Hi, I do hope someone can help with this. I have at 1999 230 clk cab. The car was not used for about 2-3 months and is parked in my driveway, when I went to use it last week it would not start. Had the battery checked and charged and it is OK. When I put the key in ignition all dash lights and ancilleries work, but turn to start position and all I get is a 'click'. Got a local mechanic to come and have a look under the bonnet, when I turned key to start car smoke was coming from starter motor. Thought this would be straight forward enough but mechanic has said that it might not be starter. What he done was put car into neutral and turned the engine from the pulley belts to see if there was free movement. He said this could eliminate a major engine fault. This was fine.

So I expected him to come and remove starter moter today. Now he says that he has to remove engine cover and plugs to check and see if the timing belt has jumped a cog? Is this feasable? Is it likely? Am I about to be parted with a serious amount of money by this mechanic? Any help, suggestions and advice would be greatly appreciated.