My girlfriends 1998 300e is extremely difficult to start. It turns over just fine, but refuses to catch. It sounds to me like a fuel delivery issue. It is even worse when the weather is cold. Then, it is a race to see which comes first, a start, or a dead battery. In addition, once started, it runs REALLY rough and idles very slowly for the first 5 min. or so. Does anyone have any suggestions?

 

HI first check glow plugs. and leak off pipes. if theres air getting in she will not start..