This is my first post here; thanks in advance for any advice!
I have a 2008 v6 (love it too much) but recently I noticed that the lights on my car (interior and headlights) flicker randomly when the car is on idle; they won't go off completely but dim in an out.
Have you guys experienced this problem before? can you guys give me some advice on what to check before going to the dealer (I have a feeling that they will rape me with labor fees)
Thanks!

 

That would be a sign of fluctuating voltage but if the alternator's voltage output was erratic the battery (if THAT was healthy) should smooth it out where it wouldn't be too noticeable.

I suggest you have your alternator and battery load tested. Both are known weak links on these S197's.

 

Do check your carpet, especially on the passenger's side for any signs of moisture. Even pull the carpet back some from the top and feel behind the pad. It could be a leak causing havoc. If you do a search in the search box on water leaks, you'll see hundreds on the subject.
I hope that is not your case.

 

Don't scare the newb...

 

Not trying to.
So far I have not been plagued with the dreaded leak, but then again I do not drive my car in the rain either.

 

uhh its been raining around here! ok I will check the carpet and get the alternator an battery load tested thanks guys!

 

Thought that water on the floor TSB was on 05's??

 

Nope, plagues s197 '05-'09, not sure about '10+

 

I'm going to check the voltage from the battery and alternator tomorrow; today I let the car on idle with the lights on; obviously it still doing the same; but when I accelerate the lights work perfectly.

 

Simply checking voltage is a start but you really need to have a load test done. A "frail" charging system can still look good to a voltmeter.