Does EHA Valve Failure Cause Mercedes Engine Problems?

Posted on | 24 May 2018 By Anita Gaal

Mercedes vehicles have been some of the most durable and reliable cars on the market for decades. In recent years, the engineering behind this fantastic automobile has advanced significantly, where most of the car’s functions are automated and computer-controlled. This includes functions such as fuel distribution. While modern cars are designed to work more efficiently, there are still some issues that arise due to mechanical problems technology can’t prevent.

When it comes to fuel distribution, there are many parts and systems involved in the process to make the car run optimally and effectively. In Mercedes vehicles such as the 300-E, it is common to experience problems with the EHA valve, which serves a critical function in the fuel distribution process. If you drive a Mercedes or have concerns about recent symptoms your car began expressing, you might find this article helpful. We’ll go over what an EHA valve does, common symptoms of failure, and what you can do to prevent EHA valve failure.

What Is an EHA Valve and What Does it Do?

There are many different components within the fuel distribution system of your Mercedes that are all important for the overall functioning of the engine, and each of their roles is critical. An electro-hydraulic actuator (EHA) valve is a part of the fuel distribution system that helps to regulate the pressurized fuel distributor itself. Dictated by the car’s computer, fuel flows through the EHA valve where the fluid is then sifted through smaller holes in the valve, and the fuel distribution ratio can be optimized and corrected for adjustments in driving conditions. When the EHA valve begins to malfunction, it can cause a significant change in your Mercedes’ performance, often leading to engine problems.

Common Problems

Testing for problems with the EHA valve requires specialized knowledge and equipment for working with Mercedes vehicles. Therefore, it is important to find a reputable and trustworthy Mercedes specialist who can properly assess and diagnose EHA valve problems. There are several things that can go wrong with the EHA valve, and depending on what part is failing the symptoms will differ. The EHA valve itself can malfunction if the part becomes worn or damaged. However, the most typical problem associated with EHA valves is a maladjustment problem, where it isn’t set to properly optimize the car’s performance. Another common issue is with the electrical connector that can become corroded and worn over time due to exposure to volatile engine temperatures. It can crack or break, causing the EHA valve to malfunction.

Symptoms

As mentioned before, there are several opportunities for issues with a Mercedes’ EHA valve; however, it is most important to pay attention to the symptoms your car exhibits so that your automotive specialist will know what symptoms to re-create or look out for in the diagnostic process. A failing EHA valve can cause concerning and dangerous side effects that make your Mercedes difficult, if not impossible, to drive—including serious engine problems. These are the most common symptoms of EHA valve failure:

• Rough running: hesitation or jerking upon accelerating; difficulty in the ignition and combustion processes; slow to start
• Fuel Leaks: visible fuel leak beneath car, or remnants of evaporated fuel
• Fuel Efficiency: significantly lowered fuel economy, either due to a fuel leak or EHA valve inefficiency

As you can see, these symptoms are concerning to any driver, let alone the driver of a Mercedes-Benz who comes to expect excellent quality, reliability, and safety. It is critical to have your EHA valve inspected as soon as possible to ensure your safety and restore your car back to its optimal performance level.

How We Can Help You

The Mercedes experts here at Euro Automotive have extensive experience working with German-made cars. Serving the communities of Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth, TX, our breadth of knowledge and passion is expanded each day with every new client that walks through our door. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms associated with EHA failure in your Mercedes, it’s critical to have it checked out by a Mercedes professional right away. The most important thing is obtaining an accurate diagnosis, and we pride ourselves on our ability to provide that to our clients. We can help you maintain ongoing, routine care procedures, or perform expert repair work. Please call us today to schedule an inspection, or learn more about our shop.

* Mercedes SL image credit goes to: supergenijalac.