Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
1988 Mercedes Benz 560SLFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Electronic Idle Speed Control
- Connect test cable to Bosch Lambda Control Tester (KDJE-P 600) and to idle speed air valve. Push IR 100% button. Engine should be at idle speed and operating temperature. Nominal value reading should be 27-29% at 670-770 RPM. If reading is correct, test is complete. If reading is not correct, go to next step.
- If reading is higher or lower, adjust valve to nominal value or test microswitch. If reading is 0%, test voltage at plug of idle speed air valve. Connect multimeter between socket No. 2 and ground. If reading is not correct, repair wiring circuit. Reading should be 12 volts. If reading is correct, go to next step.
- Measure resistances of idle speed air valve. Between terminals No. 2 and 3 or 2 and 1, reading should be 12 ohms. If not correct, replace idle speed air valve. If correct, test is complete.
NOTE:
If voltage at sockets No. 1 and 3 (tested individually to ground) is 12 volts, check Brown ground wire from terminal No. 20 to ECU for continuity. Repair wiring or replace ECU as necessary.
Factory Service Tools
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
