SL320 Headlight Washer Failure

[Majorkahuna]

I just bought a 1995 SL320 and the headlight washer system will not shut off once started. I was told it will run until there is no fluid left and then might catch on fire.

I was quoted over $700 to replace the pumps. Seems if this is a fire hazard there should have been a recall. I have noticed many other MB have there washers in a non-funtioning mode as well.

Anyone that could shed some light on this problem I would greatly appreciate it.

 

[jberks]

This sounds a bit fishy to me. I am not an expert on this but this is my view:
1) There is no way that a simple washer pump is $700 (chances are is the same pump they put on everything!)
2) I would be surprised if its the pump that controls shut off - its much simpler for MB to build a timer into the actuating relay and use a conventional pump for the delivery. So- I would expect you need a new relay - not a pump.
3) Any motor driven for a period would overheat - it may catch fire but the same can be said for any of the motors including the ones in your seat. In theory, a melt down would blow the fuse before a fire ensued but it is possible. Golden rule - if something starts whirring when it shouldn't - check it out quick!
I suspect that most don't work as they are rarely used and clog up, rather than won't shut off, which I've not heard of before.