There is more variation in Mercedes steering racks than most people would guess. So buying parts by model year will usually get the wrong parts delivered.
Why Engine Code Matters More Than Year
Regardless of model, engine type and year, two cars are always fitted with different type steering systems. The engine code of your car determines the platform variant, steering type, mounting positions, and the possible mixture of hydraulic and electric elements.
Where to Find Your Engine Code
- 271 or 646) and is stamped on the engine block. It is also written on your V5C logbook and your Mercedes service history. Make sure you have the correct engine code before ordering parts to ensure you get the correct rack.
Hydraulic vs Electric Rack Type
- 693, 967), Mercedes use electric power steering (EPS). g. 271, 646). Therefore it is very important to confirm the engine code in order to avoid an expensive mistake. For more on this, take a look at https://westernpowersteering.co.uk/vehicles/mercedes/.
Speed-Sensor Port Variants
This speed-sensor port will need to match that on your existing steering rack as well as the speed-sensitive circuit on your vehicle, and steering warning lights or loss of correct steering weight at speed may be encountered if this is not present on the replacement unit.
Mounting and Hose Differences
Even within the same engine family there can be differences in mounting of the rack and of the hoses. By cross-checking the engine code with the part number of the steering rack you can even determine whether there are differences in connection of the hoses to the rack.
Finding the Right Unit
The unit is granted on a basis of engine code and variant number which is why engine codes are the primary reference for a steering component specialist.
