99 E300td

How long should the glow plugs last before needing replacement?

I Just hit 55k and have to replace the other 5 @ 680.00. I was under the impression they went about 100k.

[LightMan]

I still have all the original glowplugs with no probs at 43k, knock on burlwood. My mom has a '99 E300 as well, and at 37k she had one replaced. The are supposed to do about 100k, although others have had to replace them more frequently. The injectors are the same way. If you use poor quality fuel they won't last long.

[Rick Miley]

I'm on my 3rd set already at 78,000 miles.

[BJ300SDL]

680$ for Glow plugs!!!!

By the way, How do you people like your next generation diesel?

I heard the99' e300d is awesome.

[barkford]

Depending on your "in service" date and mileage, are you still under factory warranty?

Had glow plugs replaced on my 98 under factory warranty.

[Diesel-Lover]

I am in the process of considering one.
From my understanding ASR is standard on these but ESP electronic slip control is optional. Where is the switch for this located and can you tell by the vin number if the car has it.
One final Q, what is the switch by the shift lever with a W and S on it.
Thanks in advance.

It is my understanding the "W" position is to be used under snowy / slippery conditions. I believe it starts the vehicle in 2nd gear to minimize slippage.

[Diesel-Lover]

Thanks again SpannMan,

I understand the S and W now but am still fuzzy on the ESP switch and its marking. Must say wish there was a doc site with pics of the mods and labels on the controls like in the Omanuals for those looking for the cars of choice. Or perhaps the full owners manual of each model year to increase the following of the model!

[Rick Miley]

When I start reading this forum, I go to the oldest post since my last visit and read forward. Diesel-Lover, this is the third time you've asked the same questions. Please give us a little time to reply.

[Rick Miley]

If they go bad under the original 4 year 50,000 mile warranty (USA) they will be replaced at no charge. But they are NOT COVERED under the extended warranty from Mercedes-Benz. I just found that out to the tune of $540, with my 10% club discount. The intake manifold has to come off to get to them. On the bright side, they cleaned the EGR gunk from the inside of the manifold while it was off. The glow plugs are listed on Fastlane at 1/2 what the dealer charges, so I'll do them myself next time.

As for why they don't last long, I suspect that it is because the relay keeps them on for a while after the engine is started. Makes for a nice even idle when cold, but probably not so great for the plugs.

[searaypaul]

I just replaced my glow plugs at 85000 miles. The cost was about 325 dollars. My glow plugs were fine until the relay stuck. Oh well.

Have a great day


Paul
1999 E300D 85000

[Diesel-Lover]

SORRY

[LightMan]

The W&S are winter or standard/summer settings for the transmission. It starts the car in 2nd gear going forward, and there is actually a 2nd reverse gear as well, for increased traction.

I have loved my '99 E300 so far, and would recommend one to anyone...they are so smooth and quiet..(provided you run good fuel)..

[kwmccauley]

I have 93k on my 99E300 turbodiesel with the original glow plugs. What are the symptoms of one plug failing ?

Thanks,
Ken