Gilly, thank for your expertise!
You are correct about the ring around the igntion switch. Mine is an 06/96. The 97 models have the sensors.
Now, you hit on something.
I have the driveside door that will not lock or unlock, thought it was the actuator, but now think it could be something else. Any ideas?
I had trouble with the car again yesterday, but I tried putting the key in, and I know this will sound silly, so as to scrape the top and over right side of the ignition entrance as I insert it. Low and behold, it started! Tried it again and it continues to work!
Now my question is, since this is an electronic switch, could it be the ignition connections inside the switch?
I also can, on rare occasions, get my dash to come up and work if I turn the key in right manner. This seems to be related to the ignition as well.
I have found ignition switches on Ebay, don't know what they are, exactly, but would a replacement of the 7 pin switch be a possible solution?http://cgi.ebay.com/Mercedes-Benz-Ignition-Switch-240D-280CE-280E-300D-300E-/170463511640?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&fits=Model%3AC280&hash=item27b06ac458
Your assistance is greatly appreciated!
Steve Dale