I could not start my 1985 190e last night. The battery and starter seemed fine as the ignition cranked but at the point where I can release the key the engine just dies. Seems like some kind of fuel problem.

One thing that I’ve noticed over the last few months is that it has been taking longer and longer for the car to start. I used to hold the key for a very short time before the car came to life. Prior to last night I had to hold the key in the start position for a few seconds before the car would start. Does anyone have any suggestions on how I can fix this? I had to leave the car in a parking garage this morning and I need to remove it by today (Sunday). Help!

Ok, I've done some troubleshooting and this is what I’ve determined. The car will start but the motor will run for about 1-2 seconds before dying. As per the archives, I checked the ovevoltage relay but the 10amp fuse was not blown. I changed it anyway but still the same response. I wanted to check the fuel pump relay (does it have a fuse like the OVR?) but I could not find it. What should be my next step? Ideally, I’d like to do a temporary fix so that I can at least drive it 10 miles to my parking space at home. Once it’s there I can take my time to fix the problem. Any ideas?

The fuel pump relay may be bad, also there is a vacuum hose under intake manifold that can come loose & cause these same symptoms.

I'm with DOC.

Bingo!

It was the vacuum hose under intake manifold. Thanks for the great advice!!