W202 merc issues after standing for 2 months

[Justin]

Hi forum i just recently got my merc back after it being stuck in Durban with no keys . but since i have picked up the car i have noticed a my steering wheel shakes between 100 and 105 kph . and when i brake my steering wheel starts to shake again . is it possible for the brake rotors to warp just from standing

Topic

[Phil Grimsey]

Hi,

Your tyres may have gained flat spots in them whilst standing and/or a brake calliper may have stuck.

I’d also check suspension bushes for play whilst you’re under there.

Regards,

Phil

[Justin]

Thanks Phil . i have been using my Merc for a few days now . but my tires do need be replaced . Once they have been replaced i will see what the results are . I definatly think the tires have got flats spots .

[Justin]

I noticed a squeak on my merc when i arrived at work this morning . i normaly let my idle a bit before turning it off . but this morning i let it idle and opened my door and heard a squeak . it was a fast squeak . and for reason i cant explain i put my foot on the clutch and the squeak stopped . What could be the cause of that

[EricTheCarGuy]

It sounds like you have a couple of issues. The first is tire balance. Given that they would normally balance the tires at the same time you replace them that should probably address that issue. As for the vibration when braking that’s probably due to warped rotors or in your case rust build up on the rotors due to the fact that it was sitting. You may be able to have the rotors machined if there’s enough material left, if not then you’ll have to replace them. They use special tools to measure the thickness of the rotor and compare it to spec. As for the noise you heard it’s likely to be an issue with the pilot bearing. I wouldn’t worry about it unless it gets worse. This may also be due to it sitting. Keep us posted on your progress.

[Justin]

Thanks for the post Eric . I was inspecting my car the car the other day I think the rotors should be replaced all 4 of them . the squeak I am hearing is a clutch bearing witch is funny because I replaced the whole clutch system in September 2012 . The tyres have not been replaced yet because I do not have time for that right now . My new concern right now is that I will be leaving to Australia in march for 3 months . I have arranged for somebody to drive my car every two weeks just so the battery can stay charged . Any tips on letting a car stand so that when I come back I will not have issues . Thanks

[EricTheCarGuy]

You can also store the vehicle on jack stands to avoid getting flat spots on the tires. In addition disconnect the negative battery cable to preserve the battery. However the best thing is to drive the car. If it’s driven it’s less likely to develop problems.

[Justin]

I left the car with my mechanic while i go to Australia to sort out all the small issues that i didnt have time for.do some body repairs , repair all the dents and chips that have accumilated over the 12 years of being on the road , he has replaced all the tires and brake rotors and pads , suspension has been redone and a general service of the car , and just to top it off he will be replacing the drivers side front window seal . the seal got damaged by somebody trying to break into the car .

[college man]

keep us posted on your progress. 😉

[Author]

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