Glow plug light / no light

[kevinororke]

Hi,

I've just bought a 2000 (X) W202 C220 CDI Estate. The car starts first time every time on the first turn of the "key". The glow plug indicator light in the instrument cluster has never come on at any time. Initially, I thought this was because the indicator was dud. However, could it be because the glow plugs have not been required ? The lowest outside temp at which I've started the car is about 7oC. Also, how can you check if this indicator light is actually working ?

Kevin

 

[Sprint'n'Go]

I think that if you turn the ignition to position 2 and then wait i.e do not start the car, just get all the dash lights on, then the heaterplug light should come on for about 6-7 seconds before going out again. it is normally an orange background with a sort of coilspring picture on it.

I also think I am right in saying that they should activate regardless of ambient temp?

 

[PINBALL]

When I used to drive arcticulated trucks,
The Leyland Seddon would always need to heat plugs before starting whatever the weather!
However, when I had the Volvo or Scania trucks, the glowplug lamp would only light up during extreme frozen conditions, if only for a few seconds before starting - with billows of blue smoke pouring out the skyward exhausts.

Would'nt worry if I were you, until weather starts to get cold again.
Handbook should tell you how it operates.
Look to see if fuse is ok.
Hope it helps,
Keith.
PS: If it aint broke ...etc.

 

[Blobcat]

The Glow Plug warning light should come on for a couple of seconds with teh key in position 2. If the light comes back on again after starting then one or more of the glow plugs is faulty. However in your case of the light not coming on at all yet the car starting well I would suspect the indicator light.

 

[kevinororke]

Thanks for all the advice. I've tried everything you've suggested and it looks like the indicator light is shot. Anyone know how to replce these lights ? Is it a big job ?

Kevin