Many times the car starts normally but starting in 09/02 when I turned key on motor may turn 1 time and quit and could not get to turn again. I have tried pumping the gas pedal but once it doesn't turn over on first try, it will not turn at all. Sometimes if I wait 12 hours it will start correctlly. My battery is 3 years old and I have my mechanic maintain the car as described in manual. I use Amoco 93 fuel and would appreciate any input short of a complete electrical overhaul which is not in my finances right now.
Thanks for any input, Sherry Underwood

You might check the alignment of the neutral start switch on the left side of the transmission. A simple check would be to put the shifter in neutral and move it slightly forward and slightly backward to see if you find a sweet spot.

There are other aspects of your description that don't jive with a misaligned neutral start switch but it might be this simple thing.

Sixto
91 300SE
87 300SDL
83 300SD

This might sound stupid, but after trying (and failing) to start the car the first time, you have turn the key completely back to the "off" position before you can crank it again.

__________________
Paul S.

2001 E430, Bourdeaux Red, Oyster interior.
79,200 miles.

1973 280SE 4.5, 170,000 miles. 568 Signal Red, Black MB Tex. "The Red Baron".