Ihave a 1997 SL2 with a starting issue. It will start fine on a cold start, but after it runs 15 mins or so, and has warmed up it wont start at all. I have taken it to a few different mechanics and they can''t figure it out because when they plug their computers in its not telling them anything. Fuel pump is fine, has a new battery and spark plugs and relay switch I believe. Any advice is appreciated.

 

I would replace the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor (ECTS). Sounds like it is not recognizing that the engine is warmed up, and is setting the fuel mixture wrong. By any chance, do you smell gas ??

 

Not that I recall, I dont'' drive it right now because it wasn''t reliable and I have two small children I have to drive around. I do remember that it would smell like it was getting really hot, when I would try to start it again after driving it, but at the same time, the car had been flooding which is why the spark plugs were replaced.

 

AYUP ... Engine running hot, flooding (gas smell), classic case here. Of course, it is just possible that the fan circuit is bad, but your comments point to a defective ECTS. Might be a good idea to have the connector for the sensor replaced too, as they tend to corrode and wear out, creating poor connections ...

 

i have a 95 SL with a similar problem starts fine in the cold but has trouble after parking then trying to start warm. i expected it to be an electrical problem so i checked the ignition and fuel system with a multimeter and all circuits had proper levels. i discovered one strange thing, if i unplugged any one of the injectors the car would start and it would run fine once i replugged that injector. idk why. but i have noticed the smell of gas every time that it wont start. i plan to replace that sensor and hope thats the problem.

 

That sensor is giving everyone problems, I figured my problem out and disconnected it, I get better gas mileage and the car doesnt overheat, ama replace it asap!