After going to Walmart it took three tries for my wife to start her 2000 ML320. It started and drove fine for me when I checked it out. Five minutes later I hop in and it won't start. I tried many, many times and it still won't start. The starter turns over like it should but no start. I have tried two keys with the same result.

I also noticed that there is a buzzing noise coming from behind the engine cowling on the passenger side for several minutes after I try to start it. It sounds like a small motor is running, not just a clicking sound like I've seen posted about on another thread.


Any ideas what the problem could be?



P.S.

I bought this piece of junk used. If I can ever get it started I have to take it to get the catalytic converter fixed. It's got the cracked weld so many of them seem to get. They say they'll fix it free unless something has hit it. I'll bet they'll find a reason not to fix it.

I also got the recall notice for the harmonic balancer problem. It said that there would be noticable signs before it failed (I assume they mean vibration). I'm wondering if the vibration from the faulty HB could be causing the cracked catalytic converters.


Anyway, if I ever get all this stuff fixed I'm getting rid of this piece of crap and I'll never buy another Mercedes as long as I live.

Thanks for listening to me vent.

 

Its prabably your crank position sensor. When they get hot they go open and the computer doesnt know where the engine is at, so it doesnt start. When the car cools back down thay start to work again.

 

Like MBZTech said, I'd check the crank position sensor first.

You sound pretty bitter about your Benz.

Has it been giving you a lot of problems ?

I have an ML as well and it's been an awesome vehicle. I do all my own maintenance though, so therefore I'm not paying a dealer $135 per hour to "play" with it either.

I bought mine used and it's been great ! Only wish it had Navagation in it. (might have to add an after market unit)

Just curious if it was only the two problems you've mentioned (well three if you count the harmonic balancer problem)?

I'd go to a muffler shop and see if they can/will weld the cat for you, I wouldn't expect the dealer to even try to fix it, they'll allways go the easiest/most expensive route.

The only reason I ask, is that sometimes when people don't understand the vehicle they are working on it can get extremely fustrating. If you need help with it please don't hesitate to ask.

 

With regard to the cracked welds on the cats, it cost me £300 to have both sides removed, welded and replaced.
MB quoted near to £2000.

 

I had a similart problem w/ my 99 ML430. Turned out to be the Fuel Pump and upgraded line assembly.

Now, the the driver side window won't roll up. I hear it's the switch... Other than those two things the car has been okay so far.