A class BAS/ESP malfunction?

[rhubarbdrewbies]

Hi there! I've got a 1999 A class and I experienced a bit of a problem this morning. While pulling away and starting to accelerate the engine momentarily hesitated and the entire instrument cluster lit up (like upon ignition) and when the car started to accelerate again the BAS/ESP warning light was still lit. It goes out when restarted but I had another episode with the momentary loss of power (and it is VERY short) and the same thing happened with the warning light. Does anyone have any suggestions where to start looking for the problem? I've been googling like someone possessed since I'm taking the family on a touring holiday on Monday!!! Any help would be greatly appreciated. TIA!

 

[GarethM]

rhubarbdrewbies

Not sure if this will apply to the A class. The BAS/ASR light came on on my CLK and it turned out to be the brake pedal switch. It didnt cause engine loss loss though.

Id check your battery terminals make sure the earth is well secured and the terminals all look fine ( its under the drivers feet from memory ). Also try turning the traction control off ( ASR ) to eliminate that from the equasion. See if you can spot a patter as to when it happends ?

Hopefully someone else will have amore definative answer but that lots worth checking .......

G

 

[rhubarbdrewbies]

Thanks for the reply! I wondered about the switch but like you say, that wouldn't explain the power loss would it? I know it's a common problem. Will check the battery tho!! Cheers!

 

[Dieselman]

The engine will lose power if the switch actually operates the brake lights momenteraly.

Check the switch is properly located before replacing it.

 

[rhubarbdrewbies]

Ah, there is DEFINITELY a fault with the brake light switch. I'd never have found it without this site, thanks for all your help!!

 

[rhubarbdrewbies]

Nope, the switch was replaced yesterday and it's still doing it. Does anyone have ANY other ideas what it may be?