Just bought my 2nd C230 today, a 1997 (have had an '06 for 3yrs). But I am having troubles getting the C230 started. I purchased at auction, so you never know history, but car looks great, has 100k miles and I purchased as a fixer upper since it didn't run when I bought it. Here is my problem:

When I turn the key, nothing at all happens, by nothing, I mean NOTHING, no clicks, no dimming of headlights, etc. Here is also what does and doesn't work.
*I have just installed a brand new battery.
*ALL fuses, engine compartment (left and right) and trunk have been looked over 4 times and are all good.
*Main cooling fan runs when ignition ignition is turned on, but nothing else.
*Instrument cluster does not light up-hazard lights all work propery and red triangle flashes.
*The interior lights, headlights, trunk, reverse, and all signal/hazard lights work fine.
*Horn works
*Central locking system works (all functions-manual with key, outside car, button inside, and trunk, red/green)
*Only one window control-pass. front-works, I hear click for all others in trunk fuse panel. <LI itxtvisited="1">Speedo/Tach Gauges do not light up.
*Radio doesn't turn on at all, no message on screen.
If anyone knows where I might find the holy grail of how to get this 97 C230 started, let me know. I'd love to be able to hear it run. Or, if you have any suggestions for any of the other items, I am all ears.

Thank you in advance for your reply.

 

When the starter motor fails to operate when the ignition key is turned to the appropriate position, the following possible causes may be responsible:
1. the solenoid is faulty,
2. the starter motor is mechanically or electrically defective.

About new battery:
The engine management system ECU is of the 'self-learning' type meaning that as it operates it adapts to changes in operating conditions, and stores the optimum settings found /this is especially true for idle settings.
When the battery is disconnected, these 'learned' settings are lost, and the ECU reverts to the base factory settings. When the engine is restarted, it may idle and run roughly until ECU has 're-learned' the best settings. To further this 'learning' process, take the car for a road test of at least 15 minutes duration, covering as many engine speeds and loads as possible and concentrating on the 2000 to 4000 rpm range. After road test, let the engine idle for at least 10 minutes, turning the steering wheel occasionally and switching on high current draw equipment such as the heather fan or heated rear window.

 

Yes, I would test the amps on the starter. I'm not sure what it is like to change the starter or how much they cost, but it might be the first thing to try and replace. But yeah, I would run the amperage off that starter and see if it's normal.

 

Starter was removed and tested, operates fine.

What should I try next? Here is a short description of problem.

Has new battery, all central locking, headlights, and horn works. Insert key into ignition, turn, cooling fan comes on, turn to run, nothing at all. No beeps, no starter even attempting to crank.

Any thoughts?

 

I am having the exact same problem as you with my 97 c230. Did you ever get yours running.
please help

sal

 

first operation before starting is the gear position must be at "P" selection. Other wise it doesn't work.