We just bought a 2008 Mercedes E350 yesterday with 20K miles. During the test drive, the sales guy was careful to show teh esp function...and said never to trun it off unless in the snow somewhere...Well...As we drove off the lot...the ESP light came on and would not go back off no matter how long we held the "ESP" button (per the prior instructions). After we shut the car off and restarted later...the light then stayed off ....and stayed off most of today's commute (about 40 miles). It suddenly came back on again tonight...same deal. We hope we did not get stuck with lemon. The car seems to drive the same with or without the light on....any ideas?

I guess we will be back to the dealer, but what a bummer

 

The problem is most likley the steering control module. It is kind of a common problem and MB has updated the part. Good news is you are under warrenty. I have an 07 E350 with 27k and I had to change mine. :-)

 

Thank you...that is exactly what it was....MB replaced it at no charge and we got a loaner C300 for the day. Happy!