Hello I have 1998 C280. As I am sure this topic has been discussed, I have searched and did not find too much on this vehicle. Any way about 3 weeks ago car would not start. Figured battery but when I saw that all lights were working and seemed like full power ruled it out.

Was thinking along line of the key not working. Figured out thathekey is not problem since it does not have to be programmed...tried a jump start and car started...amazing. Picked up new battery and been good so far. Water pump was installed 1-29-05. Picked up car 1-30 and all seemed well until yesterday morning. Started car at 7am no problem. Came out of work at 1130am and car would not start...nothing.......no sounds excpet for fuel pump kicking in.

Thought same problem wit battery, tried jump start and no luck. Car sat at work until this morning. Got in it and tried it again this morning and nothing. Tow truck picked it up and it is a mechanics right now. But he is not pro on mercedes. Anyone have this problem before. Almost feels like the system is keeping power away from starter. Alllights light up on panel radio heater and fans and headlights both highand low. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.

Hi Dan,
if you hear a "click" when you try to start it and you also observe the tachometer needle going up: it's the starter ring gear that needs a lube coat of optimol paste. Early 112 and 113 engines like to act up that way.
All the best,
Dokta

Dokta, weirdest thing happened, the carhas been sitting since the the 4th since I have not had time to get to it. I checked it everyday and everyday it just clicked...and no start.

Well yesterday, the temp went to 50 degrees here in Ny and guess what the car clicked and turned over. It is again now starting....I am totally lost. Does the cold weather play a part here. Also I have purchased the start relay......as various posts have dictated such. Any ideas as to why car now starts again. Thanks

Hi Dan,
Yes, temperature does play a part. Does the rev-counter go up when it clicks?
All the best,
Dokta

Did not get to notice since car started...but did notice fuel gauge do what you said when it clicked........also had lights on and no change in brightness when key turned.