I've had some issues with the first part of your description - the no-start situation.

Next time you start the car keep an eye on the glowplug light immediately after you switch the ignition into position #2.

The glow plug cycle on the CDI's is very, very short but you should always see the light come on for at least quarter second before going out.

If you don't see the glow plug light and the car won't crank/start I've done some diagnosis that might be helpful.

I haven't experienced any of the other symptoms you've described so my info may not be relevant.

__________________
98 Dodge-Cummins pickup (137K)
13 GLK250 (157k)
06 E320CDI (341K)
16 C300 (89K)
82 300GD Gelaendewagen (54K)