97SoCalE320

Todays the 21st of Jan 2010 and approx. 1 week ago my 1997 E320 failed to start. It has 130k no previous related problems. Its not driven more than 1,000mi. a month and when it is driven, by my wife its driven very easy.

Ok so AAA came and checked battery they said its fine.
I had a mobil mechanic out he retested battery said all is well with Batt..

Right now you go to it disarm factory alarm, it unlocks, you get in, put key in ignition, turn ignition first click normal dash lights come on, do the final turn and nothing, no click,no engaging sound, nothing.......

Any Ideas?

RichardM98

These cars a pretty sensitive to battery condition. At a certain threshold (12.0v DC?) they will refuse to attempt to start. At that point there will usually be plenty of power to light up lights, etc. The old dim headlight test doesn't work with these cars. The best way to tell if the battery is really good is to remove it from the car and perform a load test at the bench. If your battery is more than 4-5 years old, it may be the problem. Although with proper attention to water level, MB OEM batteries can last 7-8 years.

BTW, not trying to steer you toward one, but did you know you can call 1-800-FOR MERCedes and they will come to you, install a new factory battery, reset the windows and radio and haul away the old one for the same price you would pay if you walked up to Parts Dept at the dealership? About $175.

If it's not the battery, I would examine the voltage at the starter next.

Good luck.

97SoCalE320

Thanks for the info. The mobil tech did remove the battery and do a full load test unlike the hand-held load test AAA did when I thought it was just a dead battery.

I'm having It towed to a Mercedes independant repair shop in my area I just hope this doesnt turn out to be a huge cost.

I'll post up once they find the problem.

I think after I get the repair done maybe trading her in for a newer model E class 04-05.

tmandel

Or put it on the FS forum here...?

Someone will be glad to pick up a (relatively) low mileage E class w/ a known history (and a forum pedigree!).