E220CDi- no reverse lights

[new2merc]

Hello, this is my first post and I hope I've followed the FAQ about posting.

My problem is my 2001 W210 facelift E220CDi has no reverse lights. I've followed the threads and checked the continuity of the switch which is located on the gearbox housing. It operates when reverse gear is engaged.

There is some resistance (not a short) at the bulb housing in the boot lit, but no power.

I've checked the fuses as far as I can and it seems the reverse light is shared with the interior lights and they work.

It's really bugging me as I'm retro fitting parking sensors and obviously need reverse signal (apart from it annoying other drivers as I reverse and can't signal!).

Any help, gratefully received.

Gary

 

[Dieselman]

Are you sure the reverse light switch is on the gearbox it should be in the selector module depending on the type of selector.

On reflection I take it the car has a manual gearbox so the switch is on the gearbox. In that case it sounds like a wiring fault.

 

[new2merc]

Thanks for your reply and you're correct about it being a manual gearbox, I should have mentioned that in my post.

I've read in other threads that the reverse light feeds into the rear SAM (?). Do you have any pointers on its location as most of the boot space wires disappear under the rear seats or into the side skirts.

 

[lynall]

Has it got a towing socket? possibly dodgy connection.
I didnt think 210 had a rear sam unit




Lynall

 

[new2merc]

There isn't a towing socket yet, but I will need to wire one up at some point so the reverse signal will be needed.

Apologies if I've got the rear SAM bit wrong, it's just what I've picked up on the various threads. Any ideas on where I'd find the rear SAM or what it looks like?

I really appreciate the replies, thanks.

 

[Dieselman]

No rear SAM, just a rear fusebox.
I can't see the reverse lights being controlled by a relay anyway so just check the feed to the lights and the switch.

 

[berriman9]

w210 reversing light issue

I too have a problem with reversing light not working, usually after about 20 mins running. Also rear wiper does not operate when front wiper on and reverse selected. Car is Jan 2003 automatic.