W124 230E starting issues - no attempt to turn over

[redgosta]

Hi all,

First time posting to the forum but long term w124 owner. I am not the most electrically proficient owner so please be patient.

I have had my 230E auto stored in a local gated car park for a while but not used (around 2 years now). It was given to me around 6 years ago by a family member and I was using until 2 years ago. Originally I was going and running it periodically until I was away and the battery failed, then I had left it for a prolonged amount of time. I had tried trickle charging the battery and then starting, to no avail. I have now tried charging and attempting to start with jumper cables attached, but nothing happens when I try to start the car. The lights and electrics otherwise seem to work fine, but nothing happens when I try to turn at the end. There is no 'jump' or attempt to turn the engine over.

My plan is to check fuses first this week, and then potentially purchase a multi-meter to test specifics. Has anyone had this happen before or can share any wisdom as to what it may be? I am really hoping to get it running and back in action soon rather than let it go to waste. Could a brand new battery solve this? I am guessing that is unlikely as nothing happens when trying to start, rather than a weak attempt.

Appreciate your time, thanks!

 

[Blobcat]

Hello and welcome,

If it's been sat I'd be checking wiring for rodent damage as well as corrosion on fuses, relays and water / condensation damage

 

[redgosta]

Thank you, will do. I suppose the damage would look fairly obvious. It seems crazy to imagine rodents getting in and nibbling on things but I suppose this is quite possible.

 

[Blobcat]

Thank you, will do. I suppose the damage would look fairly obvious. It seems crazy to imagine rodents getting in and nibbling on things but I suppose this is quite possible.

Mice love to chew on wiring, Mercedes also made environmentally friendly biodegradable wiring harnesses - unfortunately they tended to biodegrade whilst still in use... the insulation just cracks off leading to short circuits and many electrical issues.

 

[redgosta]

Good to know. I will try to have a check this week and report back. Appreciate any ideas, thanks.

 

[DREAMER NO2]

Check your starter motor conections and earth points . Run an extra earth from starter motor to the chassis . Dont jump start unless you know how to --- also battery chrge chart - ==

 

[redgosta]

Great, thanks for the info. I'm not sure how to run an extra earth but will do some research. The jump starting I've done before and used that method, but it had no effect whatsoever so I am guessing something else is at play here.

 

[mercman111]

your battery might be goosed

 

[ajlsl600]

Mice love to chew on wiring, Mercedes also made environmentally friendly biodegradable wiring harnesses - unfortunately they tended to biodegrade whilst still in use... the insulation just cracks off leading to short circuits and many electrical issues

D. Cts!