2000 ML 320

Got home from a 3 hour trip last night. This morning, the wife tried starting the car and it would only turn over without firing. I had her try it several times for several seconds each time. Remembering a consistent problem we used to have when we washed her old Maxima (car would flood if started and immediately shut off), I had her try holding the gas pedal down and starting it. On the second try with the pedal down, it finally started and ran fine. She says that she doesn't remember it stumbling once it started. It has died on me once before after this same trip several months ago. We made a quick stop at the end of our trip and while backing up and turning the wheel (power steering load), a low idle allowed the engine to die. Other than that, there have been no other symptoms of trouble at all.

Would a situation like this result in any error codes that can be pulled?

Thanks a ton in advance.

I don't think any error codes will show up since I dont' think there will be a check engine light.. did you try jump starting the battery? it could be just a simple battery problem or defective starter.. but i recommend you call road side assistant since your ml is still so new and underwarranty.. it will be free to fix.. and they will come to you...

First thing that comes to mind is that there was no start authorization. This can be caused by a bad key, or antenna coil around the ignition switch. Without start authorization, the engine will crank, but not start. Are you aware of the "tip start" feature? It seems like possibly not, as you said you asked her to try starting it for several seconds on each attempt.
There may possibly be related codes in AAM/AAM2, and maybe the engine control module as well.
Other possiblities are the fuel filter (which also acts as the fuel pressure regulator on this truck) and also possibly the fuel pump.
If it happens again, have the other key available to try.

Gilly

Thanks for the clues and tips.

By the way....what is "tip start"?