1998 W202 C240 intermittant start failure

[MotardMan]

Since we have had the car, occasionally, very occasionally, you turn the key and are greeted with half a revolution of the starter. The car does not fire up. Leave it for 10-15 secs, try again and it fires up fine.

Recently SWMBO has found it getting worse, to the point where it took four cycles of key turning to get the thing started... Of course, when I try it, there is no problem....

I'm thinking crankshaft sensor. What are you chaps thinking?

If it is the crankshaft sensor, is it a DIY job to sort?

TIA.

 

[BlackC55]

Starter and ring gear needs lubricating possibly.

I doubt it is the CPS as it normally fails when driving then fails to start thereafter.

Does the starter squeek when the key is turned?

 

[MotardMan]

Starter and ring gear needs lubricating possibly.

Does the starter squeek when the key is turned?

It does. When it fails to start you get a "cough" from the starter, then nothing. The car is due a service in 800 miles, maybe I should drop the car with you, and take the family to Marwell Zoo whilst you fix and service it?

 

[BlackC55]

I can.

Just give me a call to book in. I normally need a weeks notice.

The method for lubricating the ring gear can be quite time consuming as somtimes the starter has to be removed. I know a fast method though....

 

[anyweb]

whats the fast method then ?

 

[MotardMan]

Was wondering that myself.......

 

[BlackC55]

It is a trade secret.

The ring gear can be got to elsewhere.