Thanks to all you folks that help out on this forum. You guys are all great - sorry for the many posts, but wanted to keep suggestions separate.

My '98 ML320 does this weird thing sometimes. I turn the key in the ignition and the engine "blips" for a tenth of a second and then won't start. Sounds like it wants to, but no. I end up locking the doors electronically (with the key), then unlocking them, reinserting the key and try again - usually works 2nd time sometimes 3rd time. Any thoughts on this? I replaced my batteries in the keys and it still does it.

Thanks in advance for taking the time to read this.
Bart

 

So you think your key is preventing you from starting your car? Maybe because since your key uses an anti-theft system that may be the issue. The vehicle has to recognize the key using infra red, electronically...something like that and maybe it's not the key, but the reciever. ?

 

Having the same problem. My engine blips a couple times but won't start. Did you ever solve the problem?