1995 Mercedes-Benz E320 Engine Is Stalling

Resolve engine stalling in your 1995 Mercedes-Benz E320.

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
0%
15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
0%
55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 1995 Mercedes-Benz E320 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 1995 Mercedes-Benz E320 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.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a stalling issue in a 1995 Mercedes-Benz E320?

When addressing a stalling issue in your 1995 Mercedes-Benz E320, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by determining which critical component—spark, fuel, or battery voltage—ceases to function when the vehicle stalls. This initial assessment will guide you toward the most likely cause of the problem. Next, thoroughly inspect the fuel system, air intake system, and ignition system for any signs of malfunction. Pay particular attention to the Crank Position Sensor, as its failure is a common culprit in stalling or no-start scenarios for this model. By systematically evaluating these components, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the stalling issue and take the necessary steps to resolve it, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly once again.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 1995 Mercedes-Benz E320?

When troubleshooting engine stalling in a 1995 Mercedes-Benz E320, it's crucial to consider several common problems that may be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty mass airflow sensor, which can disrupt the delicate balance of air and fuel, leading to stalling. Additionally, issues with the fuel pump, such as inadequate fuel pressure or a failing unit, can prevent the engine from receiving the necessary fuel, resulting in stalling. The ignition system also plays a vital role; malfunctioning components like spark plugs, ignition coils, or the ignition control module can cause the engine to misfire and stall. Furthermore, vacuum leaks can significantly impact engine performance by disrupting the air intake, while a failing crankshaft position sensor can affect timing and fuel delivery, leading to stalling. Lastly, dirty or clogged fuel injectors can hinder proper fuel delivery, exacerbating stalling issues. By understanding these potential problems, DIYers can take proactive steps to diagnose and address the underlying causes of engine stalling in their E320, ensuring a smoother and more reliable driving experience.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 1995 Mercedes-Benz E320?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 1995 Mercedes-Benz E320 is of utmost urgency due to the serious safety risks it poses. When an engine stalls unexpectedly, it can lead to a sudden loss of power, making it difficult to control the vehicle, especially in high-traffic situations or at high speeds. This not only endangers the driver and passengers but also other road users. Furthermore, neglecting this issue can result in more severe damage to the engine and its components, leading to costly repairs that could have been avoided with prompt attention. Engine stalling may also indicate deeper mechanical or electrical problems that require professional diagnosis and repair. Therefore, it is crucial for owners to prioritize resolving this issue to maintain the vehicle's reliability and ensure safe driving conditions.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.