I just got my 99 E300 today so I'm a little behind the curve, but I want to learn. I do automotive restorations so I'm handy with a wrench, but I don't know squat about MBs.

The SRS light is on in the dash and the "passenger airbag off" light is illuminated on the console. I consulted the owner's manual and it says that the only way the air bag is turned off is if you're using a child restraint in the passenger seat... which I'm not. Of course it says that if the light stays illuminated you need to take it in for service.... which I'm not.

So, basically, my car evidently thinks I have a child seat installed. Since I've had a vasectomy I can't imagine ever using a child seat. Put it this way... if I end up needing a child seat, my wife has some explaining to do. How does one bypass this? (the seat sensor... not the wife) Or is it an easy fix? I want to make sure that airbag works since one of the reasons I bought her a MB is because of all the airbags and the safety they provide.

 

Go to benzworld.org w210 section.
I talked one of our members down of the ledgewith the solution and he did the diy repair.in the diy section.Faulty passenger seat sensor.He removed the seat another member did it with the seat in the car.Good luck,it takes some work,nothing major and not to much money,make sure the harness is plugged in and that no wires are broken before declaring the sensor dead.
ohlord

 

Ok, thanks for the reference.

 

Stupid question, but did you try sitting in the passenger seat to see if the light went off?

 

yeah, but goood idea