Mercedes-Benz Metris Has A Check Engine Light

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

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 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 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.

Troubleshooting Check Engine Light in a Mercedes-Benz Metris

When faced with a check engine light in your 2019 Mercedes-Benz Metris, start by assessing the situation calmly. If the light is flashing, immediately turn off the engine to avoid potential damage. Next, utilize diagnostic tools such as an OBD-II scanner to read the trouble codes, which can provide insight into the specific issue at hand. Common culprits include a loose fuel cap, faulty oxygen sensors, or catalytic converter problems. Before attempting to reset the light, ensure that you have addressed the root cause of the issue; simply resetting the light without fixing the underlying problem can lead to further complications. If you are confident that the issue has been resolved, you can reset the check engine light using the scanner or by disconnecting the battery for a brief period. However, if the light persists or you are unsure about the diagnosis, it is wise to consult with a certified Mercedes-Benz technician to prevent any long-term damage to your vehicle. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot and manage the check engine light in your Metris, ensuring it remains in optimal condition.

What Common Problems Cause the Check Engine Light to Illuminate in a Mercedes-Benz Metris?

When the check engine light comes on in your Mercedes-Benz Metris, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems can help you troubleshoot effectively. One frequent cause is a loose gas cap, which can disrupt the fuel system's pressure; simply tightening or replacing it may resolve the issue. Another common culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a vital role in monitoring exhaust gases; if this sensor malfunctions, it can trigger the light. Additionally, spark plug issues, such as wear or damage, can affect engine performance and lead to the check engine light illuminating. Lastly, problems with the catalytic converter, which is essential for reducing emissions, can also cause the light to activate. While these issues can often be addressed through DIY methods, it is important to consider professional diagnostics for a comprehensive understanding of the problem and to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly.

Why is the Check Engine Light On in a Mercedes-Benz Metris?

When the check engine light illuminates in your Mercedes-Benz Metris, it serves as a crucial alert that should not be ignored. Neglecting this warning can lead to serious consequences, including diminished vehicle performance, increased fuel consumption, and potential safety hazards. For instance, a loose gas cap may seem trivial, but it can lead to fuel evaporation and increased emissions, while more severe issues related to the engine or fuel system could result in costly repairs if left unaddressed. Additionally, if the vehicle enters "limp mode" due to performance issues, it restricts power to prevent further damage, making it imperative to seek professional diagnosis. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only ensure the longevity of your vehicle but also maintain safety on the road, making it a critical step in responsible vehicle ownership.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.