Hot start problem R230 SL500

[mrfunex]

I've had my 2004 SL500 for about 6 months now, and it's had problems starting on 3-4 occasions.

It seems to happen when the car is left in bright sunshine for 5-10minutes. It will crank fine, just not fire up. Leaving the car for another 5-10minutes will mean it cranks for a longish time, then starts and runs as normal, but with the EML on. The light goes out after a day or so.

Is this a known problem? My car is black, so that, in very hot weather, coupled with the enormous amount of heat generated by the engine means it's usually roasting hot when trying to start. I've tried normal 95RON fuel, and 99RON and it happens with both. When the engine is cold, or has been left for an hour or so, it starts fine.

I don't want to take it to a garage just yet, as intermittent problems usually results in them just throwing parts at it.

Any advice, help gratefully received!

[XB70]

Take it down to Olly at PCS in Waterlooville. He is the complete opposite to the "replace parts till working" but rather will find out what the problem is.

[mrfunex]

Thanks for your help! After a bit of googling, it seemed like the problem lay with a faulty crank position sensor.

I took it to Bursledon Motors, sort of near Botley. Plugged a diagnostic machine into the car and read the error codes. Faulty Crank Position Sensor! It's being replaced tomorrow. I'm so glad it's going to get sorted!

Incidentally, massive thumbs up for Bursledon Motors. I heard of them through this forum, I've taken my car to them before, and they really are good. Great to hear of another good local though!