My 100k SEL has gradually gotten harder to start when cold. It now takes two attempts before it will stay running. Also, the idle has never been as smooth as it should be.
Problem number two is that when going over potholes I hear a distinct knocking noise coming from the front suspension. This has also gotten worse with time. I raised the car on my lift and checked for loose parts but couldn't find anything obvious.
Don't be afraid to go into detail. I have mechanical experience, just none with MB.

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On the start problem, I would check the EHA. IT is under the air filter housing on the side of the fuel distributor housing. It is the small black box that has two wires attached. If it is at all wet with fuel or has any signs of leakage, replace it soon.

On the front end, we see where the sway bar mount bolts come loose or fall out. These are the ones that are on the front under the radiator.

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Benzmac:
Donnie Drummonds
1992 500E (very soon I hope
1981 280GE SWB
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
SERVICE MANAGER FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

Tim, you car is an S-E-L (126 chassis) correct?

I think the info Benzmac gave you is for a 107 chassis SL, about the sway bar brackets by the radiator.

The 126 chassis cars usually have play in the "strut rod bushings" when you hear front end noises. These are mounted on the rod that is connected to the lower control arm. They are mounted in a way that they sort of face forward and catch alot of dirt and other debris in the mount, which chews up the boot and allows the joint to wear. This is also where you make the castor adjustment when doing an alignment.

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Yes,I have replace alot strut rod bushings that cause front end noise,I also recommend check both front lower control arm ball joints replace ball joints if boots show cracke or loose.You can save some labor charge if you do both job at one time.

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MB STARS Master Guild Technician,12 years MB tech
6 years independent shop owner