Low idle, takes while to start

[neilz]

I've accepted I probably have to replace a fuel pump on the car, but also while I've owned the car it's always taken a while to start and often two attempts are needed. When it starts, it's shaky for a second as the revs are very low, in a second or two they rise to just under 600rpm where they stay (and it feels fine-ish, a tiny bit shaky). When the car is started after a short period of rest (e.g. when I go to the supermarket for a second) it starts fine but still idles at those low revs. The car feels a bit hesitant when driving at first. Are these all symptoms of a fuel pump not getting enough fuel to the engine initially? It's still a very thirsty car!

 

[SJX]

Low idle sometimes faulty MAF, worth tying a clean out!
I think I have the correct fuel system for your year.
S

 

[kth286]

my fuel pump on same engine has done 190,000 miles now and engine is smooth and performs well.

ideally you need to get codes read as it may show up an electrical misfire, and it will tell you which cylinder.

go to a specialist merc indie familiar with your type of car.

better do above than pay for an expensive pump you may not need.

 

[neilz]

Why do I think it's the pump? It hums so loud you can hear it coming on the pump alone - engune actually nice and quiet and running smooth (doesn't feel like it's misfiring at all and I know what that feels like having owned a cursed Jeep Wrangler))

 

[neilz]

And I made a typo - it idles at ~490RPM (just under 500) and when starting it often struggles unless you put your foot down a bit. But when driving it's fine. When I said hesitant I guess I mean a bit underpowered. Just put a new air filter in soit's quieter.