2006 MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER service indicator

1.0 INTRODUCTION
The procedures contained in this manual include
all the specifications, instructions and graphics
needed to diagnose Sprinter body system problems.
The diagnostics in this manual are based on the
failure condition or symptom being present at the
time of diagnosis.
Please follow the recommendations below when
choosing your diagnostic path.
1. First make sure the DRBIIItis communicating
with the appropriate modules; i.e., if the
DRBIIItdisplays a ``No Response'' or a ``Bus6
Signals Open'' condition, you must diagnose that
first.
2. Read DTC's (diagnostic trouble codes) with the
DRBIIIt.
3. If no DTC's are present, identify the customer
complaint.
4. Once the DTC or customer complaint is identi-
fied, locate the matching test in the Table of
Contents and begin to diagnose the symptom.
All component location views are in Section 8.0.
All connector pinouts are in Section 9.0. All sche-
matics are in Section 10.0. All Charts and Graphs
are in Section 11.0.
An * placed before the symptom description indi-
cates a customer complaint without a DTC.
When repairs are required, refer to the appropri-
ate service information for the proper removal and
repair procedure.
Diagnostic procedures change every year. New
diagnostic systems may be added: carryover sys-
tems may be enhanced. READ THIS MANUAL
BEFORE TRYING TO DIAGNOSE A VEHICLE
DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE. It is recom-
mended that you review the entire manual to be-
come familiar with all the new and changed diag-
nostic procedures.
This book reflects many suggested changes from
readers of past issues. After using this book, if you
have any comments or suggestions, please fill out
the form in the back of this book and mail it back to
us.
1.1 SYSTEM COVERAGE
This diagnostic procedures manual covers all
Sprinter vehicles.
1.2 SIX-STEP TROUBLESHOOTING
PROCEDURE
Diagnosis of the body system is done in six basic
steps:
²verification of complaint
²verification of any related symptoms
²symptom analysis
²problem isolation
²repair of isolated problem
²verification of proper operation
2.0 IDENTIFICATION OF
SYSTEM
The vehicle systems that are part of the ``body''
system are:
²Airbag
²Automatic Temperature Control
²Communication
²Instrument Cluster
²Power Door Locks/RKE
²Vehicle Theft Security System (VTSS)
²Wiper/Rain Sensor
3.0 SYSTEM DESCRIPTION AND
FUNCTIONAL OPERATION
The body system on the Sprinter consists of a
combination of modules that communicate with
each other using the CAN Bus (controller area
network). Through the CAN Bus, information about
the operation of vehicle components and circuits is
relayed quickly to the appropriate modules. Since
the CAN bus network is for intermodule communi-
cation only, the DRBIIItutilizes K-Lines to estab-
lish communications with each module. It is impor-
tant to note the CAN bus circuits are by no means
tied to the K-Lines. They are completely separate
from each other. For additional information on the
CAN bus and the K-Lines, refer to the Communi-
cation section of this general information.
3.1 AIRBAG SYSTEM
The Sprinter Airbag System contains the follow-
ing components:
²Airbag Control Module (ACM)
²Airbag Warning Indicator (SRS)
²Driver Airbags
²Clockspring
²Passenger Airbag
²Driver Seat Belt Tensioners
²Passenger Seat Belt Tensioners
The Airbag Control Module (ACM) has five major
functions: onboard diagnostics, determine the se-
verity of impacts, squib deployment and Accident
Response, K-Line communications. The ACM is
1
GENERAL INFORMATION

secured to the floor under the Driver seat and
receives power from the Fuse Block No. 1. When-
ever the ignition key is turned to the run or start
position, the ACM performs a system test. The ACM
cannot be repaired or adjusted.
The microprocessor in the ACM monitors the
internal and external airbag system electrical cir-
cuits to determine the system readiness. When a
monitored system is determine to be out of range,
the ACM will set both active and stored diagnostic
trouble codes (DTC). The ACM also contains an
energy-storage capacitor. This capacitor stores
enough electrical energy to deploy the front airbag
components for two seconds following a battery
disconnect or failure during an impact.
The Accelerometer in the ACM is used to sense
the rate of vehicle deceleration, provide verification
of the direction and severity of an impact. When the
preprogrammed conditions are met, the ACM sends
an electrical signal to deploy the appropriate front
airbag system components and a deployment noti-
fication.
To provide an accident response notification, the
ACM is hardwired to the Central Timer module
(CTM) and Engine Control Module (ECM). When a
deployment occurs the ACM provides a 50ms 10.0
volt pulse to the CTM and ECM. When the Accident
Report notification signal is received the CTM un-
locks the door locks and the ECM stalls the engine.
The Accident signal will set a DTC in the CTM and
the door locks will not work until the DTC has been
erased. The ECM will set a DTC if the Accident
Report circuit is shorted to battery voltage. The
ACM saves the deployment record and after three
deployments the ACM must be replaced. The
DRBIIItcan be used to test the Accident Report
Notification feature: select the SYSTEM TEST from
the ACM main menu. Then select the Analog Crash
Output System Test.
The ACM is hardwired to the Instrument Cluster
(MIC) to control Warning Indicator (SRS indicator).
When DTCs becomes activate, the ACM illuminates
the Warning Indicator by pulling the indicator
circuit low. The SRS indicator is the only point at
which the customer can observe symptoms of a
system malfunction.
As part of the system test the ACM illuminates
the Warning Indicator on for 4.0 second bulb test.
After the lamp check, if the indicator turns off, it
means that the ACM has checked the system and
found it to be free of discernible malfunctions.
NON-CRITICAL DTCs
If the lamp comes on and stays on for a period
longer than 4.0 seconds (about 10.0 seconds) is
usually a stored DTC (intermittent problem) in the
system.
CRITICAL DTCs
DTCs that could lead to a condition where the
safety devises may not deploy or incorrectly deploy.
In the event of such a DTC, the safety of the vehicle
occupants can no longer be guaranteed. If the lamp
remains on, there could be an active DTC in the
system. Some DTCs, Internal Module and squib
DTCs, will keep the indicator illuminated even if
the codes are no longer active.
ACM NOT CONFIGURED FOR PASSENGER
AIRBAG AND TENSIONER
If after replacing the ACM the Airbag Warning
Indicator flashes continuously the ACM must be
configured for the Passenger Airbag and Tensioner.
Select Miscellaneous from the ACM main menu and
configure the Passenger Airbag Tensioner squibs.
WARNING:THE AIRBAG SYSTEM IS A
SENSITIVE, COMPLEX ELECTROMECHANICAL
UNIT. BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO DIAGNOSE OR
SERVICE ANY AIRBAG SYSTEM OR RELATED
STEERING WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, OR
INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENTS YOU MUST
FIRST DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE
BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE. WAIT
TWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR
TO DISCHARGE BEFORE FURTHER SYSTEM
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO
DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE TO
DO THIS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL
AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY.
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, NEVER STRIKE OR KICK THE
AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE, AS IT CAN
DAMAGE THE IMPACT SENSOR OR AFFECT
ITS CALIBRATION.
WARNING: IF AN AIRBAG CONTROL
MODULE IS ACCIDENTALLY DROPPED
DURING SERVICE, THE MODULE MUST BE
SCRAPPED AND REPLACED WITH A NEW
UNIT. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER
PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN
ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND
PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
3.1.1 DRIVER AIRBAG
The airbag protective trim cover is the most
visible part of the driver side airbag system. The
airbag is mounted directly to the steering wheel.
Located under the trim cover are the airbag cushion
and the airbag cushion supporting components.
2
GENERAL INFORMATION

loads are connected to cables and mounted in a
storage case. The cables can be directly connected to
some airbag system connectors. Jumpers are used
to convert the load tool cable connectors to the other
airbag system connectors. The adapters are con-
nected to the module harness connector to open
shorting clips and protect the connector terminal
during testing. When using the load tool follow all of
the safety procedures in the service information for
disconnecting airbag system components. Inspect
the wiring, connector and terminals for damage or
misalignment. Substitute the airbag load tool in
place of a Driver or Passenger Airbag, seat belt
tensioner, clockspring (use a jumper if needed).
Then follow all of the safety procedures in the
service information for connecting airbag system
components. Read the module active DTCs. If the
module reports NO ACTIVE DTCs the defective
components has been removed from the system and
should be replaced. If the DTC is still active, con-
tinue this process until all components in the circuit
have been tested. Then disconnect the module con-
nector and connect the matching adapter to the
module connector. With all airbags disconnected
and the adapter installed the squib wiring can be
tested for open and shorted conditions.
3.1.6 DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES
Airbag diagnostic trouble codes consist of active
and stored codes. If more than one code exists,
diagnostic priority should be given to the active
codes. Each diagnostic trouble code is diagnosed by
following a specific testing procedure. The diagnos-
tic test procedures contain step-by-step instructions
for determining the cause of the trouble codes. It is
not necessary to perform all of the tests in this book
to diagnose an individual code. Always begin by
reading the diagnostic trouble codes with the
DRBIIIt. This will direct you to the specific test(s)
that must be performed. In certain test procedures
within this manual, diagnostic trouble codes are
used as a diagnostic tool.
3.1.6.1 ACTIVE CODES
If the lamp remains on, there could be an active
DTC in the system. The code becomes active as soon
as the malfunction is detected or key-on, whichever
occurs first. An active trouble code indicates an
on-going malfunction. This means that the defect is
currently there every time the airbag control mod-
ule checks that circuit or component. Some DTCs,
Internal Module and squib DTCs, will keep the
indicator illuminated even if they are no longer
active. If the lamp is on and no active codes are
present, cycling the ignition switch off and then on
will refresh the lamp state. It is impossible to erase
an active code.
3.1.6.2 STORED CODES
Airbag codes are automatically stored in the
ACM's memory as soon as the malfunction is de-
tected. A stored code indicates there was an active
code present at some time. Stored diagnostic trou-
ble code will remain stored until erased by the DRB.
If a malfunction is not active while performing a
diagnostic test procedure, the active code diagnostic
test will not locate the source of the problem. In this
case, the stored code can indicate an area to inspect.
Maintain a safe distance from all airbags while
performing the following inspection. If no obvious
problems are found, erase stored codes, and with
the ignition on wiggle the wire harness and connec-
tors, rotate the steering wheel from stop to stop.
Recheck for codes periodically as you work through
the system. This procedure may uncover a malfunc-
tion that is difficult to locate.
3.2 COMMUNICATION
3.2.1 COMMUNICATION K-LINES
The K-Lines are a group of circuits that connect
each control module to the Data Link Connector
(DLC). Each control module is connected to the DLC
with a single K-Line. The DRBIIItuses the K-Line
to communicate with each control module. With the
use of the K-Lines the DRBIIItis able to read each
control modules DTCs, sensor displays, I/Os etc. If
DRBIIItcommunications with a particular control
module is lost, one of the possible causes could be a
fault in the module's K-Line.
NOTE: It is important to note the DRBIIIT
uses the K-Lines for diagnostic and
monitoring functions and is no way
connected to the CAN data bus network.
The following modules that use the K-line on this
vehicle are:
²Airbag Control Module (ACM)
²Automatic Temperature Control (ATC)
²Cabin Heater Module (CHM)
²Central Timer Module (CTM)
²Controller Antilock Brake (CAB)
²Engine Control Module (ECM)
²Heater Booster Module (HBM)
²Instrument Cluster (IC)
²Shifter Assembly (SA)
²Security System Module (SSM)
²Sentry Key Remote Entry Module (SKREEM)
²Transmission Control Module (TCM)
4
GENERAL INFORMATION

the A-pillar. The SKREEM receives radio messages
from the RKE transmitter (fob) and sends com-
mands via the RKE Interface circuit to the CTM. If
the vehicle is equipped with VTSS, the Security
System Module will be connected in series between
the SKREEM and the CTM.
Confirmation of the RKE Lock/Unlock state is
accomplished via the turn signals. When the vehicle
is locked via RKE the turn signals will flash three
times. When it is unlocked via RKE, the turn
signals will flash one time. If the vehicle has been
unlocked via RKE and no door is opened within 40
seconds, the entire vehicle will be locked again
automatically.
If a transmitter (fob) is operated more than 255
times in succession beyond the range of the receiver
(SKREEM), the RKE portion of the key will become
inoperative. In order to put it back in synchroniza-
tion it will be necessary to have ALL the other
transmitters that are used with this vehicle avail-
able and follow the following procedure:
1. Cycle the ignition on and off 2 times within 6
seconds (leave in off position).
2. Press the lock or unlock button of the disabled
transmitter within 3 seconds of turning the
ignition off.
3. Press any button (lock or unlock) 3 more times
within 6 seconds.
4. Wait 10 seconds.
5. Press any button of ALL other transmitters
belonging to this vehicle at least once within
the next 20 seconds.
For problems related to the Immobilizer function
of the SKREEM, see Service Information.
3.5.3 AUTO DOOR LOCKS
Whenever the engine is started, the CTM receives
a message to lock all doors except the drivers door.
This is accomplished through the D+ Relay. The D+
Relay is controlled by the Instrument Cluster which
receives a command from the ECM that the engine
is running. This relay supplies power to the CTM
(for auto locking), the daytime running lamps and
the rear window defogger.
3.5.4 ACCIDENT RESPONSE
The CTM is hardwired to the Airbag Control
Module through the Enhanced Accident Report
Driver circuit. Anytime the vehicle airbags are
deployed, the CTM will unlock all doors and a
9Crash9DTC will be stored in memory. The door
locks will be inoperative until that code is cleared. If
the vehicle is severly jarred, but not enough to
deploy the airbags, it is possible that the DTC could
be set and therefore the door locks would be inop-
erable. Whenever the door locks are not opera-tional, use the DRBIII and check DTC's . If the code
9ACM has unlocked the doors9appears, use the
DRBIII and erase it.
3.6 VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY SYSTEM
(VTSS)
The Security System Module (SSM) is located
under the driver's seat. The SSM communicates
with the DRBIII over the K-line. If equipped the
Vehicle Theft Security System will monitor the
following:
²door jamb switches
²hood ajar switch
²ignition switch
²interior of the vehicle for movement
²longitudinal and transverse movement of the
vehicle
²rear defogger grids for glass breakage
²trailer connector
To arm the system the hood and all of the doors
must be closed when the vehicle is locked with the
RKE transmitter or with the use of the key in the
driver door. If the key is used, it must be held in the
lock position for 2 seconds. When the system is first
activated, the hazard lamps will flash 3 times. Also
with the system armed, the Towing/Intrusion Sen-
sor On/Off Switch indicator will flash to indicate an
armed system. To disarm the system use the RKE
or the driver door lock cylinder. Unlocking and
opening one of the other doors with the system
armed will trip the vehicle theft security system.
Interior monitoring is done by the use of an
Intrusion Sensor located in the front headliner and
with one or two sensors in the ceiling of the cargo
area depending on how the vehicle is equipped.
Monitoring of the interior of the vehicle will begin
after the system has been armed for 30 seconds. The
on/off switch located on the instrument panel can be
used to turn off this feature with the ignition switch
in either the Locked/Off or ACC position. The vehi-
cle tow-monitoring feature can also be switched off
using this switch. Re-locking the vehicle a second
time will reactivate these features.
If a trailer is connected to the vehicle when the
system is armed, the SSM will sense a resistance
change on the turn signal circuits if the trailer
harness becomes disconnected and will trip the
alarm.
Tripping the vehicle theft security system will
cause the hazard lamps to flash and the siren to
sound at 30-second intervals. The siren is equipped
with it's own self-contained battery. In the event the
vehicle's battery power is disconnected the siren
will continue to sound on it's own.
10
GENERAL INFORMATION

TEST ACTION APPLICABILITY
2WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH, TURN IGNITION
OFF, DISCONNECT THE BATTERY AND WAIT TWO MINUTES BEFORE
PROCEEDING.
Disconnect the Airbag Control Module connector.
WARNING: IF THE AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE IS DROPPED AT ANY
TIME, IT MUST BE REPLACED. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
NOTE: Check connectors - Clean and repair as necessary.
Connect the Airbag Load Tool ACM Adaptor to the Airbag Control Module connector.
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH, TURN IGNITION
ON, THEN RECONNECT THE BATTERY.
Measure the voltage of the Airbag Warning Indicator Driver circuit at the ACM
adaptor.
Is the voltage above 10.0 volts?All
Ye s!Go To 3
No!Go To 4
3 Turn the ignition off.
Disconnect the Instrument Cluster connectors.
NOTE: Check connectors - Clean and repair as necessary.
Measure the voltage of the Airbag Warning Indicator Driver circuit at the ACM
adaptor.
Is the voltage above 10.0 volts?All
Ye s!Repair the Airbag Warning Indicator Driver circuit for a short to
voltage.
Perform AIRBAG VERIFICATION TEST - VER 1.
No!Replace the Instrument Cluster in accordance with Service In-
structions.
Perform AIRBAG VERIFICATION TEST - VER 1.
4WARNING: IF THE AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE IS DROPPED AT ANY
TIME, IT MUST BE REPLACED. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
If there are no possible causes remaining, view repair.All
Repair:
Replace the Airbag Control Module in accordance with Service
Instructions.
Perform AIRBAG VERIFICATION TEST - VER 1.
17
AIRBAG
AIRBAG WARNING INDICATOR - DRIVER HIGH ÐContinued

TEST ACTION APPLICABILITY
2WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH, TURN IGNITION
OFF, DISCONNECT THE BATTERY AND WAIT TWO MINUTES BEFORE
PROCEEDING.
Disconnect the Airbag Control Module connector.
WARNING: IF THE AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE IS DROPPED AT ANY
TIME, IT MUST BE REPLACED. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
NOTE: Check connectors - Clean and repair as necessary.
Connect the Airbag Load Tool ACM Adaptor to the Airbag Control Module connector.
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH, TURN IGNITION
ON, THEN RECONNECT THE BATTERY.
Measure the voltage of the Airbag Warning Indicator Driver circuit at the ACM
adaptor.
Is the voltage above 9.0 volts?All
Ye s!Go To 3
No!Go To 5
3 Turn the ignition off.
Connect a jumper between the Airbag Warning Indicator Driver circuit at the ACM
Adaptor and ground.
Turn the ignition on.
Observe the SRS indicator while turning the ignition on.
Does the SRS indicator illuminate?All
Ye s!Go To 4
No!Replace the Instrument Cluster in accordance with Service In-
structions.
Perform AIRBAG VERIFICATION TEST - VER 1.
4WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH, TURN IGNITION
OFF, DISCONNECT THE BATTERY AND WAIT TWO MINUTES BEFORE
PROCEEDING.
WARNING: IF THE AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE IS DROPPED AT ANY
TIME, IT MUST BE REPLACED. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
If there are no possible causes remaining, view repair.All
Repair:
Replace the Airbag Control Module in accordance with Service
Instructions.
Perform AIRBAG VERIFICATION TEST - VER 1.
5 Turn the ignition off.
Disconnect the Instrument Cluster connectors.
NOTE: Check connectors - Clean and repair as necessary.
Measure the resistance of the Airbag Warning Lamp Driver circuit between the ACM
Adaptor and Instrument Cluster Connector.
Is the resistance below 5.0 ohms?All
Ye s!Go To 6
No!Repair the open or high resistance in the Airbag Warning Indica-
tor Driver circuit.
Perform AIRBAG VERIFICATION TEST - VER 1.
20
AIRBAG
AIRBAG WARNING INDICATOR - DRIVER LOW ÐContinued

TEST ACTION APPLICABILITY
6 Measure the resistance of the Airbag Warning Lamp Driver circuit between the
Airbag Control Module Adaptor and ground.
Is the resistance below 5.0 ohms?All
Ye s!Repair the Airbag Warning Indicator Driver circuit shorted to
ground.
Perform AIRBAG VERIFICATION TEST - VER 1.
No!Go To 7
7WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH, TURN IGNITION
OFF, DISCONNECT THE BATTERY AND WAIT TWO MINUTES BEFORE
PROCEEDING.
WARNING: IF THE AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE IS DROPPED AT ANY
TIME, IT MUST BE REPLACED. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
If there are no possible causes remaining, view repair.All
Repair:
Replace the Airbag Control Module in accordance with the Service
Information.
Perform AIRBAG VERIFICATION TEST - VER 1.
8 With the DRBIIIt, record and erase all DTC's from all Airbag modules.
If equipped with Passenger Airbag On - Off switch, read the DTC's in all switch
positions.
If any ACTIVE codes are present they must be resolved before diagnosing any stored
codes.
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH, TURN THE IGNI-
TION OFF, DISCONNECT THE BATTERY AND WAIT TWO MINUTES BE-
FORE PROCEEDING.
Using the wiring diagram/schematic as a guide, inspect the wiring and connectors.
Look for chaffed, pierced, pinched, or partially broken wires and broken, bent, pushed
out, spread, corroded, or contaminated terminals.
The following additional checks may assist you in identifying a possible intermittent
problem.
Reconnect any disconnected components and harness connector.
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH, TURN THE IGNI-
TION ON, THEN RECONNECT THE BATTERY.
With the DRBIIItmonitor active codes as you work through the following steps.
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH, MAINTAIN A SAFE
DISTANCE FROM ALL AIRBAGS WHILE PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING
STEPS.
Wiggle the wiring harness and connectors of the related airbag circuit or component.
If codes are related to the Driver circuits, rotate the steering wheel from stop to stop.
You have just attempted to simulate the condition that initially set the trouble code
message.
Did the DTC become active?All
Ye s!Select appropriate symptom from Symptom List.
No!No problem found at this time. Erase all codes before returning
vehicle to customer.
21
AIRBAG
AIRBAG WARNING INDICATOR - DRIVER LOW ÐContinued

Symptom:
PREGLOW INDICATOR LAMP FAILURE
POSSIBLE CAUSES
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
TEST ACTION APPLICABILITY
1NOTE: The Instrument Cluster performs internal tests on the indicators
during each ignition cycle.
With the DRBIIIt, erase DTCs.
Turn the ignition off, wait 10 seconds, then turn the ignition on.
With the DRBIIIt, read DTCs.
Does the DRBIIItread: Preglow Indicator Lamp Failure?All
Ye s!Replace the Instrument Cluster in accordance with the Service
Information.
Perform BODY VERIFICATION TEST - VER 1.
No!Test Complete.
194
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER