I've been having tons of problems with my poor car (mostly issues with getting it started). We changed the oil, using rotella this time (didn't know we weren't supposed to use the $4 a gallon no-name from the parts store) and that helped. Replaced the battery and that helped. Now cycle the glow plugs 2-3 times and that helps. Unfortunately it's still hard to start, and it looks like the starter is beginning to fail. It will turn over a few times and then just buzz. After several attempts it usually turns over long enough to start up. While trying to start I'm giving it about 1/2 to 3/4 throttle. I've been told that when I'm trying to get it started it's okay to crank it for up to a minute - but I only began having problems with the starter since the cold weather/long cranking. Am I harming the starter? Also, I notice that the car is much easier to start when it has been started recently (within 8 hours or so) rather than sitting for a few days. There are times when I don't need to use the car for up to a week. Is it bad for the car to be used only once or twice a week? And, is it better or worse to try to take it out 3-4 times a week but only for a two minute drive across town? I know very short trips aren't great for the car. Here are the other issues I know I need to fix or keep an eye on: two leaking fuel injectors and leaky diesel prime pump, turbo beginning to leak oil, block heater not functional, possibly replace the glow plugs (they haven't been individually tested to confirm all working). I don't know how to prioritize these issues . . I'd love guidance and suggestions. I've always driven new japanese cars so the elderly MB diesel is rather baffling to me. Thank you, Hannah
- posted
18 years ago