I couldn't believe it, my wife couldn't get our 1998 ML320 started and had it towed home. I try and it starts right up! The difference is the key. I used the spare key and she used her everyday key. I tried her key and it wouldn't work, got the same thing. She wanted to throw something at me!

Here's the symtoms:

1. Insert key, turn and start in one smooth motion -> car starts -> runs for two seconds -> stalls out -> repeat and exactly the same thing happens, over and over.

2. Insert key, turn to starting position, pause two seconds (allow all dashboard idiot lights to come on) -> turn to start and nothing happens. No starter, nothing, dead quiet. Repeat and exactly the same thing happens.

The spare key starts it in any condition. Do I have a worn out key, or ignition switch, or ????? Thanks in advance for any help you can offer.

Don

__________________
2008 ML350
2007 Honda Element
2007 Honda Accord
2009 Honda Civic

Hi Don, your post gives a textbook description of a faulty key. Replace the bad key and don't give it another thought.

Think of it as a contribution to Huf's welfare. You're not alone - we've all helped them at some point or another.

Sorry for the delay responding to your answer. You were right on the money. The dealer confirms that it's probably the key, so I ordered one. It'll be here next weekend. They say I'll need to get it activated, so we'll do that at the same time. Thanks again for the help,

Don

PS - What goes wrong with the key, is it the metal or something inside the remote control?

__________________
2008 ML350
2007 Honda Element
2007 Honda Accord
2009 Honda Civic

The metal, or "blade" portion of the key is OK, it's the chip inside the remote that causes problems. If you were to swap the blade key from your remote onto a remote from another ML, you'd be able to crank your engine, and start it for a second, but it would die out right away. The chip inside the remote contains the VIN relevant data needed to drive the vehicle.