Expert: Sean Halliday - 3/15/2009

Question
I have a C230 Mercedes Benz Kompressor (2003) and it has been acting up as of late. When I have the car idiling for any amount of time the check engine light comes on and when I begin to drive it the engine starts to "chug". I end up having to pull over and restart my car but the check engine light won't go away for another few days. I have had my car in before and the problem was that something was "misfiring". Otherwise the car drives fine and I don't have any problems with it. I was wondering if you knew why my check engine light keeps coming on? I would like some advice before I take it in for service (as I am afraid because I drive a Mercedes someone may be inclined to rip me off). Thanks for any guidance you can give me.

Answer
The check engine light is there to help find the fault.You need to read the obd code with a special scanner.Most parts stores will carry this or loan you one.When you find the code you can proceed from there.Without this,you will be pouring money into parts you dont need.This problem could be one of many.