Thanks,

I'll find out if the car has eror codes , cranks but won't fire or won't crank then research if the anti theft system drops the starter or fuel. The ad says they talked to "Mercedes people" ( Re internet ) and were told the key needs "reprogrammed" ( $ 350 ) or the EIS changed ( $ 900 ). I'd think if that was all that stood between a running car and scrap they would make it run again.

As a trade in the car has near zero value, for a Mercedes dealer it is too old to sell on their lot and a used car lot too afraid of it.