I have a 2001 Mercedes C240. Since the weather has been getting cold lately, I have had a problem starting the car. When I try to start the car, it makes no sound. After several attempts, the engine will start.
A local mechanic says that the starter is ok.
What could be the problem?
I'd be looking at the battery. If the terminals are not nice and snug and preferably coated with an anti-corrosion solution, they can appear to be connected but not actually be connected enough to fire the starter.
Also, today's modern batteries are Calcuim based, which makes them lose capacity abruptly if they've ever gone flat. Typically though, the cold weather just makes the car harder to start, and the battery struggles. But you are not describing that particular case as you say there's no noise.
It is odd you don't hear a noise. Here's another possible cause:
Mercedes use a BUS system to activate various electrics. The A-class was notorious for this sudden misbehavior, see this article. Your auto mechanic may not have noticed the electronic solenoid.
I suspect the cold weather has simply caused the fault to become more evident, rather than being the cause itself.
Here is a few tips for starting a car in winter:https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-start-a-car-in-cold-weather
Other people do have these problems
I would look for a relay in the starter system that is getting balky when its cold.
