Help! C280 wont start
 

My friends 99 C280 sport cranks but wont start.
All dash lights work, but there is no check engine light on.
Fuel tank has plenty.
I don't even know how to check for spark on this modern car. I'm thinking the two things to check are fuel and spark.
One wild guess was fuel pump and when he turns the key to 2 position, there isn't that telltale buzz.
Question, is where is the fuel pump, how long does it buzz in the 2 position and how loud is it?
Thanks for the help, he's stuck right now so any quick response is great.
Is there some simple test we can do out here to check for fuel?

Try a different key.

Gilly

I guess that means there isn't anything we can do. :confused:

No, I'm serious. The key can go bad which can cause a crank/no start condition.

Gilly

Thanks Gilly,
I didn't mean to doubt you, I'm a Vintage forum guy.
I don't deal with these newfangled auto mobiles very often.

Try another key first, many failures like this, sounds strange I know.

The fuel pump is under the car, in front of the left rear wheel I believe, there will be a plastic cover under it. You should just barely be able to hear it.
The relay is in the trunk.
Pretty rare failure, the key thing is what comes to mind first, hope he has another one to try.

Gilly

Same thing happened to me 1999 C280 Sport. It was the key. Happened in garge. Went in and got spare electronic key.Car started right up. I always carry all 3 keys (2) smartkeys and my 1 manual flat key when i go on trips or vacation, just in case.

You have the uncanny ability of pointing out the obvious, my friend;) .

(j/k)

Gilly