Highbeam assist - not helping

[niva441]

Hi everyone.

I've got a previous generation C class (W204) with Highbeam assist and have yet to be totally convinced of its usefulness finding it to be too sluggish in normal operation, taking too long to dip for oncoming traffic and not turning back on again quick enough. Additionally the speed limit prevents me projecting the vehicle presence at low speed around blind bends.

Unfortunately the system now has developed a more serious failing. The high beam assist now shuts the high beam off when I am in the middle of the countryside, away from any other light sources, when this feature should be at its most useful. This often happens at the critical moment of approaching bends.

The system doesn't appear to be deselectable from the menu, so I'd appreciate any ideas how to revert to the antiquated level turn on and stay on level of functionality.

Thanks

Todd

[cptsideways]

I assume it only works when the lights are in "auto" mode

[xjay1337]

Is there not a fuse for the highbeam assist?
Whatever Mercedes version of "Vagcom" (for VW) is then I imagine it would be disabled in there.
Dealer could probably do it but would charge you no doubt.

[swilding]

cptsideways said:

I assume it only works when the lights are in "auto" mode

This.

I had the same on my C63 and the auto full beam was pretty poor. Only way was not use auto mode when you needed to switch full beam on and off a lot. i.e. just turn the light switch clockwise. then the manual full beam on the stalk worked fine.

[niva441]

Sorted. Had a play earlier and it works like proper system if the lights are on, rather than using leaving the switch in auto, thank you.

Surprised the dealer could explain that to me yesterday when I wanted the system removed as they couldn't fix it. Rereading the manual it isn't completely clear as it states what happens when the system in auto, but not quite what happens when the lights are actual switch to on.

Features like this do reinforce my Luddite tendencies and that this will be the last new car I own.

Thanks for your help, just need to delete the nasty, afterthought UK mode now.

Edited by niva441 on Saturday 24th October 19:26

[eldar]

xjay1337 said:

Is there not a fuse for the highbeam assist?
Whatever Mercedes version of "Vagcom" (for VW) is then I imagine it would be disabled in there.
Dealer could probably do it but would charge you no doubt.

It's a user option from the in car menu. It works OK about 90℅ of the time, being confused by street lamps, reflective signs and hid equipped cyclists 4 miles away.

Tempting to use but practically useless.

[niva441]

eldar said:

It's a user option from the in car menu. It works OK about 90? of the time, being confused by street lamps, reflective signs and hid equipped cyclists 4 miles away.

Tempting to use but practically useless.

None of those have been present when it switched off, just trees, countryside and the minor issue of being on top of an approaching bend. Definitely of limited use, couldn't even react to oncoming traffic fast enough.

[eldar]

niva441 said:

None of those have been present when it switched off, just trees, countryside and the minor issue of being on top of an approaching bend. Definitely of limited use, couldn't even react to oncoming traffic fast enough.

Mine aren't that bad. Still a gimmick though, and stay in manual, much more reliable.