1999 C280 (Engine Issue) & ABS/ESP Light
 

Strange problem, yesterday I was ready to park and go into idle when the engine started shaking violently - so much so that the entire car was shaking. I opened the hood to take a look and it looked as if the engine was trying to rock itself right out of the car. After I parked and went to dinner - came back and the problem was non existent - any ideas?

Also - The ABS/ESP light come son from time to time and when it does, I can't use the cruise control. Is this a sensor I can replace?

RE: 1999 C280 (Engine Issue) & ABS/ESP Light
 

it happens to the engine whenever there was a misfire. the control unit will shut-off the misfiring cylinder to prevent flooding of the cylinder and won't be re-activated until you re-start the car. in your case, it shuts-off at least 2 cylinders which cause the shake.
engine will be fine after restart.
do maintenance...fuel filter, sparkplugs, etc.

check your brake light switch.

it's not sensor because it is intermittent.

RE: 1999 C280 (Engine Issue) & ABS/ESP Light
 

You were right. I found instructions on how to replace the brake light switch. It took me all of 20 minutes and a screwdriver and I was able to replace it. The BAS/ESP light and the ABS lights are gone.

Thanks for your help :)

RE: 1999 C280 (Engine Issue) & ABS/ESP Light
 

you're welcome.

that seems half a year ago ;)