[Vwdiesel] "new"1997 MB E300D

[Doyt W. Echelberger]

"The connector must be located within three feet of the driver and must not 
require any tools to be revealed. Look under the dash and behind ashtrays." 
Thus reads  rules for all manufacturers from 1996 
on.  http://www.obdii.com/obdii.html

I'd look under the dash, near the e-brake, and expect a cover that could be 
opened by hand.

My experience is that only MB dealers are equipped to fully benefit from 
OBD2  readouts.

I am driving a 2000 MB E320 gasser (now at 190,000 miles.) Not diesel, but 
also with all the bells and whistles.  I totally agree on your "bells and 
whistles" risk assessment. The engine isn't one of the weak points and your 
diesel is far less trouble-prone than my gasser.
I carry spare headlight and tail light bulbs.
My most troublesome and expensive experience has been in the electronics 
category....specifically the electronic stability system and associated 
motion sensors. Replacing just one sensor...the linear acceleration sensor 
located midline on the transmission....cost $1,500 for the part and about 
that much for labor to tow to a dealer, diagnose, tear down, replace, and 
then re-program the computer. Car was down for two weeks waiting for part 
from Germany. When the sensor failed, the most disabling feature of the 
failure was the automatic transmission locking up in second
  with no reverse. Try finishing your trip under those conditions!  My 
advice is carry a generous and comprehensive insurance policy that covers 
towing to nearest dealer, and all parts and services including the 
computers and tranny...AND a very thick wallet.
Expect to go home in a rental car.

But I'm not complaining. The only other car that drove and handled as well 
was my 87 Audi 5000 Turbo Quattro. I couldn't find anything that matched it 
when the car passed 300,000 miles. My MB has been worth all the costs of 
ownership. I do keep a spare 1989 VW diesel Jetta in the driveway, but the 
ride is pretty harsh compared to the MB.

Diesel on!

Doyt
 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
At 09:51 AM 5/19/2012, you wrote:
>Just bought a 1997 Mercedes e300 diesel..... car is a 1997 USA spec model 
>it should be equipped with an OBD 2 port. Does anyone know where it is 
>located? Some of you others may have some experience with this car. What, 
>based on your experience, should I look out for? The PO moved from St 
>George, Utah to Grass Valley, CA about 6 months ago & from he had lots of 
>receipts from the MB servicing dealer in Las Vages, the nearest dealer & 
>it looks like the car spent lots of time at that dealer waiting for parts. 
>I am planning to drive back to Minn. leaving just after Memorial day so am 
>wondering what spare parts I should take beyond some fuel, oil, & air filters.
>Bill Toensing, Nevada City, CA