Yes, the glow plug light comes on, and yes I do wait for it to turn off before I crank it. The article posted does sound like my car - runs great once it's warm, but on a cool morning... Lots of smoke coming out of the tailpipe, runs a bit rough at first, and is hesitant to start.

I don't have a garage/tools/etc at the moment (again I'm a student away at school), but I do have a trusted independent MB mechanic I go to. About how much money can I expect this to cost (ballpark)? scenario 1: glowplug replacement, scenario 2: starter replacement

Thanks!