[old5chool]

2000 E-430 MB 94,000 miles. Car started giving me trouble about 2 weeks ago. I switched from reg. gas to supreme. I thought it was a fuel issue. The car would not start one day. I would crank it and it would cut off about 7-8 seconds/would never start. Until I cranked it alot of times then I guess it cooled off and started. It happened about 3 times. Then it got worse. If I drove it anywhere then it wouldnt start until about 45 min later after I turned it off. Yesterday I drove it about 35 miles and the same thing happened. After about an hour I got it to start then I was driving it for about 4 miles and it just died on me on the street. Like it lost electrical power. I let it cool off like always and it would start (the engine would actually start) but it would turn off on me. I left it at the nearest mechanic shop and he said something about it being electrical but they havent had time to look at it. Something about a computer module. Anyways if you ever had this problem or have any info that would help me I would greatly appreciate it.

P.s I looked up Engine Computer Brain Box online and I have gotten very different prices anywhere from $99 dollars up to $1,900 dollars.

 

[Musikmann]

I have never had a similar experience with my Mercedes, but I did with another car. I took my Plymouth Horizon to a local Dodge dealer and they diagnosed it as clogged catalytic coverters. They replaced those under warranty (lucky me) and the car was doing the same thing. I ended up with a Chrysler-Plymouth dealer who said my spark plugs were "burned to the nubs" - go figure. Anyway, a set of new plugs solved my problem.

Hope this helps!

 

[old5chool]

Thank you so much for your input. I really think that, that might solve the problem since I havent change the spark plugs and They told me that the e-430 spark plugs give out right around this mileage. I really really thank you for the info. Thats why I love the internet.!!

 

[Musikmann]

OldSchool,

I certainly hope that is your problem, mainly because it won't cost you very much (at least compared to a lot of other things that might be wrong).

Even though we are talking about totally different cars, I swear to you, I could have written your post almost word-for-word about my little Plymouth's problems.

Good Luck!

 

[old5chool]

Found Out Crank Sensor

I found the problem. The car would start cold not hot. Its the crank sensor. Thank you guys for all your input and info. Cost me $480 to replace parts and labor.

 

[m-benz20708]

Too bad I read your post just today. I had a similar problem. It was the CPS. Bought one on the net and had it installed for a total of about $250. I live in the DC area.