My 300e is currently in the shop because it will not start. The engine cranks but the warning lights do not light up. I have replaced the relay to the fuel pump myself without any improvement in the situation. Does anyone have any suggestions for the mechanic working on the car? Unfortunately because my car broke down far from my home town I couldn't get it to my regular mechanic. I am worried that the current mechanic will turn this into an exercise in replacing parts.

Thanks

Hmmmm....

I am assuming the car does not start at all, and not just a hard-starting problem (hot or cold).

Have the mechanic determine if it is an ignition or fuel-related problem...

...you didn't mention what year your car is, but if it is ignition, I would take a stab at the ignition coil(s), but any one ignition component could cause a problem (cap rotor, etc).

...I would suspect the fuel pressure regulator if it is determined that the igntion is sound.

These are just tips to assist in troubleshooting and are by no means an expert diagnosis, or an excuse to resume throwing parts at the problem...

Good luck!

__________________
2009 ML350 (106K) - Family vehicle
2001 CLK430 Cabriolet (80K) - Wife's car
2005 BMW 645CI (138K) - My daily driver
2016 Mustang (32K) - Daughter's car

Thanks for your reply.

The shop claims that they found the problem. It turns out that a third party alarm system was installed by a previous owner. Evidently a wire came loose on the alarm which resulted in my inability to start the car. They tried several things to reset the alarm but were unsuccessful. Unfortunately I could not help since there were no instructions on how to operate the alarm when I bought the car. Disconnecting the alarm allows the car to start so I guess the fix is to remove the alarm system and to restore the car back to "factory condition". Total cost is $280 and the repair will be completed by tomorrow.

I hope this reply helps someone else that may be in a similar situation.