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.
2001 Mercedes Benz ML430FACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Pushbutton Switch (Without DAS3)
NOTE:
Drive Authorization System 3 (DAS3).
- Decelerate/Set - Connect DVOM between ME-SFI control module connector "A" terminal No. 3 (socket box terminal No. 3) and ME-SFI control module connector "D" terminal No. 21 (socket box terminal No. 53). Turn ignition on. With pushbutton switch not operated, voltage should be less than one volt. With pushbutton switch in DECELERATE position, voltage should be 11-14 volts. If voltage is within specification, go to next step. If voltage is not within specification, possible causes are wiring harness failure or variable cruise control switch (S40/4) defective. Repair as necessary.
- Memory - Connect DVOM between ME-SFI control module connector "A" terminal No. 3 (socket box terminal No. 3) and ME-SFI control module connector "D" terminal No. 22 (socket box terminal No. 54). Turn ignition on. With switch in MEMORY position, voltage should be 11-14 volts. If voltage is within specification, go to next step. If voltage is not within specification, possible causes are wiring harness failure or variable cruise control switch (S40/4) defective. Repair as necessary.
- Accelerate/Set - Connect DVOM between ME-SFI control module connector "A" terminal No. 3 (socket box terminal No. 3) and ME-SFI control module connector "D" terminal No. 20 (socket box terminal No. 52). Turn ignition on. With switch in ACCELERATE position, voltage should be 11-14 volts. If voltage is within specification, go to next step. If voltage is not within specification, possible causes are wiring harness failure or variable cruise control switch (S40/4) defective. Repair as necessary.
- Switch Off - Connect DVOM between ME-SFI control module connector "A" terminal No. 3 (socket box terminal No. 3) and ME-SFI control module connector "D" terminal No. 24 (socket box terminal No. 56). Turn ignition on. With switch not operated, voltage should be 11-14 volts. With switch in OFF position, voltage should be less than one volt. If voltage is within specification, go to next step. If voltage is not within specification, possible causes are wiring harness failure or variable cruise control switch (S40/4) defective. Repair as necessary.
- Control Switching Contact - Connect DVOM between ME-SFI control module connector "A" terminal No. 3 (socket box terminal No. 3) and ME-SFI control module connector "D" terminal No. 23 (socket box terminal No. 55). Turn ignition on. With pushbutton switch not activated, voltage should be less than one volt. With pushbutton switch in DECELERATE, ACCELERATE, SAVE or OFF positions, voltage should be 11-14 volts. If voltage is within specification, go to next step. If voltage is not within specification, possible causes are wiring harness failure or variable cruise control switch (S40/4) defective. Repair as necessary.
- Changeover Between Cruise Control & Variable Speed Limitation - Connect DVOM between ME-SFI control module connector "D" terminal No. 13 (socket box terminal No. 45) and ME-SFI control module connector "A" terminal No. 2 (socket box terminal No. 2). Turn ignition on. With switch sliding part not actuated, voltage should be less than one volt. With switch sliding part actuated, voltage should be 11-14 volts, and LED should be illuminated. If voltage is within specification, test is complete. If voltage is not within specification, possible causes are wiring harness failure or variable cruise control switch (S40/4) defective. Repair as necessary.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.