How to Perform a Throttle Relearn on Your Maybach
If you own a Maybach, you may eventually need to perform a throttle relearn procedure. This is necessary when the electronic throttle control (ETC) system loses synchronization between the accelerator pedal position sensor and throttle valve position sensor. Performing a throttle relearn ensures the ETC system is properly calibrated for optimal performance and drivability.
What is a Throttle Relearn?
In modern Maybach vehicles equipped with electronic throttle control, there is no physical cable connecting the accelerator pedal to the throttle body. Instead, the throttle is controlled electronically based on input from the accelerator pedal position sensor (APS). The engine control module (ECM) monitors the APS and commands the throttle control motor to open or close the throttle valve accordingly.
Over time, the correlation between the APS and actual throttle valve position can fall out of sync due to carbon buildup, wear, or electronic faults. This can lead to poor throttle response, rough idle, hesitation, or surging. A throttle relearn procedure recalibrates the ETC system so the ECM knows the precise throttle valve position for any given accelerator pedal input.
When is a Throttle Relearn Needed?
You should perform a throttle relearn on your Maybach if you experience any of these symptoms:
- Rough or unstable idle
- Poor throttle response or hesitation
- Engine surging or hunting at steady speeds
- Check engine light related to ETC faults
A throttle relearn is also required after:
- Replacing the accelerator pedal position sensor
- Replacing the throttle body or throttle position sensor
- Disconnecting the throttle body electrical connector
- Disconnecting the vehicle battery
- Clearing fault codes related to the ETC system
Applicable Maybach Models
The throttle relearn procedure applies to these Maybach models equipped with electronic throttle control:
- Maybach 57 and 57S (2002-2012)
- Maybach 62 and 62S (2002-2012)
- Mercedes-Maybach S 500/S 550/S 560 (2015-present)
- Mercedes-Maybach S 600/S 650 (2015-present)
- Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 (2021-present)
- Mercedes-Maybach S 580 (2021-present)
Tools & Materials Needed
To perform a throttle relearn, you will need:
- A compatible OBD-II scan tool with bidirectional control capability
- The security access code for your Maybach’s ECM (obtained from the dealer)
Step-by-Step Throttle Relearn Tutorial
Follow these steps to relearn the throttle on your Maybach:
- Warm up the engine to normal operating temperature (coolant temp at least 176°F/80°C).
- Turn off all accessories and set the climate control to the off position.
- Connect your scan tool to the OBD-II port under the dashboard. Turn the ignition on but do not start the engine.
- Navigate to the engine control module in your scan tool menu. Select “Throttle Adaptation” or “Throttle Relearn”.
- The scan tool will prompt you for the ECM security access code. Enter the code.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to perform the relearn. The basic steps are:
- Press and hold the accelerator pedal to wide open throttle (WOT) for 2-3 seconds
- Fully release the accelerator pedal and wait 2-3 seconds
- Press and hold the accelerator pedal to WOT again for 2-3 seconds
- Fully release the accelerator pedal
- If the relearn is successful, the scan tool will display a confirmation message. If it fails, it will provide an error code indicating the problem. Consult the factory service information for troubleshooting failed relearn attempts.
- Turn off the ignition and disconnect the scan tool. The throttle relearn is complete. Road test the vehicle to verify proper operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I perform a Maybach throttle relearn at home?
Performing a throttle relearn on a Maybach requires a professional scan tool with bidirectional control capability and the security access code for the engine control module. For these reasons, it is recommended to have the procedure performed by a certified Maybach technician.
How much does a Maybach throttle relearn cost?
If performed by a dealership or independent Maybach specialist, a throttle relearn typically costs between $100-$200 including diagnosis. The exact cost depends on local labor rates.
What happens if I don’t perform a throttle relearn when needed?
Failing to perform a throttle relearn when necessary can result in continued drivability issues such as poor throttle response, rough idle, hesitation, and surging. In some cases, it may trigger a check engine light and place the vehicle in a failsafe “limp home” mode with reduced power. Long term, it can cause premature wear of engine and transmission components.
How often do I need to perform a throttle relearn?
Under normal circumstances, a throttle relearn should not be necessary as regular maintenance. However, a relearn may be needed whenever the battery is disconnected, the ECM is reflashed, or components related to the electronic throttle control system are replaced. If you experience drivability issues, a Maybach technician can determine if a throttle relearn is required.
Conclusion
A throttle relearn is a critical procedure to restore proper operation of the electronic throttle control system on Maybach vehicles. It ensures the precise correlation between accelerator pedal position and throttle valve position for optimal performance, emissions, and drivability.