Mercedes-Benz E300 Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your Mercedes-Benz E300 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Mercedes-Benz E300 engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a Mercedes-Benz E300 engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

Troubleshooting Engine Stalling in a Mercedes-Benz E300

When faced with engine stalling in your Mercedes-Benz E300, a systematic diagnostic approach is essential for identifying and resolving the issue. Start by inspecting the simplest components first, such as the air filter and fuel supply. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow, leading to stalling, while a malfunctioning fuel pump may prevent adequate fuel delivery. Next, examine the ignition system, including spark plugs and ignition coils, as these are critical for engine performance. If these initial checks do not reveal the problem, proceed to assess the mass air flow sensor, which plays a vital role in regulating the air-fuel mixture. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner can also provide valuable diagnostic trouble codes that pinpoint specific issues. By following this methodical approach, you can efficiently diagnose and address the root cause of engine stalling, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and reliably.

What Are the Common Causes of Engine Stalling in a Mercedes-Benz E300?

When experiencing engine stalling in a Mercedes-Benz E300, it's essential to consider several common problems that may be at play. One of the primary culprits is the fuel system, which can suffer from issues such as a failing fuel pump or clogged fuel filters, leading to inadequate fuel delivery to the engine. Additionally, the air intake system plays a critical role; a dirty air filter or malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, causing the engine to stall. The ignition system is another vital area to inspect, as faulty spark plugs or ignition coils can prevent the engine from firing correctly. Stalling can occur under various conditions, whether the vehicle is idling or cruising at higher speeds, making it crucial to conduct a thorough examination of these systems. By understanding these common causes, DIYers can take the first steps toward diagnosing and fixing the stalling issue, ensuring their Mercedes-Benz E300 runs smoothly and reliably.

Why is the Engine Stalling in a Mercedes-Benz E300?

When experiencing engine stalling in your Mercedes-Benz E300, it is crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid serious safety risks and potential damage to your vehicle. Common culprits such as a faulty ignition system, fuel pump failure, or issues within the air intake system can lead to unexpected stalls, particularly when you are navigating busy roads or intersections. Ignoring these symptoms not only compromises your safety but can also escalate the problem, leading to more extensive repairs and higher costs. For instance, early models of the 2017 E300 have been reported to have wiring issues that could result in stalling, which underscores the importance of staying vigilant. Additionally, if you encounter error messages like "Check Engine Electronics," it is a clear signal that immediate attention is needed. By understanding these potential causes and their implications, you can take proactive steps to diagnose and resolve the issue, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.

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Mercedes-Benz E300 Engine Stalling: Causes & Repairs