2006 MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER ECO mode

(1) Disconnect the negative battery cable.
(2) Drain the cooling system.
(3) Record the location and snip the wire ties.
(4) Unscrew the engine block heater from the core
plug hole and remove (Fig. 6).
INSTALLATION
(1) Screw the block heater into the core hole (Fig.
6).
(2) Route the heater wiring harness away from
and interference and secure with wiring tie straps.
(3) Refill the cooling system.
(4) Connect the negative battery cable.
(5) Start the engine and inspect for leaks.
ENGINE COOLANT TEMP SEN-
SOR
DESCRIPTION
The ECM determines the operating temperature of
the engine by using the signal from the coolant tem-
perature sensor. The coolant temperature sensor has
a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) resistor
contained in the plastic housing. NTC means; the
higher the temperature, then the lower the resis-
tance. The ECM also uses the coolant temperature
sensor signal to calculate glow plug relay triggering.
If the coolant temperature sensor fails during opera-
tion, the ECM will switch on the cooling fan to pre-
vent engine overheating (A/C models only).
REMOVAL
WARNING: Risk of injury to skin and eyes from
scalding with hot coolant. Risk of poisoning from
swallowing coolant. Do not open cooling system
unless coolant temperature is below 90ÉC. Open
cap slowly to release pressure. Store coolant in
suitable and appropriately marked container. Wear
protective gloves, clothes and eye wear.
(1) Disconnect negative battery cable.
(2) Remove engine cover (Refer to 9 - ENGINE -
REMOVAL).
(3) Partailly drain coolant system (Refer to 7 -
COOLING/ENGINE/COOLANT - STANDARD PRO-
CEDURE).
(4) Unplug coolant temperature sensor electrical
connector.
NOTE: Capture any residual coolant that may flow.
(5) Remove coolant temperature sensor (Fig. 7).
INSTALLATION
WARNING: Risk of injury to skin and eyes from
scalding with hot coolant. Risk of poisoning from
swallowing coolant. Do not open cooling system
unless coolant temperature is below 90ÉC (194ÉF).
Open cap slowly to release pressure. store coolant
in suitable and appropriately marked container.
Wear protective gloves, clothes and eye wear.
(1) Position and install coolant temperature sensor
(Fig. 7).
(2) Connect coolant temperature sensor electrical
connector (Fig. 7).
Fig. 6 ENGINE BLOCK HEATER
1 - ENGINE BLOCK HEATER
2 - CORE PLUG
3 - ENGINE MOUNT
4 - WIRING TIE STRAPS
Fig. 7 ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR
1 - RETAINING CLAMP
2 - ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR
VAENGINE 7 - 15

ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
CENTRAL TIMER MODULE
DESCRIPTION..........................1
OPERATION............................1
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CENTRAL TIMER
MODULE.............................2
REMOVAL.............................2
INSTALLATION..........................3
CONTROLLER ANTILOCK BRAKE
DESCRIPTION..........................3
REMOVAL.............................3INSTALLATION..........................3
ENGINE CONTROL MODULE
DESCRIPTION..........................3
REMOVAL.............................6
INSTALLATION..........................6
TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE
DESCRIPTION..........................6
OPERATION............................7
STANDARD PROCEDURE - TCM ADAPTATION . 10
CENTRAL TIMER MODULE
DESCRIPTION
The central timer module (CTM) is located beneath
the driver seat. The CTM uses information carried on
the programmable communications interface (PCI)
data bus network along with many hard wired inputs
to monitor many sensor and switch inputs. In
response to those inputs, the circuitry and program-
ming of the CTM allow it to supply the vehicle occu-
pants with audible and visual information, and to
control and integrate many functions and features of
the vehicle through both hard wired outputs and the
transmission of message outputs to other modules in
the vehicle over the PCI data bus.
The features that the CTM supports or controls
include the following:
²Central Locking- The CTM on vehicles
equipped with the optional Vehicle Theft Security
System (VTSS) includes a central locking/unlocking
feature.
²Enhanced Accident Response- The CTM pro-
vides an optional enhanced accident response fea-
ture. This is a programmable feature.
²Panic Mode- The CTM provides support for
the optional RKE system panic mode including horn,
headlamp, and park lamp flash features.
²Power Lock Control- The CTM provides the
optional power lock system features, including sup-
port for the automatic door lock and door lock inhibit
modes.
²Programmable Features- The CTM provides
support for certain programmable features.
²Remote Keyless Entry- The CTM provides
the optional Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system fea-
tures, including support for the RKE Lock (with
optional horn and park lamps flash), Unlock (with
park lamps flash, driver-door-only unlock, andunlock-all-doors), Panic, and illuminated entry
modes, as well as the ability to be programmed to
recognize up to four RKE transmitters. The RKE
horn, driver-door-only unlock, and unlock-all-doors
features are programmable.
²Vehicle Theft Security System- The CTM
provides control of the optional Vehicle Theft Secu-
rity System (VTSS) features, including support for
the central locking/unlocking mode and control of the
Security indicator in the instrument cluster.
Hard wired circuitry connects the CTM to the elec-
trical system of the vehicle. Refer to the appropriate
wiring information.
Many of the features in the vehicle controlled or
supported by the CTM are programmable using the
DRBIIItscan tool. However, if any of the CTM hard-
ware components are damaged or faulty, the entire
CTM unit must be replaced. The hard wired inputs
or outputs of all CTM versions can be diagnosed
using conventional diagnostic tools and methods;
however, for diagnosis of the CTM or the PCI data
bus, the use of a DRBIIItscan tool is required. Refer
to the appropriate diagnostic information.
OPERATION
The central timer module (CTM) monitors many
hard wired switch and sensor inputs as well as those
resources it shares with other modules in the vehicle
through its communication over the programmable
communications interface (PCI) data bus network.
The internal programming and all of these inputs
allow the CTM to determine the tasks it needs to
perform and their priorities, as well as both the stan-
dard and optional features that it should provide.
The CTM then performs those tasks and provides
those features through both PCI data bus communi-
cation with other modules and hard wired outputs
through a number of driver circuits, relays, and
VAELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES 8E - 1

INSTALLATION
(1) Position the central timer module in the vehicle
(2) Connect the wire harness connectors to the
central timer module.
(3) Install the screws that secure the central timer
module. Tighten the screws securely.
(4) Route the seat belt latch wire lead through the
hole in the closeout panel and position the panel
beneath the driver seat cushion
(5) Install the screws that secure the closeout
panel beneath the driver seat cushion. Tighten the
screws securely.
(6) Connect the wire harness connector to the seat
belt latch connector.
(7) Slide the driver seat to back to its original posi-
tion.
(8) Reconnect the negative battery cable.
CONTROLLER ANTILOCK
BRAKE
DESCRIPTION
The Controler Antilock Brake (CAB) is mounted to
the Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) and operates the
ABS system.
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the negative battery cable from the
battery.
(2) Pull up on the CAB harness connector release
and remove connector.
(3) Remove the CAB mounting bolts.
(4) Remove the CAB from the HCU.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install CAB to the HCU.
(2) Install mounting bolts. Tighten to 2 N´m (16 in.
lbs.).
(3) Install the wiring harness connector to the
CAB and push down on the release to secure the con-
nector.
(4) Install negative battery cable to the battery.
ENGINE CONTROL MODULE
DESCRIPTION
The electronic control module (ECM) is mounted to
the left lower dash panel and consists of an electronic
printed circuit board which is designed as a milliliter
board assembly fitted on both sides. The routing of
the wiring harness connector at the ECM connector
are split into interfering cables and sensitive cables
in order to achieve improved electromagnetic compat-
ibility. The smaller wiring harness connector is used
for the vehicle wiring harness and the larger harness
is used for the engine wiring harness. The ECM
stores engine specific data, monitors the connected
sensor and analyzes their measurement (Fig. 2).
Its task consists in controlling the following sys-
tems in line with the analysis of the input signals:
²Fuel Supply System
²Injected Quantity Control
²Emission Control System
²Charge Pressure Control
²Cruise Control
²A/C Compressor Shut-Off
²Pre-Heating Output Relay for the Glow Plugs
²Vehicle Theft
²Air Bag
²Monitors inputs/outputs, checks plausibility and
stores faults
²Share information with other control modules
²Diagnosis
If a sensor should fail, provided the fault is not
serious, the ECM will continue to operate the engine
in Limp-Home Mode (emergency mode) using a
default value for the missing signal. The ECM
ensures that, continuing to operate the engine will
not cause damage or effect safety, otherwise a Engine
shut-off process will be carried out (Fig. 3).Fig. 1 Central Timer Module
1 - DRIVER SEAT
2 - WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR
3 - SCREW (2)
4 - CLOSEOUT PANEL
5 - CENTRAL TIMER MODULE
6 - WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR (2)
7 - SCREW (2)
VAELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES 8E - 3

²Position of selector lever.
²Selected shift range.
²CAN signals.
²Engine Status.
Engine speed limits may be reached in all gears
with full throttle or in kick-down operation. In for-
ward driving, the shift range of the forward gears
can be adjusted by the operator by tipping the selec-
tor lever to the left or right (AutoStick). However, the
TCM features a downshift inhibitor to prevent the
engine from overspeeding.
OPERATION
The transmission control module (TCM) deter-
mines the current operating conditions of the vehicle
and controls the shifting process for shift comfort and
driving situations. It receives this operating data
from sensors and broadcast messages from other
modules.
The TCM uses inputs from several sensors that are
directly hardwired to the controller and it uses sev-
eral indirect inputs that are used to control shifts.
This information is used to actuate the proper sole-
noids in the valve body to achieve the desired gear.
The shift lever assembly (SLA) has several items
that are monitored by the TCM to calculate shift
lever position. The reverse light switch, an integral
part of the SLA, controls the reverse light relay con-
trol circuit. The Brake/Transmission Shift Interlock
(BTSI) solenoid and the park lockout solenoid (also
part of the SLA) are controlled by the TCM.
The ECM and ABS broadcast messages over the
controller area network (CAN C) bus for use by the
TCM. The TCM uses this information, with other
inputs, to determine the transmission operating con-
ditions.
The TCM:
²determines the momentary operating conditions
of the vehicle.
²controls all shift processes.
²considers shift comfort and the driving situation.
The TCM controls the solenoid valves for modulat-
ing shift pressures and gear changes. Relative to the
torque being transmitted, the required pressures are
calculated from load conditions, engine rpm, vehicle
speed, and ATF temperature.
The following functions are contained in the TCM:
²Shift Program
²Downshift Safety
²Torque Converter Lock-Up Clutch.
²Adaptation.
This transmission does not have a TCM relay.
Power is supplied to the SLA and the TCM directly
from the ignition.
The TCM continuously checks for electrical prob-
lems, mechanical problems, and some hydraulic prob-
lems. When a problem is sensed, the TCM stores a
diagnostic trouble code (DTC). Some of these codescause the transmission to go into ªLimp-Inº or
ªdefaultº mode. Some DTCs cause permanent
Limp-In and others cause temporary Limp-In. The
NAG1 defaults in the current gear position if a DTC
is detected, then after a key cycle the transmission
will go into Limp-in, which is mechanical 2nd gear.
Some DTCs may allow the transmission to resume
normal operation (recover) if the detected problem
goes away. A permanent Limp-In DTC will recover
when the key is cycled, but if the same DTC is
detected for three key cycles the system will not
recover and the DTC must be cleared from the TCM
with the DRBIIItscan tool.
TCM SIGNALS
The TCM registers one part of the input signals by
direct inputs, the other part by CAN C bus. In addi-
tion to the direct control of the actuators, the TCM
sends various output signals by CAN C bus to other
control modules.
Selector Lever Position
The TCM monitors the SLA for all shift lever posi-
tions via the CAN bus.
ATF Temperature Sensor
The ATF temperature sensor is a positive temper-
ature co-efficient (PTC) thermistor. It measures the
temperature of the transmission fluid and is a direct
input signal for the TCM. The temperature of the
ATF has an influence on the shifttime and resulting
shift quality. As the temperature rises, resistance
rises, and therefore, the probing voltage is decreas-
ing. Because of its registration, the shifting process
can be optimized in all temperature ranges.
The ATF temperature sensor is wired in series
with the park/neutral contact. The temperature sig-
nal is transmitted to the TCM only when the reed
contact of the park/neutral contact is closed because
the TCM only reads ATF temperature while in any
forward gear, or REVERSE. When the transmission
is in PARK or NEUTRAL, the TCM will substitute
the engine temperature for the ATF temperature.
Starter Interlock
The TCM monitors a contact switch wired in series
with the transmission temperature sensor to deter-
mine PARK and NEUTRAL positions. The contact
switch is open in PARK and NEUTRAL. The TCM
senses transmission temperature as high (switch
supply voltage), confirming switch status as open.
The TCM then broadcasts a message over CAN bus
to confirm switch status. The PCM receives this
information and allows operation of the starter cir-
cuit.
VAELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES 8E - 7

little longer before the next upshift. If the driving
style is still aggressive, the shift point is modified up
to ten steps. If the driving returns to normal, then
the shift point modification also returns to the base
position.
This adaptation has no memory. The adaptation to
driving style is nothing more than a shift point mod-
ification meant to assist an aggressive driver. The
shift points are adjusted for the moment and return
to base position as soon as the inputs are controlled
in a more rational manner.
Shift Time Adaptation (Shift Overlap Adaptation, Working
Pressure)
Shift time adaptation is the ability of the TCM to
electronically alter the time it takes to go from one
gear to another. Shift time is defined as the time it
takes to disengage one shift member while another is
being applied. Shift time adaptation is divided into
four categories:
1. Accelerating upshift, which is an upshift under
a load. For shift time adaptation for the 1-2 upshift
to take place, the transmission must shift from 1st to
2nd in six different engine load ranges vs. transmis-
sion output speed ranges.
2. Decelerating upshift, which is an upshift under
no load. This shift is a rolling upshift and is accom-
plished by letting the vehicle roll into the next gear.
3. Accelerating downshift, which is a downshift
under load. This shift can be initiated by the throttle,
with or without kickdown. The shift selector can also
be used.
4. Decelerating downshift, which is accomplished
by coasting down. As the speed of the vehicle
decreases, the transmission downshifts.
Fill Pressure Adaptation (Apply Pressure Adaptation, Modu-
lating Pressure)
Fill pressure adaptation is the ability of the TCM
to modify the pressure used to engage a shift mem-
ber. The value of this pressure determines how firm
the shift will be.
²If too much pressure is used, the shift will be
hard.
²If too little pressure is used, the transmission
may slip.
The pressure adjustment is needed to compensate
for the tolerances of the shift pressure solenoid valve.
The amount the solenoid valve opens as well as how
quickly the valve can move, has an effect on the pres-
sure. The return spring for the shift member pro-
vides a resistance that must be overcome by the
pressure in order for shift member to apply. These
return springs have slightly different values. This
also affects the application pressure and is compen-
sated for by fill pressure adaptation.Fill Time Adaptation (Engagement Time Adaptation)
Fill time is the time it takes to fill the piston cav-
ity and take up any clearances for a friction element
(clutch or brake). Fill time adaptation is the ability of
the TCM to modify the time it takes to fill the shift
member by applying a preload pressure.
CONTROLLER MODES OF OPERATION
Permanent Limp - In Mode
When the TCM determines there is a non-recover-
able condition present that does not allow proper
transmission operation, it places the transmission in
permanent Limp-In Mode. When the condition occurs
the TCM turns off all solenoids as well as the sole-
noid supply output circuit. If this occurs while the
vehicle is moving, the transmission remains in the
current gear position until the ignition is turned off
or the shifter is placed in the ªPº position. When the
shifter has been placed in ªP,º the transmission only
allows 2nd gear operation. If this occurs while the
vehicle is not moving, the transmission only allows
operation in 2nd gear.
Temporary Limp - In Mode
This mode is the same as the permanent Limp-In
Mode except if the condition is no longer present, the
system resumes normal operation.
Under Voltage Limp - In Mode
When the TCM detects that system voltage has
dropped below 8.5 volts, it disables voltage-depen-
dant diagnostics and places the transmission in the
temporary Limp-In Mode. When the TCM senses
that the voltage has risen above 9.0 volts, normal
transmission operation is resumed.
Hardware Error Mode
When the TCM detects a major internal error, the
transmission is placed in the permanent Limp-In
Mode and ceases all communication over the CAN
bus. When the TCM has entered this mode normal
transmission operation does not resume until all
DTCs are cleared from the TCM.
Loss of Drive
If the TCM detects a situation that has resulted or
may result in a catastrophic engine or transmission
problem, the transmission is placed in the neutral
position. Improper Ratio, Input Sensor Overspeed or
Engine Overspeed DTCs cause the loss of drive.
Controlled Limp - in Mode
When a failure does not require the TCM to shut
down the solenoid supply, but the failure is severe
enough that the TCM places the transmission into a
VAELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES 8E - 9

predefined gear, there are several shift performance
concerns. For instance, if the transmission is slip-
ping, the controller tries to place the transmission
into 3rd gear and maintain 3rd gear for all forward
drive conditions.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - TCM ADAPTATION
The adaptation procedure requires the use of the
appropriate scan tool. This program allows the elec-
tronic transmission system to re-calibrate itself. This
will provide the proper baseline transmission opera-
tion. The adaptation procedure should be performed
if any of the following procedures are performed:
²Transmission Assembly Replacement
²Transmission Control Module Replacement
²Clutch Plate and/or Seal Replacement
²Electrohydraulic Unit Replacement or Recondi-
tion
(1) With the scan tool, reset the Transmission
adaptives. Resetting the adaptives will set the adap-
tives to factory settings.
NOTE: Perform the Coast Down Adaptations first.
The Transmission Temperature must be greater
than 60ÉC (140ÉF) and less than 70ÉC (158ÉF). Fail-
ure to stay within these temperature ranges will
void the procedure.
(2) Drive the vehicle until the transmission tem-
perature is in the specified range.
(3) Perform 4 to 5 coast downs from 5th to 4th
gear and then 4th to 3rd gear.
NOTE: For Upshift adaptation, the Transmission
temperature must be greater than 60ÉC (140ÉF) and
less than 100ÉC (212ÉF). Failure to stay within these
temperature ranges will void this procedure.
(4) From a stop, moderately accelerate the vehicle
and obtain all forward gear ranges while keeping the
Engine RPM below 1800 RPM. Repeat this procedure
4 to 5 times.
(5) Obtaining 5th gear may be difficult at 1800
RPM. Allow the transmission to shift into 5th gear at
a higher RPM then lower the RPM to 1800 and per-
form manual shifts between 4th and 5th gears using
the shift lever.
(6) The TCM will store the adaptives every 10
minutes. After completion of the adaptation proce-
dure make sure the vehicle stays running for at least
10 minutes.
(7) It is possible to manually store the adaptives
under the 10 minute time frame using the DRBIIIt
Store Adaptives procedure.
8E - 10 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULESVA

ENGINE SYSTEMS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
BATTERY SYSTEM......................... 1
CHARGING SYSTEM....................... 17STARTING SYSTEM....................... 28
BATTERY SYSTEM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
BATTERY SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION..........................1
OPERATION............................2
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY
SYSTEM.............................2
CLEANING.............................5
INSPECTION...........................6
SPECIAL TOOLS
BATTERY SYSTEM SPECIAL TOOLS.......6
BATTERY
DESCRIPTION..........................6
OPERATION............................7
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY.......7
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - BATTERY
CHARGING...........................8
STANDARD PROCEDURE - OPEN-CIRCUIT
VOLTAGE TEST........................9
STANDARD PROCEDURE - IGNITION-OFF
DRAW TEST.........................10
STANDARD PROCEDURE - USING MICRO
420 BATTERY TESTER.................11
STANDARD PROCEDURE - CHECKING
BATTERY ELECTROLYTE LEVEL.........12REMOVAL
UNDER HOOD BATTERY REMOVAL.......12
AUXILIARY BATTERY REMOVAL..........13
INSTALLATION
UNDER HOOD BATTERY INSTALLATION . . . 13
AUXILIARY BATTERY INSTALLATION......13
BATTERY HOLDDOWN
DESCRIPTION.........................13
REMOVAL.............................13
INSTALLATION.........................14
BATTERY CABLES
DESCRIPTION.........................14
OPERATION...........................14
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY
CABLES............................14
REMOVAL.............................16
INSTALLATION.........................16
BATTERY TRAY
DESCRIPTION.........................16
OPERATION...........................16
REMOVAL.............................16
INSTALLATION.........................16
BATTERY SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION
A single 12-volt battery is standard factory-in-
stalled equipment on this model. Some vehicles are
equipped with a second auxiliary battery for running
additional electrical equipment. The standard battery
is located in the engine compartment, while the aux-
iliary battery (if equipped) is located under the pas-
sengers front seat. The battery system for this
vehicle covers the following related components,
which are covered in further detail later in this sec-
tion of the service manual:²Battery- The 12v storage battery(s) provides a
reliable means of storing a renewable source of elec-
trical energy within the vehicle.
²Battery Cables- The battery cables connect
the battery terminal posts to the vehicle electrical
system.
²Battery Holddown- The battery holddown
hardware secures the battery in the battery tray in
the engine compartment.
²Battery Tray- The battery tray provides a
secure mounting location in the vehicle for the bat-
tery and an anchor point for the battery holddown
hardware.
VAENGINE SYSTEMS 8F - 1

INSPECTION
The following information details the recommended
inspection procedures for the battery and related
components. In addition to the maintenance sched-
ules found in this service manual and the owner's
manual, it is recommended that these procedures be
performed any time the battery or related compo-
nents must be removed for vehicle service.
(1) Inspect the battery cable terminal clamps for
damage. Replace any battery cable that has a dam-
aged or deformed terminal clamp.
(2) Inspect the battery tray and battery holddown
hardware for damage. Replace any damaged parts.
(3) Slide the thermal guard off of the battery case,
if equipped. Inspect the battery case for cracks or
other damage that could result in electrolyte leaks.
Also, check the battery terminal posts for looseness.
Batteries with damaged cases or loose terminal posts
must be replaced.
(4) Inspect the battery thermal guard for tears,
cracks, deformation or other damage. Replace any
battery thermal guard that has been damaged.
(5) Inspect the battery built-in test indicator sight
glass for an indication of the battery condition. If the
battery is discharged, charge as required. (Refer to 8
- ELECTRICAL/BATTERY SYSTEM/BATTERY -
STANDARD PROCEDURE).
SPECIAL TOOLS
BATTERY SYSTEM SPECIAL TOOLS
BATTERY
DESCRIPTION
Large capacity, low-maintenance storage batteries
are standard factory-installed equipment on this
model. The primary battery is located in the engine
compartment on all models. A second auxiliary bat-
tery may be installed under the passengers front seat
for running additional electrical equipment.
Male post type terminals made of a soft lead mate-
rial protrude from the top of the molded plastic bat-
tery case to provide the means for connecting the
battery to the vehicle electrical system. The battery
positive terminal post is physically larger in diameter
than the negative terminal post to ensure proper bat-
tery connection. The lettersPOSandNEGare also
molded into the top of the battery case adjacent to
their respective positive and negative terminal posts
for identification confirmation. Refer to Battery
Cables for more information on the battery cables
that connect the battery to the vehicle electrical sys-
tem.
The battery is made up of six individual cells that
are connected in series. Each cell contains positively
charged plate groups that are connected with lead
straps to the positive terminal post, and negatively
charged plate groups that are connected with lead
straps to the negative terminal post. Each plate con-
sists of a stiff mesh framework or grid coated with
lead dioxide (positive plate) or sponge lead (negative
Fig. 3 Clean Battery Terminal Post - Typical
1 - TERMINAL BRUSH
2 - BATTERY CABLE
3 - BATTERY
Micro 420 Battery Tester
8F - 6 BATTERY SYSTEMVA