All of our MB vehicles start more or less instantly when they crank. My daughters 2008 ML did as well - until recently. The car cranks (nice and fast) but does not start for anywhere from 2-5 seconds or more. No "almost" catching during that time. It just cranks as though there is no fuel, and then decides to start perfectly - but after too many seconds of cranking. As I say, this is new behaviour.

The car is not throwing any codes - the scan comes up clean on my iCarsoft MB 3.0.

Any suggestions on what to look for?

I searched around and didn't find this posted anywhere - apologies if I missed it.

Thank you all so much!

 

What flavor engine is this '08?

 

I had gl450 2007 and happened like that. I changed new battery and new fuel pump but didn’t help.

The problem solved until the starter failed ( didn’t seem like a starter problem) but starting 1st try every time after replacing new starter.

 

So sorry - kind of important. It is the 6 cyl (M272).

Thank you!

 

Wow - I'd have never guessed a starter (unless it was cranking slowly - which this one does not seem to be doing). But thank you - very interesting.

 

I would start with Replacing Crankshaft and Camshaft sensors. One that is still working but on its way out will exhibit non running conditions and may not throw a code until its gone kaput. Their cheap insurance and alot easier to do in your garage with a cold engine rather than stuck in the middle of nowhere with a hot one.

My m113 did something similar, sometimes would start immediately, other times would take a good 5 seconds before catching. Camshaft sensor seems to have done the trick. Also no codes when it was acting up.

 

Thank you. Camshaft sensors look easy to replace and relatively cheap to buy. So I can give those a go first (before crank) and see if it helps!

Many thanks for the tip.

 

@MurrayG Let us know what happens. I have the same issue with my 2006 ML350 3.5L V6 SUV. thx!