Weird Problem - Any Clues?

[W124 Project]

On Saturday, I got in my car, but when I turned the key in the ignition, nothing happened. Tried turning the headlights on and they didn't work either.

Got out of the car, locked it with the remote (which was working fine), unlocked it, tried the headlights (and this time they worked), put the key in the ignition, turned it, and the car started. Weird.

Car started normally for the next 3 or 4 days, then it did the same thing the other day.

I'm baffled, cos it's like the battery is dead, but the car still locks/unlocks, and when I lock it/unlock it again and put the headlights on, it starts fine.

Is this a common problem or a completely weird one?

 

[GP801]

Are you always locking /unlocking with the remote? Immobiliser only arms/disarms with the remote. If you use the remote to lock and then unlock with the key it may result in everything being dead but still a bit odd that the lights did not work.

 

[W124 Project]

I always use the remote to lock/unlock. I never use the key in the lock.

 

[GP801]

In that case not really sure. Perhaps the OVP relay with a dodgy contact?

 

[stwat]

It could be a faulty ignition switch on the back of the barrel.

 

[kth286]

my thought too.

 

[jaymanek]

Hmm lights should work even with no ignition... It depends on how the alarm is wired..

Have yo checked the main terminals on the battery arent loose?

 

[RBYCC]

Is it a factory or aftermarket remote?
Possibly there is an "immobilizer" in the circuit that kills all power ?