I wasn't under the hood for 30 seconds when it made itself obvious...there was a wire pinched between the battery and battery tray. it jiggled when I started the car and would short out.

Thanks for the help guys.

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RIP: 80 300SD
RIP: 79 450SEL
2002 E430 4matic (212,000km)
2002 ML500 'sport'

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FACEBOOK: PANZER450