I have a '98 c280.. When I turn the ignition key, it won't start or even try to...
The battery is fine.. The first mechanic I took it to said that it was my ECM, but I had that checked and it was o.k. The next mechanic replaced my ignition lock/module, but that didn't fix it either....!! (It started 2 -3 times and then left me stranded...) I've checked every fuse > O.K.
I suspect that the problem is in the wiring harness from the ignition to the ECM, or a faulty connection pin...

What do you think? Or recommend?

 

I had the same type of problem, and it ended up to be a wire running under the dash to the passenger air bag area that had fractured/broke,.
Once it was reconnected, all was fine.
Possibly, it my be the same problem

 

The mechanic just replaced the Starter Relay, and , for the moment, it's working.. I have my doubts and suspect that I will be stranded somewhere again... I'll post an follow up next week.. PTCruser, I feel it is a wiring problem too....

 

The problem seems to be fixed.(fingers crossed).. Here is my question: What are the odds that the Starter relay AND the Electronic Ignition switch complex
could fail at the same time?
It seems to me that the mechanic first misdiagnosed the problem, by replacing the Electronic Ignition switch complex ($1400 P&L), and then after my car failed again and returned to his shop, he 'got it right' with the Starter Relay, (which is $200 - $400).
I am meeting with the owner soon to discuss this and would like some feedback from some knowledgeable MB World members....
Many thanks!

 

One would think that the dealer will try to play with you on this one.
There is "sort of" no proof about what failed and when.
If your not satisfied with the resolution, you can take it to Mercedes directly.
Remember, don't go in with both barrels blazing and making threats, be calm and present your case, and then ask, "how would you like to resolve this"?
They may write off the labor portion, but who knows.
Good luck

 

[QUOTE=ptcruiser;5680496]"One would think that the dealer will try to play with you on this one."


I didn't take it to a Mercedes Dealer but to a certified Mercedes Mechanic... I will be 'calm', and try to reach a compromise... It seems to me that BOTH idems didn't fail and that he missed it on the first try... I also would have started from the first place that was working properly, (the computer control module), and worked backwards towards the ignition. He did it the other way around.

 

Let us know the outcome.
Probably, a Mercedes mechanic doesn't have the ability to take a big bite financially like a dealer does.
I hope it resolves to everyone's satisfaction.

 

Do you have a repair video of how this was solved?