W203 C220CDI wont start.

[Johnny]

So turned car off last night and this morning will not start. All electrics are working and battery has 12.5 volts at rest. Turn the key and diesel pump kicks in relay click and nothing.. any suggestions rather than me take it to a stealership or local mech??
Have checked fuses all ok.

Thanks

John

 

[Stratman]

Turn on the headlights and see if they dim when you try to start it.

If they don't there is no current reaching the starter motor. Suspect the solenoid or starter motor itself.

If they dim, current is reaching the motor but it's not turning the engine. It could be a worn ring gear.

 

[Johnny]

little job for tomorrow, see if i can find the starter motor

 

[Johnny]

she's alive

walked upto car this morning glared at it and then tried one last attempt to start before taking a hammer to it.. As if by magic it now starts.. will get a diag check done tomorrow ..but any comments would be good .. seems it may be intermittent