2002 C320 Wagon
~111,500 miles

6 months ago battery went dead. I take it in and find the alternator fried and battery completely empty. Alternator, alt. pulley and battery are replaced (BOSCH alt) and everything's good.

Fast forward to today and I'm experiencing the same nightmare all over again: Car is losing power when I come to a full stop and batt/alt error message has flashed a few times. It's progressively getting worse quickly.

Good news is parts and labor are guaranteed for up to 1 yr. so Im not out any money, but I just want to know what is causing this!

Here are a few side notes that may or may not help solve the mystery:

-- we plug in iPhone chargers and other electrical devices through an adapter while driving. My wife even recently used a heating pad. We read the manual and it sounded like we were ok not exceeding 12V, but I have a feeling this could have been tough on the battery. Please let me know what you think.

-- remote key signal has been dysfunctional for months, even after multiple attempts of fresh batteries and reprogramming. Infrared signal works intermittently and mechanical blade key unlocks every time. I think this has to do with the antenna amp located in the spoiler area, but just wanted to throw it out there.

I am taking this into the shop tomorrow, but would love to get everyone's opinion ASAP.

Thanks!

 

I got a battery/alternator light on but test it and battery is good and alternator is good