CLK-Class (W208) 1998-2002: CLK 200, CLK 230K, CLK 320, CLK 430 [Coupes & Cabriolets]

Fuel pump wont prime, bridged fuel pump and it activated but still no start

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Old Jun 19, 2014 | 04:28 AM
  #1  
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1998 CLK320 Cabriolet
Fuel pump wont prime, bridged fuel pump and it activated but still no start

Hi everyone,

I recently bottomed out on some raised tarmac (which I believe may have contributed to my problem), I drove around 15km(10mi) and switched car off, tried starting back up and just cranks over no ignition whatsoever.

I've tried almost everything I can think of but cannot figure this one out.

The fuel pump doesn't prime. Checked relays tried swapping with similar relays in the car also checked fuses everything seems ok. Bridged fuel pump from the fuel pump relay terminals 87 and 30 and the fuel pump activated but it still didn't start.

Summary:
Fuel pump only works when bridged
Fuel pressure builds when fuel pump bridged
Doesn't start when fuel pump bridged
No obvious blown fuses or relays
Purchased a CPS online due to arrive next week

Please help I don't know what else it might be.
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Old Jun 20, 2014 | 11:08 PM
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1998 CLK320 Cabriolet
I don't think there is any spark either tried the spark plugs and they didn't register on the multimeter.

I'm pulling my hair out now, there seems to be two common problems but they both are not what they seem. They are both related to one problem I believe I just don't know where they originate from.

Does anyone know where the source of the fuel pump and ignition system is?

I tried disconnecting the battery last night to reset the ecu and still no difference.
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Old Jun 22, 2014 | 07:42 AM
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1998 CLK320 Cabriolet
Anyone have any idea as to what could fail and cause no spark and no fuel but still allow the engine to crank over?
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Old Feb 13, 2025 | 03:25 PM
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Originally Posted by CLKTHEO
Anyone have any idea as to what could fail and cause no spark and no fuel but still allow the engine to crank over?
i have this exact problem, did you figure it out?? I checked everything but nothing seems to fix the problem
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Old Feb 14, 2025 | 11:47 AM
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CLK430
Hey there,

It sounds like you're dealing with a pretty frustrating issue. Let's break it down and see if we can figure this out.

1. Fuel Pump Issue:
- Since the fuel pump only works when bridged, it suggests that the pump itself is functional, but the signal to activate it isn't getting through. This could be due to a problem with the ECU, wiring, or a sensor that's preventing the ECU from sending the signal.

2. Ignition Issue:
- You mentioned there's no spark. This could be related to a few things:
- Crankshaft Position Sensor (CPS): Since you've already ordered a new CPS, this is a good step. If the CPS is faulty, the ECU won't know the engine's position and won't send a spark or fuel signal.
- Camshaft Position Sensor: Similar to the CPS, if this sensor is faulty, it can prevent the engine from starting.
- Ignition Coil/Module: If these are faulty, they won't generate the spark needed for ignition.

3. ECU and Wiring:
- Since the fuel pump isn't getting the signal to prime, and there's no spark, it might be worth checking the ECU and the wiring harness for any damage that could have occurred when you bottomed out on the tarmac. Look for any loose or damaged connectors.

4. Relays and Fuses:
- Double-check all the relays and fuses related to the fuel pump and ignition system. Even if they seem fine, sometimes a relay can fail intermittently.

5. Ground Connections:
- Ensure all ground connections are secure. A loose ground can cause all sorts of electrical issues.

To summarize, here are the steps you can take:
1. Replace the CPS when it arrives.
2. Check the camshaft position sensor.
3. Inspect the ignition coil and module.
4. Examine the ECU and wiring for any damage.
5. Double-check all relays and fuses.
6. Verify all ground connections are secure.

Hopefully, one of these steps will help pinpoint the issue. Let me know how it goes or if you need more specific guidance on any of these steps!
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