Hi all, having a unique problem starting my car.

My car is a PZEV and was having issues starting the car. Before replacing the tank, it would crank and eventually start after a few cycles.
- replaced crankshaft sensor - no change
- got fuel tank replaced - I’m over on date on the 15 year/150k extension. MBUSA wouldn’t help and no managers will call me back.
- car is starting better most of the time. However if I turn it off and remove the key, go to start it 20 min later it will start-ish and then die within 5 seconds.
- replaced fuel pump relay
- getting over 12v on the sending unit wiring, just waiting for it to happen again to see about voltage when it dies.

Am I missing anything else?

What trouble codes do you have?

unfortunately not getting any!

Maybe your MAF sensor? I’ve cleaned mine and the throttle body the other day, and didn’t dry it enough, on first start, it started and then died. But it started fine just after. Maybe your maf is too dirty. Just a thought, im no expert.

How much fuel in the tank? Below half, or above?

if you take the air box off, and spray the throttle body with some starting fluid, will it start? If it does, it is a fuel delivery issue; otherwise, it is am ignition issue.

But, the first advice is always scan for codes with MB specific scanner, check fuel levels with scanner not the cluster

MAF sound set off a CEL tho

it’ll always start but it either will take awhile, fire right up, or immediately die. It’s weird.

This model year is susceptible to engine control unit failure. Next time it cranks and doesn't start, open the hood and tap several times on the engine control unit with a hammer or your fist. That's the part on top of the engine that looks like a George Foreman grill.

thanks. I shook that but didn’t feel anything loose at all, which is good.