96 C280 no start

[benzonline]

Hey Guys,

1996 C280
Just today my co-worker's neglected 202 finally gave in and didnt want to start out of the blue. When you turn the key, it sounds like you are turning on a vacumn cleaner under the hood until you let go...on/off and no clicking nothing.

What the hell could that be? Again, no clicking involved...some pump runs when you try to start the car and nothing else.

[xvvvz]

Are you sure that isn't the sound of the starter motor just spinning but never engaging with the actual engine?

[eug]

or the a/c or radiator fans?

[OzC36]

Electric starter-motor spinning but the starter pinion gear not engaging the engine flywheel?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Starter_motor

[benzonline]

Yup it was the starter. Replaced now and its working.

Thanks guys for the input!