W210 not starting...battery charged but not cranking

[candyman1980]

Morning all, I'm having a bit of a problem with my 97 e300TD....I'm hoping someone can help!

The battery is reading 12.47v and I when I put the key in the ignition, after the glow plug light has gone out, all the lights + blower come on but when I try to start the engine it just clicks (solenoid I think) and doesn't crank at all.

Any ideas what's letting me down?

Many thanks

 

[The Hooded Claw]

Sounds like the Starter motors jammed ......stick it in second gear & rock it back & forth might unjam it (But only if it's a manual)

 

[television]

There could be fuse relays we did one of these a few days ago,I hope to post back later

 

[candyman1980]

Thanks guys...it's an auto by the way....

 

[television]

If you can get to the wires, and you have a voltmeter, that will tell you everything. there should be 12volts on the small cable on the starter when you turn the key,,no 12volt then is one of the big fuse relays, or a possible K38 starter lock out relay if fitted

 

[Number_Cruncher]

It's also worth trying with the lever in neutral in case it's the starter inhibitor switch which prevents you starting while in gear.

 

[Alex Crow]

on your early model 210 series there is a multifunction relay in the electrics case in the n/s/r area of the engine compartment. four screws will remove the black cover to reveal the relay. it has a 2.5mm purple, or purple/white wire which goes direct to the starter. check here for output when turning ignition. these relay modules can fail but it may just be a matter of disassembling and cleaning relay contacts.