DRL's Flickering

[Abb]

As my ML project continues, I have installed some brand new OEM DRL's (from a ML63) to my ML350.
Apart form them being slightly longer they appear to be the same, and have connected up with no issues using the original wiring/plugs.
When I start the car, they both begin to flicker (one first and then the other about 5 secs later) when they should be constant, however when I switch the side lights on, they dim (as they are supposed to) and remain constant.

Any ideas as to the cause....or even better how to fix it!

 

[ash59fifty-uk]

This is an issue I read up about when I wanted to fit some to mine, I'm sure a resistor is needed. That or the problem is you just can't have them on, it was a long time ago I was reading on the subject so I can't remember exactly

There's a HID website which has this exact problem and the solution on, it don't think they sell HID lights it only lists resources and advice

It's something to do with a constant feed issue to the DRL's

This may help~ https://www.hidplanet.com/forums/fo...d-hid-issue-fix-keep-your-drl-s-no-flickering

 

[richard]

Abb. what did you connect them to (i.e what did you replace)

Richard

 

[Abb]

Hi Richard, I just removed the original OEM DRLs and replaced them with slightly longer OEM ones. As I have replaced my original bumper with one from a ML63 and the DRLs in the 63 bumper needed to be longer, hence the swap.

 

[richard]

Did you replace the wiring in the front bumper - there seems to be specific wiring for AMG bumper for the DRLs, and i just wonder whether it has something in it.

There's nothing obvious in the wiring diagrams

It all seems rather strange ..

What happens if you swap them over (I realise they won't fit then!)

I would also check the bumper -> body connector is properly in and clean, and the ground point nut is tight. (Upper right front longitudinal ground point, wherever that may be, but probably only accessible when the bumper is off)


Richard

 

[richard]

PPS, What does "brand new OEM DRL's (from a ML63) " mean exactly. Does this mean genuine Mercedes parts ? Or a part sold as an OEM part which may well not be.

Richard

 

[Abb]

I didn't change any wiring (TBH I didnt know there was a difference), I simply had my original bumper changed for the 63 one.
Realising the DRLs were not interchangeable, I bought the required ones from my local MB dealership, to avoid any problems, or so I thought.
I will take it back to the bodyshop and get them to remove the bumper and check the connections including the ground point you mention.
I agree it seems odd, to flicker initially BUT then operate correctly when the side lights or headlights are activated.
Am trying to avoid putting in resistors in, although I believe this may correct the problem I think it should be an easier fix.
Do you know if star would show the cause of the fault?

 

[richard]

Star would possibly tell you. I wonder whether you need to update the data card to say there is the AMG body kit and then re-code the SAM - i.e whether the lights are different and the car needs to know

(edit: although the retrofit instructions do not mention this, so maybe a guess to far !!)

Richard

 

[Abb]

Just a quick update Richard, took it to my indy today, put it on star and no faults showing! He then turned the DRL's on via star accessing the SAM and they functioned correctly BUT when they were being controlled by the car, they began to flicker again.
Like yourself, he thought that updating the data card to reflect the changes carried out and then recoding the SAM would possibly resolve the issue. However, he doesn't have the facility to update the data card, so I popped over to my stealership and am waiting to hear back from them, after I explained that I needed my datacard updating.
They said they would get onto MB technical and get back to me, with costs and timeframes.
Silly question, is this a costly exercise or is it a matter of a few clicks on a keyboard??

 

[richard]

Its a bit of work, and then SCN coding. Not many can / know how to get data card update done. And there are rules (like who fitted it, is it a recognised retrofit etc)

Did you fit just the front bumper, or all of the kit ?

Richard

 

[Abb]

I have had the whole lot fitted. Front & rear bumpers, front wings, rear diffuser, front under bumper splitter, all mesh/grills etc.
All OEM parts, and with the exception of front & rear bumpers (which had no mouldings/ancillaries included) everything was purchased from my local and other MB dealerships.
The bumpers were undamaged, and required no work to be carried out, except spraying to match the colour.

Sounds like I may struggle with this datacard update

 

[Abb]

Just to close this, finally got fixed by visiting the guys at comandonline who updated my datacard and subsequently carried out the required coding.
Working as they should now