This morning, my wife's e320 lost normal power and the
check engine light came on exiting the freeway after a
15 minute commute. She does not know if the ASR light
came on. I do not think it is related, but last week
the CD player went on the blink.

My local dealer lost the Mercedes franchise so my
only option is a tow from Reno to Sacramento for
warranty service.

Finally, my question: What are the most likely
items I can check on a shade tree basis?

Darrell in Pompeii in the Sierras

MOST repair shops have OBD2 scan equiptment that can test for the check engine lamp! 1st thing to do.

Thanks mb doc.

When I picked up the car it was not in limp home
mode, just had an occasional stumble at idle.
The check engine light was on and the display reads
"check engine electronics." The dealer advises it
is not a problem to drive it 150 miles to
Sacramento because it is likely something so simple
as a leaking gas cap.

Sounds like its time to buy an OBD2 scantool now
that they are more reasonably priced.

Darrell