Ignition trouble on the way? e 300 td w210

[mojo7676]

I've searched for posts with what i think is a similar problem to what i'm having at present. every now and then, i turn the ignition key and nothing happens - the same thing that happens when you leave the car in gear (autobox). the ignition does come on, but as i turn, there is the usual 'springiness' but the starter doesn't turn. usually, i take out the key and start again - usually fires up after one or two goes. WHat's troubling me a little is that it does seem to be happening more frequently - used to happen once occasionally, now it seems to happen every other journey? as i said, i've searched and come across posts that have similar problems but can't really find anything more definitive. any comments, advice, etc would be great. thanks. mojo. 1998 e300td auto estate with about 140k on the clock.

 

[robs-mbz]

I have exactly the same problem on my E300td, turning the ignition off, removing the key and restarting always cures it, its only happened two or three times since I bought the car about a year ago so I am not too worried but it would be nice to know what it is! I will be following this thread with interest!

 

[mojo7676]

i think it could be a dead/weak pair of batteries in the fob. today, i couldn't even open the doors/deactive the alarm through using the fob. so i took out the inner metal key, opened the driver's door then tried the ignition... and it started fine. will use another/spare fob for a few days and see what happens. will also replaced pair of cr2025 flat batteries in what might be a dodgy fob and see if that makes any difference. will post if any progress. mojo

 

[jp williams]

Had same problem (twice) with my Jan 2003 w210 E 220 cdi Auto.
MB said it was the Electronic Ignition Switch and replaced both under warranty.I believe that it is a common problem as it has happened to others I know-one has a210 the other a clk.
I think that the full cost is around £500 to replace.
Hope you r`s is only an intermittent problem--but do not hold your breath.
Regards
John

 

[robs-mbz]

Its definitely not batteries in the key fob, the fob will work in the ignition even without the batteries fitted, take them out and try it, the fob works by induction, a bit like a transformer, an energised coil in the switch induces a current in a coil within the fob, thus powering it, the batteries are only there to power the ultrasonic transmitter for opening the doors and disarming the alarm.

 

[mojo7676]

thanks for the heads up, jp. will try the batts and see what difference, if any, that makes at all, robz. 500 quid is a lot of dough in one throw... if it keeps on playing up, might have to start looking for a new ride! thanks again, mojo.

 

[mojo7676]

update -

been using the spare das3 key for a day and a half and haven't had the dead ignition problem even once... so far. Also, got a price from mb for eis - 300 and some quid plus VAT. nice. mojo.

 

[mojo7676]

-update

In case anyone's interested - been using the spare key/fob for about three weeks and had no probs at all - still haven't changed batts on old one so haven't narrowed things any further, yet. mojo

 

[television]

Nice for the update, the little coil on the key could be lose