Fault Codes – Repair of Electrical Equipment of Mercedes Trucks

Truck malfunctions often occur while on the road, and it’s important to understand the meaning behind each specific error code. Unfortunately, the dashboard of trucks often only displays a list of digital fault codes without providing any description or explanation.

In the case of Mercedes trucks, such as the Actros, the digital error codes consist of five digits and follow a specific format. For example, “GS 2 3022,” where “GS” indicates the system in which the malfunction occurred, specifically the transmission control system. The subsequent digits provide information about the severity of the malfunction: “0” indicates a less serious issue, “1” signifies a serious problem that may require professional assistance or self-repair, and “2” indicates that vehicle operation is prohibited until the malfunction is resolved.

In our specific example, the error code points to a short circuit in a valve or control wiring circuit within the gearbox. This can potentially lead to the failure of the gearbox control unit, which can be costly to replace. Although the gearbox may not shift gears with this error, some individuals have found temporary solutions, such as temporarily disconnecting the battery terminals to reset the system. However, it’s important to note that this is only a temporary measure, as there is still a risk of the control unit burning out. Some malfunctions are periodic, occurring under specific circumstances such as wet weather, heavy loads, or rough road conditions. In such cases, it is advisable to promptly visit a service station and make a note of the error codes for future reference and attention.

Interpretation of the designation of some control units

  • WS / FSS Maintenance System
  • MR / PLD Injection Control System
  • BS / EPB Brake Control System
  • ABS antilock braking system
  • FR / FMR Traffic Management System
  • NR / ENR Frame Level Management System
  • INS On-board computer information system, instrument cluster
  • GS / EPS Transmission Control System
  • FLA Preheating System
  • AGN – Automatic control of commercial and \ m
  • BS – Brake System
  • EDW – Anti-theft Alarm System
  • FFB – Remote Radio Control
  • KSA – System of comfortable opening / closing
  • KOM – Communication Interface
  • MR / PLD – Engine Management System
  • PSM – Configurable special module
  • SIR – Electronic equipment right seat
  • SIL – Electronic equipment of the left sitting
  • SRS – Passive Safety System
  • TCO – tachograph
  • WS – Maintenance System
  • ZHE – Additional heating
  • ZV – Central locking

Computer diagnostics for Mercedes vehicles offers significant time savings when troubleshooting electrical components such as truck systems, engines, automatic transmissions, and brake systems. The diagnostic computer’s monitor displays a comprehensive list of error codes and malfunctions, along with operational parameters of various vehicle components. This information is compared with the vehicle’s configuration data in the database, enabling the diagnostic computer to generate an optimal troubleshooting plan.

With computer diagnostics, the following tasks can be performed:

  1. Reading and clearing errors displayed on the dashboard.
  2. Reading and clearing errors stored in the vehicle’s memory that are not shown on the instrument panel.
  3. Real-time monitoring of sensor, relay, and solenoid valve operation.
  4. Checking data transmission via the CAN bus and communication between control units.
  5. Measuring engine compression and conducting tests on injector and pump performance.
  6. Programming control units (in case of replacement) or adapting them for changes in speed limit, power, or vehicle torque.
  7. Calibrating suspension and pressure sensors, checking the turbine, and disabling urea systems.
  8. And more.

Computer diagnostics provide a comprehensive and efficient method for identifying and addressing issues in Mercedes vehicles, enhancing maintenance and repair processes while ensuring optimal performance and functionality.