'94 C280 Puzzle

I'm a relatively new MB owner - BMW's for many years - so this has me baffled.

My '94 C280 either starts immediately when turning the key or not at all. Sometimes I can immediately turn it again and we're off - sometimes I let it sit a few minutes and no problem.

Temperature of the car seems to make no difference. Plenty of battery power and cranking speed. Doesn't seem as if there is a fuel issue. In other words, it doesn't stumble -it just fires instantly or not at all.

I've scanned many of the posted threads and seem to see an issue with the OVP (?) for the C-series? If so, what is the part number I need to get the "new model" OVP?

Any help is much appreciated so I don't have to hear my wife tell me I should have a Honda like hers.

[Benzmac]

You should replace the over-voltage protection relay. Also, I have seen ignition switches cause this symptom.

[David C Klasse]

I just went down to my car to check the updated part number for you (I got a new one about 4 months ago). And it's the exact same part number, both were made in Austria. This probably means that it will go again in a few years. I guess I just assumed that I would get the updated one. *Damn*

Well the old OVP # (which I CURRENTLY have, a new one atleast) is 000 540 52 45. If I recall correctly, the updated one is 000 540 67 45. I wonder why I got the old one... ARGH.

[Charles]

David,

Even the updated one might last just a few years, my experience. The date code of my last one was year 96 and it went down two months ago. I did not know when the ex owner replaced it, but one thing for sure that it just lasted for 5 years. P/N is 000 540 67 45 made in Hungary. No idea about the quality of electrical industry of Hungary. The current one is same p/n, same country. I try to fix the broken one to be a backup.

Charles

[Arthur Dalton]

You may want to give Parts Shop a call.
I noticed today thet the NEW part they are currently using is neither #.
So it may be that they are using a completely different part and supplier????
Would not surpise me.

[David C Klasse]

Oh ok... well that's interesting... supposedely the Hungarian ones (67)were supposed to not fail. Oh well, it's only about $50, and replacement every few years.