Ignition Problem 1987 260E

Until yesterday my 1987 260E has ran fine. Although it would take some time to turn over on the first start of the day, it would run perfectly once started, and subsequent starts were much smoother.

But yesterday after a normal trip I parked the car and returned 20 minutes later only to find that the car wouldn't start. I get no clicking nor does the engine turnover when the key is turned in the ignition.

Ive tried to read the forums and such to find similar problems and I've found some that are close to identical that were as simple as replacing the ignition switch. But my problem either has a 2nd related problem or a completely unrelated problem possibly. When the car is in Park or neutral (key in the ON position) there is an audible whirring or buzzing sound emenating from the bottom of the vehicle towards the rear. Is this related or a completely different problem?

If you think you might know what the fix is please post here and let me know or send me an e-mail directly.

The sound you are hearing is probably the fuel pump priming. I would think that you have a neutral saftey switch that has gone bad. Try turning the ignition on, put the vehicle in neutral, then turn the ignition off and try to start it. Report back and we will go from there.

The sound you are hearing is probably the fuel pump priming. I would think that you have a neutral saftey switch that has gone bad. Try turning the ignition on, put the vehicle in neutral, then turn the ignition off and try to start it. Report back and we will go from there.

I've tried that as well, but no luck.

Well I guess it back to basics, Fuses, battery, starter solonoid and/or starter motor, ignition switch plate...check in that order.

ARGH well I fixed the problem, I took off the dash covers to expose the ignition switch which I bought for the car, and I find a switch like a regular on off switch pushed up under the dashboard, so I say what the heck, I flip the switch and the car now starts just like before.

Is this ghetto switch factory or did someone try to get crafty with anti-theft aftermarket. The funny thing is although the wiring looks jury rigged, there is actually a punch out in the dash cover for it to stick out of. It had just been pushed up in there during the course of the years.

Your right, I think you stumbled on an aftermarket anti-theft switch. Glad you found and fixed the problem.

Your right, I think you stumbled on an aftermarket anti-theft switch. Glad you found and fixed the problem.

So am I. I just wish that I would have opened the dash before trying to replace the cheapest part first =+)