intermittent starting problem, 97 E420. battery fine - Benzworld.org

ProV1x · 02-24-2007, 07:58 AM

this seems to occur after i've driven for a while, let the car sit for a few hours and then try to fire her up again. i would crank for 4-5 seconds but the car won't start. does not happen on a completely cold (overnight) engine.

anyone know what might be causing this? thanks

ssickler · 02-03-2008, 11:21 AM

I have the exact sam problem. Did you discover a solution?

carver · 02-16-2008, 08:46 AM

You can find a ton of threads for troubleshooting this problem. I went thru all of them replacing MAF, cranshaft sensor etc. etc. dealer finally had car not start and tech. found faulty fuel pump relay that was intermittent.... $40. part fixed it after months of troubleshooting and replacing DIY components. "99" e320.

Kajtek1 · 02-16-2008, 11:09 AM

It is easy to test the fuel pump by putting tester light to the fuse and see how the power go.
The symptoms of engine hard to start when hot and no problem with cold are common for leaky injectors. If the injector leaks fuel after stopping the engine, it floods the engine making it very hard to start soon after. Cold engine needs extra fuel to start, so this is fine.
Next time when that happens, push the gas pedal to the floor while cranking. That always worked on older cars with mechanical throttle. Can't guarantee what computer will do on those babies.