There is a fault with the Parktronic PTS system in the W208.

[Dudeta]

For some months, I have been diligently attempting to resolve this problem on behalf of my father. However, the several garages and diagnostic results have only served to perplex us more.

I am contacting you in the hope that someone among you has the expertise that none of the Mercedes-Benz professionals I have consulted has, to resolve a seemingly straightforward inquiry.

The problem:

The W208 convertible owned by Dad is equipped with factory-installed parking sensors both at the front and back of the vehicle. They ceased their job. After undergoing a diagnostic procedure, it was determined that:

The Control Module N62 is defective.

Purchased a used module as a backup, with the assurance that it is ready to use and the component numbers are same. After the first attempt failed, I proceeded to get it examined. The diagnostic results indicated that all 10 sensors and the module are reporting the same issue.

A43b10 (Left outside sensor, rear bumper): The plug connection exhibits inadequate contact or is loose, or there is a defect in the sensor or cable. A log is created for each sensor to document this error.

Furthermore

The Control Module N62 is defective.

I returned to the vendor, who assured me that the item need coding.

Although the code data was successfully transferred from the previous data, the problem still persists.

We rectify the error, yet it subsequently reoccurs. My anticipation was in line with that outcome.

Purchased a second item and had the same problem.

I am aware that both devices are susceptible to water infiltration via the front water drain. Therefore, it is possible that both units are defective. However, in order to maintain my mental well-being, I have two specific questions for your members:

1) Is it necessary to code the Parktronic control module? If the original module is defective, such as in my situation, how can its data be replicated onto the new module? The procedure is said to be effective, but I am curious to understand the underlying mechanisms.

2) Is Xentry necessary for good coding, or may any high-end system suffice?

We have tested four diagnostic systems and all have shown identical results. A walk test, also known as actuation, demonstrates the functionality of the internal displays, but does not provide any graphical data from the sensors located at the front or rear.

Is it possible that there is damage to the wire loom? If such were the case, the communications would certainly not function, identify, resolve, and subsequently rediscover the problem.

I am perplexed. Although it is possible to manage without sensors, the presence of sensors is necessary due to the fact that my father, who is 81 years old, has a limited parking space. I do not want to inconvenience him much.

Seeking assistance since I have exhausted all my thoughts.

The car is a W208 320 equipped with the factory-installed AMG 430 body package. Despite her advanced age, we have a deep affection for her.

Thank you in advance.

[Boxck]

To identify the issue, it may be necessary to remove the rear bumper.

[Dudeta]

We performed a hand inspection of each of the 10 sensors to identify any signs of corrosion or other damage.

Today, to exacerbate the situation:

The Main Dealer informed me that the Parktronic system is a unit that can only be programmed once and cannot be transferred between other cars.

An impartial individual informed me that the devices in question are easily installed and need no further configuration. Furthermore, this person has successfully installed similar devices on several occasions in the past. There is no need for any coding.

Another autonomous individual informs me that their chief technician concurs that the aforementioned items are initially programmed just for MBenz vehicles. However, with sufficient time and exertion, they may be reprogrammed to function with the vehicle from which they were obtained.

I am perplexed and fatigued. It is possible that I have two defective units. Pure misfortune.

I was seeking assistance from someone on this platform who has experienced a similar situation and had the knowledge to provide a solution. I will exercise patience, anticipating that they will arrive within a short period of time.

[Boxck]

While these gadgets may provide enjoyment when added to a luxury automobile, their failure may be a source of frustration and inconvenience.
Have you inspected for a blown fuse and a potential malfunctioning relay?
Prior to purchasing any components, it is imperative that you thoroughly inspect everything.

Dealerships lack expertise in older automobiles, since their technicians mostly focus on newer models and possess little understanding of vintage vehicles.

[Dudeta]

Thank you for your prompt response. I appreciate your time and effort in replying.

The possibility of a blown fuse was eliminated, since otherwise, the replacement or original parktronic unit would not be able to communicate or be detected by the diagnostic kit. Based on the successful results of the actuation tests, I have a suspicion that the issue is with the relay.

I am confused by the conflicting information provided by two different garages. One garage claims that they have successfully replaced various auto parts using a plug and play method, while the other garage states that certain parts are specifically programmed by Mercedes-Benz and cannot be copied or reprogrammed to another vehicle.

As an IT professional, I am fascinated by these difficulties and I believe that this particular one will be straightforward once resolved.

My wife is delighted because she believes I will sell the vehicle, particularly since Mr. Khan, the mayor of London, is expanding the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) to outside London in August. This car travelled around 500 miles last year and is expected to go a similar distance this year. Therefore, it seems inappropriate to dispose of or sell it to someone from a northern region, considering that we have had it for 17 years. Provide a gentleman with a little amount of summer enjoyment.

on the event that I discover the solution, I will promptly post it on this forum. Additionally, if any individuals had prior expertise in replacing a unit, their insights might potentially expedite the process and save me a significant amount of time.

Fortunately, mortgage rates are gradually decreasing on a weekly basis 😊

[Boxck]

Is this the extent of your efforts to address the issues, but it did not prove effective?

Scanning codes - attempting to clear the codes did not resolve the issue.
After disassembling the front and back bumper and inspecting the cables and sensors individually, no solution was found.
Purchasing a pre-owned PTS relay did not resolve the issue.
Inspecting for a blown fuse in the engine area - no problem was detected.
Inspecting the relays in the fuse box located in the engine compartment revealed no problems.

Have you seen any signs of wireloom damage caused by vermin, resulting in a short circuit in the PTS system?

Could it be that one of the PTS modules is malfunctioning or that some of the sensors are experiencing issues?

[Dudeta]

Yes, I have thoroughly inspected for any damage caused by squirrels or rodents, and I have also individually cleaned and examined each sensor.

One question that has intrigued me is if the diagnostic kit can detect whether the parktronic module is faulty or if the problem is with the wiring harness. Typically, when a sensor malfunctions, it exhibits consistent symptoms: red bars and beeping, followed by the PS switch becoming red and finally turning off. If the loom was faulty, it may potentially exhibit similar behaviour. However, it is important to note that in such a case, the mistake would likely be attributed to sensor issues rather than the module itself. Causing me extreme frustration, as you can see. Attached is a fresh diagnostic picture.

The primary dealer has not responded to three phone calls about two inquiries.

The cost of a new Parktronic module.
2) Is coding required for this and if so, what is the associated cost?

They promised to respond to me. I will not wait with anticipation.

However, I am determined to finally resolve this matter since I am fully committed to uncovering the truth:

1) Single-instance programming by MB
2) It is feasible to reprogram.
3) Interchangeable parts that can be easily connected and used without any further configuration or setup.

I will save others the effort by providing the solution. I have been informed that the identical module is used in the E and C class, therefore this problem is not exclusive to the CLK model.

[AmericaMonster]

Did you ultimately resolve the problem?

[Dudeta]

Regrettably, the desired outcome has not been achieved at this time.

I am now having the wire harness traced (on the side of the sensors) from the Parktronic Module connection to all 10 sensors. Most likely throughout the weekend. I will provide an update about their conclusion.

[Boxck]

I hope my post-traumatic stress (PTS) doesn't cause any complications or problems.

If the 12V power supply fails to activate the PTS module upon turning the ignition ON, it is very probable that the module has been damaged or become inoperable.

[Mezuzzi]

Greetings
The control unit of a 208 does not need coding and may be easily installed by just plugging it in. If the automobile was not originally equipped with the mentioned feature and it was added later, then the car itself, rather than the control unit, would need coding. In this period of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, coding was primarily used to instruct the diagnostic system to search for and scan the control unit.
I am almost certain that you have a defective wiring harness.
If the object in question belonged to me, I would inspect the main plug located behind the bumpers for any signs of damage on each of the wiring harnesses. I would then apply contact cleaner generously to these areas.
Additionally, attempt to decipher the codes by disconnecting each loom one at a time, carefully observing any variations in the behaviour of the display lights.

[Wordcar]

Can you confirm with absolute certainty that the component numbers are identical? various component numbers correspond to variations in the wiring of the sensors to various pins. It may be advisable to consult Mercedes components to determine the accurate part number for the automobile. It is possible that the item has been previously replaced and the external casing does not match the inside circuit board. To verify whether it corresponds, you might perhaps connect your original device and get the component number from the diagnostic machine.
 

[AmericaMonster]

The Parktronic System (PTS) is causing significant inconvenience on my W204 Mercedes. The diagnostic report indicates that the issue lies with the white PST module located under the passenger footwell. I have already replaced this module twice, but the problem persists. Therefore, I will need to inspect the wiring harness and sensors to identify any potential faults. The same issue is also present in my W208.
 

[Dudeta]

Although no one explicitly confirmed their lack of requirement for coding, I was certain that it must be true. Currently, I own a total of 5 control units, all of which are non-functional. All corresponding component numbers. All of them are of the same age and model. All of them claimed to originate from a functional donor car.

Although I have removed all 10 sensors from the front and back, inspected them for any damage (none discovered), and thoroughly cleaned and reinstalled them, the issue remains unresolved. I will now attempt to trace the wiring harness from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to the front and back bumpers.

I find it puzzling that I am able to do the actuation test to toggle the two front and single rear displays, but I am unable to execute the 10 sensor test using the diagnostic hardware. However, I believe that the loom consists of two components:

1) Energy and Visual Output
2) Sensor devices

All indications lead to the sensor harness.

The day will be enjoyable, but the experience is justified by the deep affection we all have for our beloved Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

The Mayor, Mr. Khan, has sent me an email informing me that the scrappage price is £2000. Declining the offer. I like to pay a fee of £12.50 each journey and use her services throughout the warmer months. She costs £500 per year and remains dependable while yet attracting attention.

Thank you for the advice and for taking the time to help me. 😊

[Dudeta]

The system is installed at the factory, and because the footwear and plate were securely in place, I am quite certain, with a 99.9% certainty, that it has not been internally changed. This leaves me with a misleading case and component number. Attached are the images of the ones I own. Impressive assortment. I have also examined the original component number and found a correlation.

My area of expertise is in the loom. As there is no precipitation today, we will see if my perseverance and the assistance of everyone provide positive results.

Please extend your kind wishes for my success.

[Dudeta]

I empathise with your suffering Mr. Wordcar, do not surrender!