CLK Dash shows warning messages - should I buy car?

[nmk]

Looked at a 2000(W) CLK Cabriolet. Spec is pretty basic (doesn't have a centre console).

However, the dashboard showed at least 2 errors during the test drive. The first was shortly after starting up, something like "1 system error", which the seller put down to the windscreen washers???? The later error was more clear and indicated that one of the bulbs in the front light cluster was failing, although the lights appeared to be ok.

Its the first error that worries me - should I be concerned, or is it likely to be what I was told - due to the windscreen washers water being empty?

Is there a guide somewhere on the internet that explains how to diagnose the cause of the system errors, or is a main dealer the only option to get it checked?

Thanks
NMK

 

[Shude]

you could have added a litre of water to the screenwash reserviour, that would immediately cancel the warning if that's what it is.

 

[Alfie]

Looked at a 2000(W) CLK Cabriolet. Spec is pretty basic (doesn't have a centre console).

However, the dashboard showed at least 2 errors during the test drive. The first was shortly after starting up, something like "1 system error", which the seller put down to the windscreen washers???? The later error was more clear and indicated that one of the bulbs in the front light cluster was failing, although the lights appeared to be ok.

Its the first error that worries me - should I be concerned, or is it likely to be what I was told - due to the windscreen washers water being empty?

Is there a guide somewhere on the internet that explains how to diagnose the cause of the system errors, or is a main dealer the only option to get it checked?

Thanks
NMK

Walk away from the car. There will be lots of others around. Its just no worth the risk. My car tells me that the washer fluid is low but not with a 'System error'

Also, if it has no extras, especially a centre console, then I'd look elsewhere. Its the extra's on a CLK cabrio that sell it. Parktronic is an absolute must. Try parking one in a tight spot without it! you cant see a thing behind you.

Good luck,

 

[SilverSaloon]

on my CLK the dash said "WASHER LEVEL LOW" when it was, not anything else, i'd say it was a more serious fault... possibly with the cluster itself?

I'd go for a higher spec car anyway, as its easier to sell on later

 

[saorbust]

System error usually indicates that someone or something has attempted to access the ECU and tamper with it in an unauthorised manner.

Walk - no RUN away fast.

And by the way - all errors are listed in the back of the owners manual with an explanation. All normal errors anyway....

 

[Flash]

System error would never be related to "low windscreen washer level" - as Soarbust has already said it is related to something more "serious" i.e. ECU.

I would just find another car with decent options/high spec...

However, the bulb warning error could be genuine as often the warning comes up if a bulb is on it way out in advance.

 

[VBD]

Actually, 1 "System error" could very well be the windscreen washer level, ecpecially if it is totally empty, but if you scroll through on the display in the instrument cluster, to the error menu it will tell you what the error is.

But personally if the car really interests you, get the seller to sort out the faults and then have a look or ask if he will allow a professional inspection of the car.

 

[jaymanek]

Is the mileage suspiciously low?