W168 A-class 170 CDI Start error on dash

[badger17]

Hi, I have bought a Merc A-class as a non-runner as i work at a garage. The problem with the car is that the words 'start error' are displayed when the ignition is turned on and the car will not crank at all. I dont know the full story with this car but the car was stood for a good year in which the battery went flat, whether the car was like this before i do not know. I understand the W168 is very delicate on the electronics with regards to power spikes etc.

I took the car to a local dealer who did a few tests and, in my view, gave up and pointed at the ECU being at fault. This may be the case but i am just exploring other possibilities before i take the plunge. I have gained access to the immobiliser system under the O/S dash trim which had the oddest aftermarket system attatched to it. The system was routed through this aftermarket system which was then routed into the back of the speedo clocks and back, then into the original alarm sytem etc etc. I took all of this system off and replaced all the connectors to their original location i.e in the speedo and 'homogalation' box. Still no joy with the car and removing all of this hasnt changed anything, the key still operates the alarm etc.

I have done some investigative work at the start relay and everything is there except the power on the brown/red wire is not switching to earth as it should to activate the starter. When i feed an earth in to the relay the car will crank but not start so presuming pump etc is immobilised. I do read another post on here that talked of the same problem, cured by resetting the ECU with a star machine. I was going to look at the key next, wondering if it has lost its code or something?

If anyone could be of any help with this problem it would be greatly appreciated. Also does anyone know of a way to bypass the ECU just to get the car running?

Thanks in advance
David

[NEOKEN]

Originally Posted by badger17

Also does anyone know of a way to bypass the ECU just to get the car running?
David

Not possible.

[KRMOTO]

l have read that if your key will turn the ignition then the key is fine.
my 168 cdi 170 is also playing up and it also was stood with the battery flat for a long time, also the alarm siren has'nt worked since but the hazzards work when the alarm is activated.
does the cold start light on the dash come on with ign on? if not does the radiator cooling fan come on? because that is what mine is doing.

[lofty]

From my limited experience the message 'start error' comes up when the the wrong key or an unsynchonised key is used.
There is a re-set /synchonise procedure in your hand book and is repeated on my site. It would be worth a try.
Also 'ECUtesting' (see mypage 38 for contact details) can undertake repairs on your ecu so don't fall for the MB con that the ecu cannot be repaired . They will test for £35.00 less 15% discount if you mention my site when placing your order.
You could also try using the reset key for the alarm immobiliser if it's a 'scorpion alarm' fitted you have a red and black key either should re-set the immobiliser the socket if its a scorpion alarm in in the glove box outside panel.
Hope that helps.
Lofty
Bert Rowe's-A-class info. Hazard warning, car keys, Central locking.
mypage.38.htm
mypage.51.htm

[araminia]

Hi guys,

I have a 1997 SL320 (R129) and this morning I got the START ERROR message. I'll give you some fact:

The car is cranking well (igintion smooth and strong) but it just will not start .... I have to mention that for the past few weeks I had been getting my ABS & ARS lights on (sometimes) while starting and I would turn off and on and the lights would go off.....furthermore for the past few days the battery light had turned on and off (very briefly) while driving (only 3-4 times during the past week). I must add that the thermometer socket on the front-left hand side (underside) of the car is hanging loose as the thermometer has been broken off.

Please help out!