Ferrari Mailing List: Re: NFC- '98 MB CL500 Thoughts??

[AutoWorld [at] RoadRunner.com (autoworld]

FYI, on the ABS light, I recently had to troubleshoot the same problem on my
wife's MBZ of the same year. Besides the speed sensors that  Brian suggests
(at the brakes and the driveline), the ABS indicator light can also mean you
have simple things wrong like a faulty brake pedal switch, some bad bulbs in
the rear cluster (filaments getting tired), or even a bad bulb cluster
itself (looks fine, but has resistance issues). All of these items are
inexpensive and DIY projects -- if you are so inclined.

I suggest you find a local independent MBZ shop (not the dealer!) and have
them read the fault codes before you get too worried.

And check the forums. There are some good ones out there, such as
www.mbworld.org/forums/

-Bob

----- Original Message -----
From: Brian E. Buxton
To: Bob Prosser
Cc: The FerrariList
Sent: Monday, July 23, 2007 11:06 AM
Subject: Re: [Ferrari] NFC- '98 MB CL500 Thoughts??


They are very nice cars, but if I were you I'd spend a bit more and get
the last most recent CL.  I believe 2000 was the first year for them.
The ABS light could be something as simple as a brake sensor, or it
could be an issue with the ABS computer itself.  The thinking is most
likely a worn suspension part - maybe a bushing or a loose sway bar.
The a/c is the bigger problem as the ENTIRE dashboard will have to come
out in order to replace the compressor (which is 99/100 times the
problem).  Not much cost in parts but a ton in labor.  If you are
negotiating the price based on the problems you described I'd start with
$5K off.  Of course you can also negotiate the the seller fixes all of
the above problems at a mechanic of your choice, or at their dealership
if they will warranty the work and parts for a year.  Are you buying
from an individual or dealer?

BEB