Gr8-clarky

Hi have a 1999 clk 320 cabriolet, it has an intermittent starting problem (will turn over a little bit and stop). I've replaced the battery's in the key fob. I have also changed the cps and checked the battery out and its made no difference, but if I wiggle the key in the EIS it starts up normally.
Does anyone know if I can just use some Pinot on the EIS and have a start button to fix the problem? Or what else to suggest?
Thanks

Spliff760

Same exact thing would happen to me on my 03 c320. It would try and start for a couple second but would just give up, then about 4 or 5 hours later it would start fine. The problem wasn't the battery it was the Crank shaft starter sensor. Mine was cracked. About 400$ but worth it in my opinion haha

Gr8-clarky

Thanks it's used to be only when it's hot but now it's even when it's cold and strange if I pull the key down at angle will fire normally and start , I've cleaned the key and eis up the best I can still no luck

Spliff760

Get the Crank shaft starter sensor checked out. That's all I can think of, sprry

Gr8-clarky

Do you know how to test them with a multi meter

OZCLK430

Crank sensor is available cheaply off the net and really easy to replace yourself - under $100.

However, i am not sure that the description your giving points directly to the sensor.

Moving the Key as you describe, suggest that it may be EIS/Key related, in position or flexing either.

DO you have a second key to try?
DO you have the emergency FLAT key?

The battery in the FOB, DOES NOT HAVE ANYTHING TO DO WITH THE START ...its purely the remote function. I dont knwo how many experts have voiced their oprion about changing the frikin fob battery !!

When you read the mercedes litrature, its a passive device and hence why the flat emergency key ( that has NO BATTERY) works.

Anyway, sorry about my frustration with MY fault bleeding into your thread.

So - my thinking that if another key works - then the fault may be with the key flexing and a bad solder joint inside.
If another key does exacly the same, then the EIS "may" be the issue.

Awaiting your response


Regards
Dave

HWYSTAR

I had the exact same issue the very day I got my baby on new years eve. Replaced the battery and was still intermittent. So I went to the dealer and ordered a new key/fob,problem solved. Not sayin that this is your case but the similarities are way too close to rule this out. Might wanna invest in a new key/fob, especially if you only have one,then at least you will have a backup.

Gr8-clarky

Many thanks for all your help I do have a spare key which I just found out I will give it a try and if the same I will take it to the local Benz garage to see if they can test the eis and keys for me unfortunately I don't have an emergency flat key with it.

I have since posting this replaced the crank position sensor and starter relay and fuel pump relay.

Gr8-clarky

SOLVED I took the starter motor out and cleaned it up, put back together and works 1st time every time, I did buy graphite grease but didn't apply it as didn't turn up on time before I needed to use the car, but if it goes again I will strip it again and apply it ��