Hi, Not sure if this is the answer you are looking for but both myself and a near neighbour had a similar problem with cold starting (mine first). My garage took ages to find the problem doing all the usual stuff that you have done.
As it turned out on my Mercedes 200E, my ABS light was on alll the time (even when running) and this was the reason (I've know idea why because I know nothing about cars ...lol). In the end a simple fuse change was all that was required. It's located under the bonnet, right hand side, top corner (there's a couple of black boxes up there). Sorry I cannot answer better but as I say I've know idea about cars and their workings.
However, when a near neighbour of mine had a similar problem with his Merc (I heard him trying to get it started), his ABS light was always on. I told him about my garage, he went there and the same thing, same place and for the price of a fuse it was all fixed.
Incidently, it appears both of our cars previous to this had to be jump started and both required new alternators after this. Whether this is common thing or not I don't know?
Hope it's of some assistance.
Kevin, November 2007
