2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK230 Brakes Problems

“The mercedes benz slk 230 2001 model brakes randomly with the front tires left or right or both, engine performance goes down to super slow for a fraction of a second. The car turns to the left or right and slows down abruptly and only due to my fast reaction I am able to avoid traffic accidents ! This can happen at any time and any speed and any place. The last time at about 1mph on a parking lot, before at about 75mph on the interstate !”

“While driving on an interstate highway in wet conditions (raining on and off), my car suddenly jerked to the right; it felt as if my right rear wheel brakes had applied for a second or so. I noticed that the yellow triangle in the middle of the dash board that alerts me to the application of the ESC was blinking (and continued to blink until I stopped the car and turned off the engine). As I recall, my car went into the lane to my right before I regained control. I had both hands on the wheel at the time. …”

“For the last several months, esp/bas light will com on while traveling on highway, and brakes are applied involuntarily intermittently, creating a safety hazard. On occasion is also happened at low speed in city traffic. Contacted the mercedes benz dealer, they immediately blamed yaw rate sensor, or accelerator sensor module replacement ranging between $300-700.00 in repair cost in addition to another related problem with stop light switch, although they are aware of the faulty parts, no recalls are made, and NHTSA also is aware, but have closed the investigation. …”

“The contact owns a 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK230. While driving approximately 75 MPH, the ESC warning indicator suddenly illuminated and the ESC activated. As a result, the front passenger side brake suddenly activated and the vehicle turned to the right. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The local dealer was not notified. The failure mileage was 105,000.”

“The contact owns a 2001 mercedes benz SLK230. The contact stated that while driving 60 MPH that the rear wheels were locked and the esp warning light illumined on the instrument panel. The contact was able to merge to the side of the road. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that the brake switch light needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The VIN was not available. The failure and the current mileage was 65,600. Updated 10/16/12 the consumer stated the defect was in the yaw sensor. Updated 10/23/2012”