Nobsany

I changed the alternator and put a new battery. However, car shows no life. The key turns, but there are lights on instrument cluster, nothing at all. Even headlights and breaklights won't come on. The only things that turns on are the radio and inside lights. I have checked all the fuses (three locations) and they all seem to be alright. What could be wrong? Please help!

ohlord

you are in the wrong section.
You are a w211
did you replace the secondary battery that is required for starting?

Nobsany

I'm not. I have an E-Class (W210)

raymond g-

your profile shows 09 and 04. 210 includes 96-02

Nobsany

The question relates to a 1997, E320

raymond g-

oh......we should have been able to figure that out from the start, I guess.

Nobsany

Does anybody have any suggestion as to what could be wrong?

waybomb

I'd start with - is the battery hooked up + to + and - to -.

Then I'd go check that I had all the alternator connections tight, but disconnect the battery first.

If that's all you messed with. Good luck.

Nobsany

Thanks Waybomb. I have checked all that. I figured out that the last 3 digits on the voltage regulator the parts shop gave to me were different from the original. It took the alternator out and changed it to the right one. Yet nothing happened. Could that be the cause?

I towed the car to my mechanic who thinks their must be a shot somewhere. In his opinion, the ECM should be rules out since even the hazard and headlights are off. He plan to have it towed to an electrician, but I am afraid they will cut my throat for something simple or something they may end up not being able to figure out.

Before you ask me, no code could be read since theirs no power to the steering column or dashboard. Again, battery and alternator have been confirmed good and working