1996 E300 engine takes several attempts to start
 

After reading several articles, I am trying to determine why it takes several attempts to fire engine. Every morning, my car will not start on the first attempt. I have to take the key out of the ignition switch and wait then try again. Engine usually starts on 2nd attempt; however, there is a lot of exhaust smoke (white), but my car starts and runs smoothly. My display reads electronic errors...oh btw, if I let the fuel gauge fall below half, my car will not start??? Any suggestions...jmb

Find out what the errors are. You're really not giving us a lot to work with here. Have you been maintaining the car yourself or do you have a mechanic? White smoke could mean valve stem seals. If it's overheating it could also mean head gasket.

Sounds like fuel supply issue to me.

Is this a diesel that you're talking about here? Get your car on a scanner, you're not helping us help you.

If it is a diesel,

Glow plugs. Fuel lines.

Done.