P218A Mercedes S 500 Diagnostic Trouble Code

P218A Mercedes S 500 code definition:
P218A is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Mercedes S 500.

P218A Mercedes S 500 is described as Oxygen Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected Bank 2 Sensor 1. This code appears when the PCM (powertrain control module, also known as ECM or engine control module in other brands) remains at or close the 0.450 set voltage point. The PCM then uses this data to provide the right strategies for the fuel delivery and ignition timing of the engine.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P218A Mercedes S 500 diagnostic trouble code may include:

Blown fuse (if applicable)
Engine surge
Reduction in engine performance, especially at low RPM levels
If the DPF is not cleared the ECU will revert to the "Limp Home Mode" until the situation is corrected

Possible Causes :

A large air leak at or near the number one oxygen sensor would also cause a lean mixture.
Faulty IMRC actuator relay (if equipped)
Dirty air cleaner element Damaged DPF

Common Misdiagnoses

Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit Performance Problem
TP Sensor Learn Not Complete Problem
Low Coolant Circuit Problem
Cruise Control System - Vehicle Accel Too High Problem
Kick-Down Switch Failed Short Problem

Repair Processes :

If all testing has passed so far yet you still have the same code, check your scan tool and see if it can open and close the IMRC valve. With the valve disconnected, the red voltmeter lead should be attached to the IMRC valve power wire and the black voltmeter lead connected to ground.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P218A Mercedes S 500 is not difficult to diagnose and repair. Thus, it always pays to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle should this error code arise.

Diagnosing this code requires the engine to be in good running shape, without unmetered air entering the engine. If other codes that relates to misfiring condition, lean running or air entering the engine is present, then you must first fix those error codes before P218A Mercedes S 500.

Fortunately, P218A Mercedes S 500 is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.