Hello folks:

Here is my latest issue. This morning, my wife's 1998 E430 (77k miles) would not engage the starter.
I heard all the usual noises, fuel pump, clicking when I turned the key, but no starter. It has a new MB battery and has never done this before.

After several attempts it finally cracked - I re-started it several times to be sure it was functioning well.

So, What do I look for. Starter relay? Neutral start switch? Starter?
Thanks for all your help.

...Brad.

__________________
Brad.
1998 E430
1989 300E (Sold to Brother-in-law)

Try N next time .. if so, NSS/bushing are suspect ..........

Well It did it again this moring so I put it in Neutral and it started just fine.

So, it seem the the NSS is the problem.

So how does one replace or fix the NSS bushings?

__________________
Brad.
1998 E430
1989 300E (Sold to Brother-in-law)

Archieves Search has that info...

Hi Brad, the neutral safety switch on your car is integrated into the transmission valve body. The part commonly referred to as the conductor plate contains the switch as well as a few other things. The conductor plate can be replaced separately, but the valve body must be removed first.

You should consider having the car scanned for codes before you replace any parts. If the Drive Authorization System (DAS) prevented the starter from engaging it'll store a fault code. I see lots more DAS issues than faulty conductor plates. Good luck