Well, it finally happened to me. After all these years of owning diesels and hearing other's misfortunes in the cold while never experiencing any of my own...it happened.

This morning it was 11*F in Allentown, PA. I was traveling overnight on business, checked out of the hotel, hopped into my car, and turned the key. There was a lot of cranking but no combustion.

I heard the relay switch go on and off. The glowplug light went on and off. There was no batttery dummy light on the dash. As far as I can see, there was nothing telling me that something was wrong. After several glows (10-12), she finally fired. Along with the ignition I was received a "check engine electronics" and "lamp out" message.

I have a few questions:

1) Why the trouble if there is no glow or fuel delivery issue (assuming such since no message while attempting to start the car)

2) I have started this car in colder temps this year without issue... why now?

3) Tech at MB (very helpful) said that the engine light may be due to 1) multiple attempts without a start 2) Low voltage from overloaded battery - How do I diagnose

4) How can I read the codes for this car?

5) Is there an underlying electrical issue causing my lights to go - I replace them often - and now this, coincidence?

PS - I run PowerService - Winter blend and use 5W-40 Rotella Sythetic

Thoughts are appreciated... Thanks.

__________________
1996 (W210) E300D 86K - Traded in for a Lexus
1992 (W124) 300D 2.5 Turbo 202K - Sold
1983 (W123) 300D, 146K - Sold
1970 280S, 263K - Sold - Beginning of addiction