Hi,
I just got an '88 benz 190e 160k miles (automatic trans) and as soon as I start the car it dies after 1-2 seconds, unless I press the accelerator to up the rpm. I can only drive the car with both feet on the pedals to keep the rpm from going to 0. I have spent last 3 days reading this forum and I tried resoldering OVP (which was in a good shape) and fuel pump relay (also was in a good shape) and that didn't change anything. My next move would be to clean the idle control valve but I have no Idea how to find it and if it will help at all?

I have a hard time keeping my mind off this. What would you guys do next?
Thanks

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1988 mercedes 190e 2.3 AT 160k miles

I would guess the idle control valve and the fuel filter. The idle control valve looks like a aluminum cylinder and it's located under the air filter. You have to remove the air filter housing to get access to it It also has two rubber hoses connected to it. After disconnecting the hoses take it out and drench the inside with a carb cleaner several times to clean it.

The next item is the fuel filter. If it's not been changed for a while it's probably clogged and the engine is starving for fuel. On my 300E it's located under the car (near rear side left wheel). You have to remove the cover under the car to change it.

Hope this helps.

i dont want to sound to dumb but what is a ovp ?

A Khan, thanks for your answer I will trie that...

for the other guy:
OVP - over voltage protection relay (overload protection)

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1988 mercedes 190e 2.3 AT 160k miles

Sandstorm,

Been through this one on two cars. One was my mothers 89 190E 2.6 and the other was a client's 190 2.3. I don't think you have a fuel filter problem. I think the problem is in the idle air management system. The idle air valve mentioned above is probably not functioning properly. It gets its signal from the ECM. I would try cleaning it first as suggested, and if that doesn't work, you can apply 12 volts to the valve and start the car. I don't have the wire colors handy, but you can remove the plug and check for 12 volts at one of the connectors with the key on. If you have 12 volts, the problem is the wiring to the ECM or the ECM itself which is what provides the control signal. By removing the connector and applying voltage and ground to the valve, the car should idle at a high rpm if the idle air system is the problem.

Peter

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