Why can't the Mercedes-Benz C200 start even though it has power?
5 Answers
The reasons why the Mercedes-Benz C200 cannot start despite having power are: 1. The starter is damaged; 2. There is an issue with the ignition system or fuel supply system; 3. There is a problem with the electrical circuit. In such cases, it is recommended to immediately go to a 4S shop or a professional repair facility to read the fault codes. Only by reading the fault codes can the exact problem be identified. The Mercedes-Benz C200 is a mid-size sedan under the Mercedes-Benz brand, with body dimensions of 4784mm in length, 1810mm in width, and 1457mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2920mm. In terms of power, the Mercedes-Benz C200 uses three engines in total: a low-power version 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, a high-power version 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine.
Hey buddy, I've encountered this situation a few times. When a Mercedes C200 has power but won't start, the most likely culprit is the starter motor acting up. Worn carbon brushes or a faulty solenoid switch can cause this - you'll hear a clicking sound when turning the key but the engine won't crank. A stuck gear position sensor in Drive that won't return to neutral can also lock out the starting system; you'll feel resistance when pressing the brake and moving the gear selector. Don't overlook the fuel pump either - when it fails, no fuel reaches the engine. You might hear the engine turning over but it just won't fire up. Last week when checking a neighbor's car, we found the smart key battery was dead, triggering the anti-theft system - just replacing the battery fixed it. If warning lights appear on the dashboard, it's best not to keep trying to avoid blowing fuses.
My C200 had the same issue a while ago, took ages to diagnose. First check for poor contact between the start button and key - try placing the key in the cup holder induction zone. The crucial component is the crankshaft position sensor - if it fails, the ECU won't receive signals and will refuse ignition (new coils and spark plugs won't help). Low fuel pressure could also be the culprit - listen for humming near the tank to check fuel pump operation. Mercedes' anti-theft system is hypersensitive - minor impacts can trigger engine lockout protection mode. The most annoying are wiring harness aging issues causing intermittent shorts - hidden but causing recurring error codes. Never attempt ECU removal yourself - botching it causes bigger problems.
The answer depends on the specific symptoms. If the dashboard lights up when turning the key but the starter doesn't engage, first suspect the starter relay. It's usually thumb-sized in the engine bay fuse box and can be tested by unplugging and replugging. If there's cranking sound but no start, check the fuel and ignition systems: pull a spark plug to see if it sparks, and pinch the fuel rail return line to test fuel pressure. Don't forget to inspect battery terminal oxidation - poor contact can cause ECU misjudgment. Mercedes has extensive electronic controls; error codes from the engine or transmission modules can chain-lock the starting function. Last year I saw a case where a magnetized crankshaft sensor caused signal loss - replacing the sensor fixed it for just 300 yuan.
Don't panic when encountering this situation, follow the steps for the most reliable check. First, check if the gear is stuck outside the P position, then ensure the brake pedal is fully depressed. The starter carbon brush has a lifespan of about 100,000 kilometers; when worn, it spins without engaging the gear. Mercedes' anti-theft system is particularly finicky—if the key battery drops below 3V, it won't work; try bringing the key closer to the start button to see if it's recognized. Fuel system issues are also common; the fuel pump relay is in the fuse box under the passenger footwell—press it with your finger to listen for a clicking sound. If the crankshaft sensor plug gets wet and shorts, it can mislead the computer; try unplugging it and drying it off. Remember to check the engine compartment fuses, especially positions F32 and F34—replace them if they're blown.
