2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes for the Check Engine Light in Your 2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris, the first step is to check the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. Next, examine the dashboard display for any additional warning lights or messages that may offer further insights into the problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is crucial, as it allows you to retrieve error codes from the vehicle's computer system, which can significantly narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light. Additionally, inspect under the hood for any visible signs of damage, such as frayed wires or loose connections, which could indicate underlying issues. Finally, monitor your vehicle's performance for any irregularities like rough idling or decreased fuel efficiency, as these symptoms can provide valuable context for diagnosing the problem. By systematically following these steps, you can effectively gather the necessary information to address the check engine light and potentially resolve the issue on your own.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems that may trigger this warning can help you take the right steps. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which can disrupt the fuel system and is an easy fix. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which not only affects fuel efficiency but can also increase emissions, making it essential to address. Problems with the catalytic converter can also illuminate the check engine light, indicating a failure or inefficiency that may require professional attention. Additionally, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to performance issues. Worn-out spark plugs and faulty ignition coils are other potential causes, as they can result in engine misfires and performance degradation. Lastly, vacuum leaks and issues with the EGR valve can also trigger the light, affecting the vehicle's emissions system. If you encounter this warning, consider these common issues as starting points for your DIY diagnosis, but remember that a thorough check by a qualified mechanic may be necessary for a definitive solution.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it signals potential issues within the engine or emissions system that could range from minor to severe. Ignoring this alert can lead to significant damage, resulting in costly repairs and diminished vehicle performance. For DIY enthusiasts, it’s crucial to understand that the underlying problems indicated by the check engine light can affect not only the engine's efficiency but also fuel consumption and emissions output. By addressing the issue promptly, you can identify the root cause before it escalates into a more serious malfunction. While some may attempt to troubleshoot the problem themselves, it is advisable to consult a qualified mechanic or utilize diagnostic tools to ensure accurate identification and resolution of the issue. Taking swift action not only safeguards your vehicle's health but also enhances your overall driving experience.

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