W204 power loss

BVF

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Hi all. I have a 59 plate C200CDI that suddenly loses power while cruising at Motorway speeds. This lasts a few seconds, then all is ok again for 5-10 minutes then it will happen again, but not EVERY trip. Bizarre.
There are no indications on the dash or service display to say anything is wrong. Its a bit un-nerving when you're overtaking wagons let me tell you!
Only thing I had recently was a bit of juddering on a start up after leaving it for 3 hours. Engine management light came on, but after a couple of revs it ran ok.
The light stayed on for the 30 minute journey following this. I turned it off, took the key out, left it for 5 minutes then started it. The light went out. Ever since I've had the above problem.

Any thoughts appreciated.

Cheers.
 

grober

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MAYBE A FUEL CONTAMINATION PROBLEM?
 
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BVF

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MAYBE A FUEL CONTAMINATION PROBLEM?

That was my initial thought, so I ran the tank virtually dry then brimmed it with BP Optiwotsit, or whatever its called! 90 quids worth anyway.
Same.
 
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Hi all.

Problem has now progressed to complete power loss, with the skidding car picture on the dashboard that someone else posted a pic of. I coasted to a halt, key out for a minute, then power came back BUT with engine management light permanently lit.

Any ideas please?!
 

Corned

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Something needs fixing. You need to get the fault codes read. Something is wrong somewhere and as you have discovered, it is not going to fix itself.

The ESP malfunction means it might not be the engine which is actually having the problem. It could be brakes/wheels rather than engine, but you (like the rest of us) will be guessing until you get the codes read.
 
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BVF

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Bitten the bullet & taken it to MB.
They reckon there are a number of faults showing on the diagnostic.
A wiring fault being one, which has led to a knackered ecu.
Cutting a long story short, £1615.24!

I hate the feeling of being held over a barrel.
I'm furious!
 

Corned

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Your local indie might give you a second (i.e. cheaper) opinion.
 
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BVF

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Your local indie might give you a second (i.e. cheaper) opinion.

Trouble with that of course is that I'll void my Mobilo cover etc.
 

Steve@Avantgarde

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Trouble with that of course is that I'll void my Mobilo cover etc.

Not for repairs it wont. It is only void if an Indie is servicing your vehicle and even then the money you could save on service could buy a good breakdown cover.....

Nothing stopping you having any repairs at an indie.
 
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BVF

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Being given the run around.

Was told yesterday that it was a knackered ECU which would cost £1615 incl the 2.5hr diagnoses and investigation costs.

They left the battery off all night and when they put it back on today the fault has changed to "Fuel temp sensor". (£166.80) with the ECU as a stored fault.
Their 'Technician' suggests changing that to see if it cures the fault. If not, its the £166 PLUS £1255.20 for the ECU!
I'm not convinced the Temp sensor is the real fault and I'll end up paying £166 for a part I don't need.

I feel I'm being taken for a ride. They can't even supply me with a courtesy car as "they have to be booked 3 weeks in advance". I've never heard anything like it in my 20+ years of driving!

Anyone got any thoughts on their verdict?
Do you think they're right?

They seem to think I'm made of money.
 

grober

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For £166 its probably worth a punt. If that doesn't cure it - time to take stock before spending any more money. You may then wish to consider changing MB agents.
 

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... or listen to posts #7 and #9....
 
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BVF

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For £166 its probably worth a punt. If that doesn't cure it - time to take stock before spending any more money. You may then wish to consider changing MB agents.

Those were my thoughts to be honest.
 

st4

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Is it common the ECU goes, I suspect its a more minor fault that the £166 will fix.

If not, use another garage, the courtesy car thing is a load of baws and you'll find a place that will treat your custom more seriously, or take it to a specialist in the area?
 

o2der1

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Does anyone know if this was ever fixed..? And if yes how...?
I`m having the very same problem..!
 

Grey

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looking a bit commmon

my car has started to do this for 4 months since a warranty recall for front airbag activation sensor. is this linked?
 


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