I have 197,000 miles on this car and one day it started idleing real rough surging at times and then stalling along with the engine light flashing with the hesitation. AT times it runs bad and sometimes it will run fine for a day and then it is back doing it again. Sometimes it pings real bad at exheleration and blows alot of smoke. Can anyone tell me where to start.

wow! I have never heard of an engine light flashing, but I understand that it means big trouble! I would first start by checking all the vitals, coolant, oil, then check the fuel system and ignition. ensure your fuel is clean and the filter is not bad, ensure that your ignition wires are clean and not cross-firing. Then check and replace the plugs. These are all things you can do on your own, but the best way to figure out what is going on is take it to the dealer and pay them to hook it up to their machine and they will tell you exactly what is wrong. Good Luck!
Brian

Start with the basics and go from there. Read through as much info here as you can and educate yourself. Check all connections, fuses, and relays.


Take it to a mechanic when you are thoroughly stumped, and refuse to accept shotgun diagnostics.

Mike

__________________
'90 300SE 298k
-300K and it gets put into retirement.
'80 300D 255k Purchased new by family in 1980.

Had a:
1973 220 (gas)
1980 300SD
1992 400E