Question: I have a 1997 E420 Sport AMG. The exterior temp display is lit and working but is dim. The rest of the dash display is fine. Is this just a bulb that may be out? If so, how difficult is it to replace?

Also, there's a switchnear the gear shifter that's labeled W & S. What is this and what is its function?

I'll aqppreciate any info you can give me.

 

w/s when in W car starts of in 2nd gear, this is for snow mostly so you dont spin the tires as much.....the cluster just pulls out and the bulb is replaceable but you might have to get it at a dealer. there is a tool to remove the cluster pull from both sides toward you.

 

It sounds like a DIY job. I have not replaced any bulbs myself because I am good friends with my shop and its worksers so they dont charge me on little things. I would head over to http://www.mercedesshop.com/and see if you can find a DIY for removing the instrmental cluster.

 

I have the cluster hooks and the radio/climat contro keys in a boxed set delivered for $30.Easy diy pics provided.
Bulb at dealer.If it was the dreaded dead pixel issue diy repair that sometimes works is on benzworld.org w210 diy section.

only use W in conditions that demand it.Loss of traction snow etc. as stated above.You do not want to get in the habit of always using it.Too much strain on the transmission trying to torque up to move 3700 lbs. in second gear all the time.