C-Class (W202) 1995-2000: C 200 CDI, C 220 CDI, C 270 CDI, C 180, C 200 K,C 230 K, C 220, C230, C 280

Hesitant Starting

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Old Jun 17, 2004 | 07:32 AM
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1996 C280
Hesitant Starting

I've been having some problems lately with slow starting. Every once in awhile, it will take the engine several revolutions before it turns over. My guess is the fuel filter, which an MB-knowledgable friend of mine suggested I change a long time ago. It runs fine after startup. By the way, anyone changed the fuel filter? Its a 95 C280. Thanks
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Old Jun 17, 2004 | 10:54 AM
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From: San Antonio, Texas
2016 BMW Z4 sDrive35i M Sport
I had trouble starting my engine (95 C 280) a couple months ago. It was very intermittent for a while and then it became a little more common. Turned out to be my MAS going out. Just an observation, so don't get too nervous.
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Old Jun 17, 2004 | 12:46 PM
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fuel filter should be changed at major services...if it's clogged, less fuel gets to the engine and like you said, may cause harder starts.

Mine was changed at the 120k major service (which was done at 114k).
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Old Jun 18, 2004 | 04:34 PM
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1996 C280
Ew, from what I hear the MAF is quite pricey. Doug, did you change your filter yourself? I've never done it on this car.
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Old Jun 18, 2004 | 04:58 PM
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MAF is pricey if you have the dealer do the job for you...about $~600-$650.

You can do it yourself in 10 minutes or less, just a couple of clamps to loosen and swap out. Part is about $200-$250 and your all set!
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Old Jun 20, 2004 | 08:58 PM
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1996 C280
Yeah, I would definitely do it myself.
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Old Jun 21, 2004 | 07:55 PM
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1996 C280
Well, I think I'll start off by trying some cheap fixes like the air filter, plugs, and maybe the fuel pressure regulator. And if it comes to the MAF, I think I can get one for free or at least very cheap from a Mercedes guy i know. Besides those things, can anyone think of any other possible causes? Thanks
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Old Jun 21, 2004 | 08:35 PM
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I would not spend a dime on changing the Air Mass Meter unless you have properly diagnosed that as the problem. I can't recall if the 95's are OBD-II. Are you throwing a CE light? If so, you'll have to get the codes to begin your diagnosis.

A faulty fuel pressure regulator or AMM usually causing rough idle problems, not just starting problems. Some things might be...

1. Tune up parts like plugs and wires. Are you getting any off-idle hesitation? There are also potential wiring harness problems with that car, and if memory serves, the 95 C280's also had a faulty OVP.

2. Fuel filter.

3. Battery/starter. If your battery is down a bit, it might have a lsightly slower crank speed, and will take a few extra turns to fire.
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Old Jun 22, 2004 | 05:58 AM
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1996 C280
I hadn't even thought of the battery (duh). I am definitely going to try the plugs and fuel filter first. There's no CEL, no rough idle, just some occasional long starts. I'll see what happens.
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