Mike Ramsey

Have a 2000 e320. I was having fuel issues, maybe pump/injector, not sure. To get it to start a few times I had to let the starter turn a little bit and give it some gas pedal. So, mechanic tells me I burnt up the starter. Take it to the shop to replace starter and find out the fuel issue. The call me and say somehow by burning up the starter I locked up the engine in the process. They told me the car has a bad motor now? I do not understand. I had the car running minutes before the starter stopped working. Also, is that even possible? Can the starter burn up the motor or make it lock up? Thanks for your time, I have til tomorrow to figure this out.

kajtek1

Lock-up is not very precise word.
From what you saying, leaky injector could flood cylinder and do hydro-lock, but that should not destroy the engine.
Pulling spark plugs and checking compression would give pretty good answer.

Plutoe

You may want to get a second opinion as I can't see how a faulty starter will result in a bad motor------that assumes you are correctly reporting on the overall problem!!

Perhaps the mechanic will give you a more detailed diagnosis

Mike Ramsey

Locked up is not precise, I agree for sure! That is what they told me. I had 3 mechanic brothers, the all passed away. I know a solid amount about cars but not much about Mercedes. A few days ago they called and said it was just the starter and would be ready by that afternoon. Next call was that afternoon saying they put starter on and motor is locked-up. Now they have taken starter off and told me pick it up today and pay them $300 for their time.

I have used these guys before but it was for motor mounts and pulleys. I am a bit concerned they are in over their head. I really do not know what to do. It is a 2000 but it is in great shape. Interior is just about perfect, exterior really good. I know I got to pay the $300 and pick it up but not sure what I can do next? I do not think the motor is a problem at all. 1 crank before the starter went out it was running excellent, never a problem. Fluids always on the money. Any thoughts?

Plutoe

Put a starter in the car----take the plugs out------- turn the ignition key----what does it do!!

kajtek1

Before you will spend another $300 for starter reinstallation - you can try to turn the engine by hand with 1 plug on each cylinder removed.
It takes pretty big socket, but you should be able to do the test on your driveway.
Avoid turning opposite direction as those engines don't like it.