My father is using the 98ML. this morning it wouldn'g start (clicking noise). Jumped it and it starts up, but then shuts down within seconds. Any suggestions. thanks

Try use an other key to start the vehicle,your ML DAS system may not authorize you to start the motor.......becareful never jump start you ML with the key in ingition it will damage the key!!!

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MB STARS Master Guild Technician,17 years MB tech
14 years independent shop owner

"becareful never jump start you ML with the key in ingition it will damage the key!!!"

How do you jump start without the key in the ignition?

Car Nut
99 E430 Sport

You may want to check your battery if it is still the OEM before going great length trying to find the problem. With the deep freeze we had this winter, it may have killed your battery. I just replaced mine two months ago. It will jump start but it won't stay charged.

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95 R129
04 Infiniti G35.5 BS
10 X204

How can you jump start without having the key in the ignition??

Is there a valet key with these?

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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

My advice is never jump start your ML,if the battery is dead replace it with new battery,if you have to jump start your ML remove key from ignition hook up jumping cable wait about 5-10 minutes before you start it.

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MB STARS Master Guild Technician,17 years MB tech
14 years independent shop owner

It was the key. Had to bring another from home, but it worked. Valet key also works but first key seems kaput.

Also battery drank a ton of water which apparently hasn't been checked since new.