M-Class (W163) Produced 1998-2005: ML 230, ML 320, ML 350, ML 400 CDI, ML 430, ML 500, ML 270 CDI

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Old Jul 14, 2006 | 10:23 PM
  #1  
pirinoe's Avatar
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ML 320
Question Start Error

Guys I am looking for some help.
I was having problems with the Check Engine light coming on and hesitation while accelerating. I also had the engine lose power and then all of a sudden it started back up. Reading the forums I found that I should replaced the MAF, which I did, and then took the truck out for an oil change. A day later I tried starting the truck and nothing. The engine cranks but I get a Start Error message. It seems to turn over fine but just doesn't start. Sorry for my non mechanical terminology. Any ideas? before i take it to the dealer? I have read that the Crank Position Sensor should be replaced.

Am I on the right track or should I take it to the dealer. I would love to save some $ but I am looking for advice.

thanks
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Old Jul 16, 2006 | 01:23 AM
  #2  
coretexity's Avatar
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99 ML 320, 02 Honda Civic LX
What Model Year is this ?
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Old Jul 16, 2006 | 01:35 PM
  #3  
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ML 320
Start Error

It is a 2000 ML320
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Old Jul 16, 2006 | 06:41 PM
  #4  
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2001 ML430
Take it into the dealer, have them check out whats wrong...most you pay is for diagnostics, and if you can DIY whatever they tell you the prob is, then DIY it.
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Old Jul 17, 2006 | 03:01 AM
  #5  
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98 ml 320, MGB GT V8 (FACTORY)RHD
Try a different key, could a transponder issue.
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Old Jul 17, 2006 | 07:27 AM
  #6  
azinn's Avatar
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From: In A Van Down By The River
2014 RX 350 F Sport, 2007 Scion tC, 2000 ML 430 Money Pit Finally Gone! Oh Happy Day!
Originally Posted by pirinoe
Guys I am looking for some help.
I was having problems with the Check Engine light coming on and hesitation while accelerating. I also had the engine lose power and then all of a sudden it started back up. Reading the forums I found that I should replaced the MAF, which I did, and then took the truck out for an oil change. A day later I tried starting the truck and nothing. The engine cranks but I get a Start Error message. It seems to turn over fine but just doesn't start. Sorry for my non mechanical terminology. Any ideas? before i take it to the dealer? I have read that the Crank Position Sensor should be replaced.

Am I on the right track or should I take it to the dealer. I would love to save some $ but I am looking for advice.

thanks
I would replace the CPS. When it fails it doesn't leave a code. Very common failure on the newer Mercedes engines. My 2 cents.
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Old Apr 18, 2007 | 09:39 AM
  #7  
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starting issues

I had similar problems with my '99 clk and when the dealer changed the mas sensor (air mass meter), the problems you describe dissappeared and no similar issues since. Good luck with this route!
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Old Apr 18, 2007 | 10:24 AM
  #8  
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98 Black C43 , 12’ ML 350 Blutec
Originally Posted by mercclkfan
I had similar problems with my '99 clk and when the dealer changed the mas sensor (air mass meter), the problems you describe dissappeared and no similar issues since. Good luck with this route!
He did this already....didn't you read his post?
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Old Apr 18, 2007 | 12:10 PM
  #9  
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ml320 & c240
Get a diagnostic check like benz nut mentioned before you waste money changing parts unnecessarly. It cound be cps or spark plugs and or wires or fuel filter. Good Luck.
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Old Apr 18, 2007 | 06:04 PM
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BMW E30. I've turned to the dark side.
if you are getting a "start error" message its not a CKP sensor. could be a key and possibly a DAS module - there is some DTB on the latter somewhere.
Go to your local dealer and let the experts fix it.
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Old Apr 19, 2007 | 10:45 AM
  #11  
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09 ML320, 07 BMW 335i, 03 SL500
could also be coil packs. this happened to me. see what codes your pulling, go to a independent shop and find out. most places do it for free.
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Old Apr 19, 2007 | 01:44 PM
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BMW E30. I've turned to the dark side.
Originally Posted by fizzle
could also be coil packs. this happened to me. see what codes your pulling, go to a independent shop and find out. most places do it for free.
bad coil packs will not cause the cluster to display 'start error" it is a DAS issue that can be caused by the things I mentioned earlier and also - and more often, a weak battery.
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