No need to hold the key in the start position when starting the engine ?

[NotFiona]

OK, I'm newish to Mercedes so maybe this is just a Mercedes thing? and they all do it?!
I've noticed with my CLK500 that I don't need to hold the key in the start position (starter motor engaged) until it fires.
It seems I just need to quickly switch to start for a second or so and then the computer takes over and keeps the starter engaged until it roars in to life.
Very different from my other cars, I'll get use to it but currently it feels a bit freaky.

 

[Tonygw]

yep they all do that..

 

[markjay]

Yes, as is the case with many other marques.

A quick turn of the key - or a quick press on the Start button - and the ECU does the rest.

 

[Stratman]

It's to relieve Mercedes owners from the pain, effort and misery of having to hold the key against a spring. They think of everything.

 

[colinallcars]

yep they all do that..

I thought it was only automatics?

 

[ALFAitalia]

My A Class doesn't (W169)....but my ALFA does....although that's not a key but it just needs a very quick push of the button to keep spinning her over until it starts.

 

[PolishGeorge85]

Maybe they've come up with this idea to stop problems with the ignition (spring).who knows.
You don't even have to turn the key all way to the end.
But if you wish you can still waste your energy to do it old way

 

[markjay]

But if you wish you can still waste your energy to do it old way

Indeed you can:

 

[Stratman]

^^^^ I've had a couple of cars with a starting handle, and very quickly learned to crank it with my thumb on the same side as the rest of my fingers. Those who know will know