What Causes Glow Plug Timer Relay Failure In Your Mercedes?
Are you experiencing a no-start or low-cranking situation with your diesel engine Mercedes? If you are struggling to get your diesel engine running as you insert the ignition key then the problem could be a glow plug timer relay failure.
This small but very important part of the engine is designed to help get your diesel ready when the weather is extremely cold. If it fails, the glow plugs will not receive the power that is required to heat the air in the cylinders for combustion. But what leads to the failure of the relay in the first place? Keep on reading to find out what is behind the failure of the timer relay, how you can fix it, and where you should go for affordable repair.
Possible Causes Of Glow Plug Timer Relay Breakdown
- Worn or Damaged Glow Plugs: The relay is known to fail mainly due to problems with the glow plugs. Glow plugs have a limited service life and when they begin to degrade or fail they draw excessive current. This excess current is an additional load placed on the relay and if the current is too high it will overheat the relay and make it fail. Regular replacement of the worn glow plugs will go a long way in ensuring that the timer relay is not affected by the worn plugs.
- Electrical Issues: Electrical issues such as loose wires, poor connections, or even frayed cables can also affect the glow plug relay. Since the relay is controlled by electrical signals, which should be steady, any problem with the wiring system will lead to the relay’s failure. Most of the time, relay failure is attributed to the deterioration of the electrical parts by gradual usage over time especially when exposed to humidity or extreme temperatures.
- Corrosion in the Relay Connections: Another problem that impacts relay performance is corrosion. Eventually, the connectors may corrode due to moisture, dirt accumulation, and road salt and may not make good contact with the battery. Corrosion affects the relay and impairs its capacity to deliver current to the glow plugs, and the relay breaks down in the end. This problem can be avoided through frequent checkups and cleaning of relay connections.
- Aging Relay Components: As with most car components, the glow plug relay is not shielded from wear and tear. When these components age, it is most probable that they may no longer be in a position to distribute the current load appropriately resulting in relay failure.
How to Fix the Glow Plug Timer Relay
- Inspect the Glow Plugs: First of all, check the glow plugs themselves. If they are worn or damaged, then the replacement of the relay could fix the timer relay problem and enable smooth starts.
- Examine Wiring and Connections: Check for corrosion, damage, or loose fittings of the wiring and connection used in the circuit. An issue with the relay can be prevented by replacing or repairing faulty wiring that may have been affected in the past.
- Replace the Relay: If the glow plugs and the wiring are okay then the relay may be faulty and should be changed. A new relay can make sure that all the parts are working as they should, and relieve the other components from extra stress.
- Schedule Regular Maintenance: The relay and glow plugs should be checked regularly to avoid cases of failure. An ideal auto service company will ensure that your Mercedes’s glow plug system is well-checked and replaced whenever necessary.
Glow Plug Relay Solutions at Motorwerks Auto Group
Motorwerks Auto Group is the leading repair shop that 
provides automotive services for maintaining and fixing Mercedes cars in Humble, TX. If you are having glow plug relay problems or require a comprehensive check, our expert staff can identify and solve the problem quickly. We take our time to ensure that we deliver a good service so that your Mercedes starts well every time and keeps you and everyone on the road safe.
If you’re having issues with a faulty relay, then it’s time to visit Motorwerks Auto Group for excellent service and quality repairs. Call us now for your next Mercedes inspection or repair!