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The car shuts off while driving.

71K views 68 replies 15 participants last post by  rough benz  
#1 · (Edited)
2001 E320 4matic wagon. the problem rose just few days ago. it just shut off while at a stop light, also shuts off while driving . it cranks but does not run, after an hour or so it starts and runs for a little while and then dies again, starts back on and runs after an hour. I have changed the fuel pump but no effect. I've been getting message "service passed due 45 days"(did service but the dealer did not reset the service indicator. Also, the engine light been on for several months, could it be mass air flow sensor that causes this problem? I appreciate your inputs. :bowdown:
 
#5 ·
Also, the engine light been on for several months, could it be mass air flow sensor that causes this problem? I appreciate your inputs. :bowdown:
If I was your car, I would also go on strike. :mad:
 
#6 ·
Please understand we are talking about the Bosch brand CPS sensor (from a reputable internet source like autohausaz.com) if you buy that part at a local retail auto parts store (or eBay) non-Bosch sensors are China made and really a sh*t part.

On your CEL light (not related to CPS since CPS sensor failure most cases does not setoff a CEL light) - you need the "codes" read (non-Mercedes read can do for a start) and by posting that code(s) we can give better advance that issue.

Keep the faith !
 
#8 ·
CPS and tool

At the top of this forum are the "stickies" (worthwhile documented DIY instructions that "stick" around).

There will be a DIY for the CPS - get the Bosch part on order, get it in, then collect the right bit/extensions to do this job - requires patience and small hands.

On the diagnostic scanner - check your local retail auto parts stores, who often will either "scan" codes for free (have paper and pen to write them down) or "rent" you a scanner for a fully refundable rental fee so you can scan in their parking lot.

A basic code reader is like $22 from on-line sources - and small enough to fit in the glove compartment:

U380 OBDII OBD2 EOBD Engine Scanner Trouble Code Reader | eBay
 
#10 ·
If it's dripping oil, you have problems. A thin oil film of it is very common (the rear mains on these engines all weep a bit of oil after a certain point and the flex plate slings it).

Please click user cp and edit details to add your vehicle and location to your profile, it's often useful information when you're seeking assistance.

Good luck.
 
#11 ·
Oh, and get the codes read. In the US and outside of CA Autozone and many other parts places will read them for free, or buy a small one to have on hand.
 
#12 ·
Thank you all for your input> I run the scan and got "P0335 Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction", as most of you had indicated. Part would arrive tomorrow MB 003-153-2828 $43+shipping. Also took the faulty part out and measured resistance, came to be around 1100 Ohm, I think an undamaged CPS should not measure more than 700 Ohm. Removing the CPS on this car was quit easy, 5 minutes, required a Thorax E 8. Hopefully I will report the success tomorrow when the new part is installed.
 
#13 ·
Dimbol

Did your problem begin with the car having a hard time starting? My wife who usually drives this car has told me that it has happened 2 or 3 times. Today the car took 2 tries before it started. While we were in the city, the car died while running. It took 5 tries before the car started. I was able to drive the car home with no additional problem.
Check with an OB scanner and no code was found. Possible CPS failure??
 
#14 ·
Hi Jaman, My car just did one day when I was waiting for my kid to get in. I hear when the PCS could go faulty the car just dies while running and would not restart even after few attempts. most people have to wait for the car to cool down and then it would fire again. Sometimes the ODB II scanner may not detect a code, and the symptoms my gradually progress. I would take the CPS out and run the resistance test. I am sure many others on this forum can give you better advise though. Good Luck
 
#17 ·
My 2001 E320 Sedan shuts off while driving. Took it to Autozone to run free diagnostic. Code given PO221, Throttle pedal position TPP sensor/switch "B" circuit range/performance... Explanation Open or short circuit condition... Probable cause Poor electrical connection; Faulty TPP sensor; Faulty throttle value control module.
I put Sea Foam in the gas tank and my car has not cut off since/yet. Going to take to mechanic with code information mentioned above to see what's going on. I'm thinking it's dirty sensors, a loose connection or an extremely dirty fuel filter, but we'll see.
 
#21 ·