How to Reset the ESP Light on a Mercedes Benz
Mercedes Benz owners often face the issue of ESP malfunction. As a result, the ABS and ESP light on Mercedes always remain turned on. Therefore, every driver should know how to reset the ESP light on a Mercedes Benz.
What Does ESP Stand for?
The complete form of ESP is the “Electronic Stability Program.” Mercedes-Benz developed this system a long time ago, even before the establishment of the Hyundai brand.
With the help of multiple sensors, it stabilizes the car during events such as over-steering, under-steering, cornering, and slipping.
The ESP helps the driver better control the steering wheel and steer the vehicle on the correct safe route. Currently, the ESP system is commonly applied to many car models on the market and is standard equipment for high-end car models. In fact, not only high-performance cars need ESP, but even normal vehicles need to be equipped with this system to ensure better road grip when going through slippery or muddy terrain. in case of sudden steering when encountering an obstacle.
The basic principle of this system is to detect if any particular wheel rotates at a faster rate than the other wheels of that car. ABS sensors monitor the rotation speed of each wheel to find out which one is rotating at a higher speed. Then, the ESP control module applies brake pressure to the faster wheel and reduces its spinning rate.
How to Reset the ESP light on a Mercedes Benz
In certain ESP light malfunction cases, the light stays switched on. It may happen because the driver hit the ESP button on the dashboard accidentally. To fix that, hold down the ESP switch for three to five seconds. Then, check if the light turns off by itself as it resets.
If pressing the switch does not reset the system, or if the light keeps flashing, there could be some problem in the ESP system. In those scenarios, call a technician or visit a repair shop to find out the issues.
Reasons for Mercedes ESP Light Malfunction
Because of the following reasons, the ESP Mercedes-Benz light may stay turned on.
1. Brake light switch
The brake switch is a part of the brake system that is also often broken and will cause the ESP light to appear along with the ABS light. The brake switch is used to detect the driver’s brake pedal signal. When the switch is faulty, you can usually look at the brake light on the rear of the car to see if the brake switch is working or see the brake system in the “Data live” section of the diagnostic device.
2. ABS wheel sensor
If the ABS wheel speed sensors fail, the ESP light will turn on. Users may need to replace a faulty sensor to reset the ESP light.
3. ABS module
The module puts a brake on the individual wheel to help the car stay on the road. An improperly working ABS module might be the reason why one may need to reset the ESP light.
4. Low battery voltage
If the old Mercedes-Benz battery is unable to supply the required voltage, ESP light malfunction may happen. Sometimes, the car battery can start the car but cannot maintain the necessary voltage once the vehicle is running. If the battery age is over 6 or 7 years, replace it.
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5. Steering angle sensor
It is in the steering column, behind the steering wheel. This sensor calculates the steering wheel angle. ESP control module uses the input from the steering angle sensor. Although it usually does not fail, it may need calibration. One can use a scanner to decode the steering angle sensor values before correcting the problem.
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FAQs
Is it safe to drive when the ESP light turns on?
ESP error is very dangerous because it directly affects the vehicle’s stability and safety. When ESP is faulty, the vehicle will more easily lose control and skid when braking suddenly or cornering. Therefore, it is necessary to fix ESP errors as soon as they are detected to ensure safety.
Do not drive when the ESP light is on. At this time, the system has a problem, the car will easily lose control and pose a danger to people in the car as well as those around. Take your car for inspection and repair as soon as you see the indicator light on.
When should the ESP system be turned off?
You should only turn off ESP in some special cases such as when driving in mud or deep snow. At this time, maintaining torque makes it easier for the vehicle to overcome terrain. In most cases, it is recommended to keep the ESP turned on for safety.
When do I need to replace the ESP sensor?
ESP should be periodically checked along with other maintenance items, about every 6-12 months. Maintenance helps detect potential errors early and prolong the life of the system. The ESP sensor should be replaced when the error indicator light is on when the sensor is damaged, less sensitive, or after a period of use of about 60,000 – 80,000 km depending on operating conditions. Replacing it will help the ESP work more accurately.
Conclusion
Now you know how to reset the ESP light on a Mercedes Benz. Try these easy solutions to reset the light. If that does not help, carefully go through the reasons and see which one might be responsible for the ESP issue.