1997 W210 E280 poor idle

[khfcfan]

Hi everyone, I'm new to the forum but definately not new to Mercedes having had a few over the years, my latest one (E280 W210 1997) is giving me a bit of a headache though.
The car starts fine and ticks over smoothly and when on a run is still the same - smooth. The problem starts after being in traffic, tick over gets a little lumpy and erratic, occasionally cutting out. When this happens the words 'Battery Not Charging' appears on the display in red. The car always starts again without fail and runs normally for a while then the problem returns.
I have replaced the spark plugs, cleaned the MAF sensor and replaced the air filter, yet the problem persists.
Also when cold the car is reluctant to change up from first yet when it's warmed up it is absolutely fine.
Is there anyone out there with any suggestions?

 

[recycled]

battery not charging means the alternator is not right.
you may have to check the volts on the battery or is it amps.
Better still to put a new battery in it and if it still gives that error then i would check the coils and alternator

 

[BenzComander]

Maybe recirculation valve sticking?? Had this on my w210 320 petrol, and it cause a lumpy idle and cutting out symptoms.

 

[brandwooddixon]

Does the battery not charging come up before or after it starts to shudder and stop?

If you've fixed it then fine if not then another culprit can be the crankshaft sensor. Typically when these start to fail they do so when they get hot. Allowing the car to cool will allow it to restart, but it may not restart immediately after stopping.

It's a simple item to replace and the part is half the price from a Bosch parts stockist than from the MB dealer.