shdoug

Why is position 3 (Start) on the ignition cylinder almost beyond the range of motion for the human wrist? Is this simply an oversight that they forgot to tilt the entire mechanism a few degrees to the left, or do they want you to turn to position 2 (Run), let go, and then reposition your wrist before starting the engine? I've always wondered about this feature on almost all older Mercedes cars.

big83bronco

I believe it is to give the fuel pump a few moments to pressurize teh system before you hit the start. I do this on my 2001 Explorer Sport Trac, I swith it to turn teh fuel pump on then wait about a second then hit teh start....cranks much quicker!

mgw_300e

It's a plot, by Ze Germans!

marco402

it's all in the wrist?

neanderthal

this is what i do as well. makes for much easier starting, and less stress on the engine

myfirstbenz

There are fun ways to build up your wrist muscles if this is a problem

crr1612

i tried leaving the car on start before hittin the ignition...seems to work well

big83bronco

I am correct every once in a while......

shadowgriffen

I usually tie a shoe-lace to my passenger door, that connects to the key that is inserted into the key hole. Once my wife openes the door, the lace is pulled, applying pressure to the key which in turn twists, cranks and turns my car on!

It doesnt work all the time though, sometimes the lighter louis Vuitton Tote doesnt have the impulse of the heavier and much sturdier Donna Karan sequin Hobo.

shdoug

I'm not complaining; I kind of like this unique little quirk. Just curious as to its origin.

'91 300CE

I used to do this... but I would get a stumbling start... now if I just turn the key to start in one motion, my car starts perfectly when cold.

AMG_Fred

Damn, everybody here does some MacGyver sh** just to start their car... But I also prep the engine before turning it on... then I usually adjust the radio and put on seat belt after. I don't like to get the car going immediately.

DarkHand

Key + coat hanger+ coffee can and ball of string...
(theme music playing in the background)