1996 USA cars have DAS (driver auth system) that reads info from the infra-red remote that locks & unlocks the car. That can cause the problem.

ALSO if the crank sensor doesn't generate a signal then the fuel computer won't activate the relay to allow the fuel pump to run.

__________________
MERCEDES Benz Master Guild Technician (6 TIMES)
ASE Master Technician
Mercedes Benz Star Technician (2 times)
44 years foreign automotive repair
27 Years M.B. Shop foreman (dealer)
MB technical information Specialist (15 years)
190E 2.3 16V ITS SCCA race car (sold)
1986 190E 2.3 16V 2.5 (sold)
Retired Moderator