1997 E320 Won't Start after engine shut off.

[sswender]

My 1997 E320 (107k miles) often will not start after it has been driven and the engine is cut off. It will usually start up after 15-20 minutes although it once took 45 minutes before starting. It has also died while idling in traffic and the idling may seem unsteady. I have had an excellent independent mechanic working on it but he cannot pinpoint a problem. Codes include Electric Traction Support when it dies, also a check engine electronics which has been on for 2 years due to a problem with a secondary exhaust fan problem. New battery did not solve problem. also, a part of a computer module had to be replaced because it burnt up. mechanic fixed cooling problem. he says no computer problems. When it doesn't start, it turns over and sounds normal but will not fire (start).

Any help would be greatly appreciated. I have to move in a couple of weeks and nobody seems to know what is wrong or how to fix it.

Thank you.

 

[Arv]

I have had similar thing happen on my 94 C280 and the problem was
the Overload Voltage Protection relay which is located where all the
electronic control modules are located. It is a long square, transperent
plasticy looking and has a fuse on the top (at least for C280). Have
this checked. In my case, this relay was malfunctioning.

If it is not this, have the mechanic check the wiring harness under the
dash.

Hope this helps.

Good luck,
Arv

 

[sswender]

Thank you very much for your reply.