My car, a Mercedes 1996 C280 has a check engine light on. I‘ve looked at the common problems first like checking the oil, but everything seems fine. I want to find out what the problem out myself without having to spend the money. I heard that I can input a code and the number of times the dashboard flashes is the answer, but I have no idea how to do anything like that.
It depends on what tire is blown. Most of the tires that come apart like that are recaps, and they can not be used on the front wheels. The rear wheels are duals, meaning that there are two tires next to each other. Most times the truck will continue to a safe spot (off the road) and call a tire service to replace the tire. If they are close to a service facility, they may continue to drive to get there! With a dual axle trailer, there are 8 tires in the rear (4 on each side). The trailer can travel with one flat or blown tire for a good distance.
They do this because most of the tires on these trucks are recaps (retreads). The recap blows off and leaves pieces everywhere. Some stop if they can hear the flat tire flopping around. The steer tires (front) are always new, not recaps. This is the law. The drive tires and trailer tires can be recaps. They cost about 1/2 of what a new one cost.
The trend is toward new trucks with wider trailer tires and drivers too those new designs run cooler and quieter. WE will still call 10 wheelers 18 wheelers won't we?
Call Auto Zone, or other auto parts retailers. Not sure about a Mercedes, but for most cars they will read the computer codes for you for free. It probably is a sensor for the emission control system. Good luck with it.
Try Auto Zone first. All car from 1996 on have OBD II circuitry. Probably, it's an O2 sensor, but the scanning should show this. For the DIY in you, go to a library that carries the ALLDATA data base. Everything you will ever need to know about this car is right there, including how to scan the car for trouble codes, and re-call issues. DO NOT IGNORE this,becuase you can ruin your expensive catalytic converter and exhaust system. Is this car Motronic or CIS-E III?? Your owner's manual should tell you.
