Mercedes W116 fuel level sender 1165420304 VDO S-Class 280 S 350 450 SE
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Genuine VDO fuel level sender 1165420304 for the Mercedes W116 S-Class – 280 S, 350 SE, 450 SE/SEL.
Genuine VDO part · Professionally refurbished · 5-year warranty
✓ Function tested
5-year warranty on this refurbished part
Should there be a problem: send in the part – we will repair or replace it. In addition, a 60-day return policy and free shipping within Germany apply.
Function and location
The fuel level sender sits as a dip tube in the fuel tank and converts the fill level into a resistance value: a float guides the wiper block along the tensioned resistance wire, and the fuel gauge in the instrument cluster follows this value. A separate contact switches on the warning light once the reserve level is reached. The labyrinth in the tube dampens fuel slosh during cornering.
Installation location: Screwed into the fuel tank from above, accessible from the trunk under a cover.
Used part or refurbished part?
| Standard used part | This refurbished part |
|---|---|
| Ageing of float and contacts unknown, installed untested | Completely disassembled, cleaned and inspected |
| Resistance wire worn or aged, gauge inaccurate | New genuine resistance wire fitted |
| Wiper and plug contacts oxidized or worn | Wiper and plug contacts reworked |
How can you tell a defective fuel level sender?
- Fuel gauge shows an incorrect or fluctuating fill level
- Fuel gauge needle sticks or moves erratically
- Reserve warning light does not switch on, or stays on permanently
- Gauge stays permanently on full or empty
Compatible vehicles
W116 S-Class (09/1972–1980):
- 280 S (116.020)
- 280 SE, SEL (116.024/025)
- 350 SE, SEL (116.028/029)
- 450 SE (116.032)
- 450 SEL (116.033)
- 450 SEL 6.9 (116.036)
- 300 SD (116.120)
The part number of this fuel level sender is 1165420304 (Mercedes number 116 542 03 04). Identification is via the VDO group marking 817/10/1 on the dip tube, which corresponds to VDO number 224-817-010-005R; the dip tube also carries the date code 2.74.
⚠ Important: compare the part number before buying
Please compare the part number and tube length: identification is via the VDO group marking 817/10/1 on the dip tube, which corresponds to VDO number 224-817-010-005R and therefore Mercedes number 116 542 03 04. The dip tube also carries the date code 2.74. Please compare the number and tube length of your old sender 1:1 before buying.
Does not fit:
- W123, W126 and W124 – separate part numbers with a different tube length
- W108/W109 and W114/W115 (/8) – different flange mounting
- R107 from 08/1976 (107 542 08 04)
- Aftermarket parts from third-party suppliers
Does this part fit your car? Send us the VIN (chassis number) and model year – we'll check it for free: 0179 8991069 (Mon–Fri 8 am–6 pm) or via our contact form.
FAQ
What's included in the scope of delivery?
The exact scope of delivery is shown in the product photos.
How can I tell whether this fuel level sender fits my W116?
Identification is via the VDO group marking 817/10/1 on the dip tube (VDO number 224-817-010-005R, Mercedes number 116 542 03 04) as well as the date code 2.74 on the dip tube. Compare the number and tube length of your old sender before buying, or send us your chassis number and model year for a free check.
Can I return the part if it doesn't fit?
Yes, a 60-day return policy applies.
Related categories: W116, Fuel system & injection
KFZTeile-Thot specialises in spare parts for Mercedes classic cars. Free shipping within Germany, 60-day return policy.
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