mtrevelino

I just purchased a 2006 E320 CDI. My wife has a bad habit of just turning the key without waiting for the glow plug light to turn off. Can this cause any problems anywhere?

I noticed that even if the car is cold, the light will only stay on for a couple of seconds.
Thank you,
Mike T.

dgiturbo

I know of lots of CDI owners here and in Europe who crank right away without waiting for the light. Never heard of any complaints, and most of these vehicles are up over 60K miles. (Remember the CDI system is also used in various emergency vehicles and taxis around the world, so waiting is not an option.)
Personally, I usually crank without waiting, but on a really cold day, say below 20F, I will wait on the light as I find it starts a little easier then. Otherwise, on a normal temperature day, I just turn the key.

From what I understand, these motors use a ceramic style "glow plug" that gets to full heat in a fraction of a second, so by the time you turn to the start position, it is already hot and ready.
Enjoy.

Carsy

I think it is better practice to wait a second or two before starting. It could save a little wear & tear on your ring gear,starter motor & battery if the engine starts immediately instead of cranking for a few revolutions.

I like to turn the ignition on, strap into my seatbelt then crank over .

240D 3.0T

At the very least, waiting 2 seconds allows the fuel pump to fully pressurize the system.

mtrevelino

Thanks everyone! Yesterday, my wife was a little more "aware" when she started the car. It just take training your mind to do things a little different.
Mike T.