Fitment notes: European DIN style battery; located in engine compartment
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Every control module on the 1987-1993 Mercedes-Benz 190E — where it lives, replacement time, and what it takes to program a replacement. Modules marked dealer / factory tool won't work after a part swap alone — budget for programming.
Climate Control Module (KE)2.0 hr R&Rno coding
📍 Behind center dashboard climate control panel
⚠️ Electronic climate control on equipped models. Self-calibrating; no coding required. Refrigerant recovery/recharge adds 1.5 hours if lines opened.
Anti-Lock Brake System Control Unit (ABS)1.8 hr R&Rrelearn only +0.2 hr▸ programming details
📍 Engine compartment, right side near firewall or under driver seat
🔧 Test drive for wheel speed sensor adaptation
⚠️ Bosch ABS 2 or 2E system. Self-adapts wheel speed sensors after installation; no software coding required. Bleeding hydraulic unit adds 1.0 hour.
Instrument Cluster (IC)1.5 hr R&Rno coding
📍 Dashboard behind instrument panel
⚠️ Electronic speedometer on later models, but no coding required. Odometer still mechanical through 1993.
Engine Control Unit (ECU)1.2 hr R&Rdealer / factory tool +0.5 hr▸ programming details
📍 Engine compartment, left side firewall near brake booster
🔧 Mercedes HHT or Bosch KTS
⚠️ KE-Jetronic with full electronic control (2.6L) or early EFI systems. Limited coding: idle speed adaptation and fault code clearing via 38-pin diagnostic connector. Most 'coding' is actually reading/clearing codes and verifying idle adaptation.
Supplemental Restraint System Control Unit (SRS)1.0 hr R&Rno coding
📍 Center console under shifter trim or under front seats
⚠️ Introduced 1992-1993 model years only. No coding required; fault codes clear automatically after repair. Always disconnect battery and wait 90 seconds before removal.
📍 Integrated with ignition switch assembly, steering column
🔧 Mercedes HHT
⚠️ Introduced 1991-1993 on some models. Requires dealer tool to program key transponder to module. Early passive immobilizer system.
Aftermarket tool coverage varies by software version and vehicle build — treat "aftermarket tool" rows as "usually possible" and verify against your tool maker's coverage list before promising a customer. Spot a wrong location or hour? Tell us — corrections ship fast here.
Size-standard part numbers — verify your connector type before buying. Rear blades are model-specific; check the package's vehicle list.
Fuel economy figures are EPA data via fueleconomy.gov (median across matching trims). Performance figures are compiled estimates for the 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3L I4 and can vary by trim.
🔧 Database maintained under the daily editorial review of Chris Hackleman · Master Technician · 20+ years and Jeff Moore · Master Lexus & Toyota Mechanic · 20+ years.