C-Class (W204) 2008 - 2014: C180K, C200K, C230, C280, C300, C350, C200CDI, C220CDI, C320CDI
Old Jun 15, 2015, 02:47 PM
How-Tos on this Topic
Last edit by: IB Advertising
See related guides and technical advice from our community experts:

Browse all: Engine Diagnostics
Print Wikipost

2008 C300 won't start

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Rate Thread
 
Old Apr 3, 2013 | 08:05 PM
  #51  
Genel's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
2009 c300
Happy to report that mbusa has agreed to pick up the tab on my part, but labor is on me. Dealer wants $870 for labor, but German Auto Repair quoted $490. I can live with this resolution...
Reply
Old Apr 16, 2013 | 03:54 PM
  #52  
shanavinastokes's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
C300 Sport 4MATIC
I am having the same issue with my 2009 C300 sport 88k miles. MB dealership is saying it is the EIS/electronic steering lock. They quoted me $1086 to repair.
Reply
Old Apr 17, 2013 | 02:57 PM
  #53  
aznmode's Avatar
MBWorld Fanatic!
15 Year Member
Photogenic
Photoriffic
Liked
 
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 1,544
Likes: 87
From: San Jose, CA
2010 c300
I'm hoping I'm not having this issue on my 2010 c300 but a few times my car wouldnt start. But I just removed the key, waited a second and tried again and it started. There does seem to be a lag from when I turn the key and the car starting so I'm not sure if that's something to be worried about. I think an extended warranty will be in order just in case....
Reply
Old Apr 17, 2013 | 03:05 PM
  #54  
Genel's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
2009 c300
Originally Posted by shanavinastokes
I am having the same issue with my 2009 C300 sport 88k miles. MB dealership is saying it is the EIS/electronic steering lock. They quoted me $1086 to repair.
I would DEFINITELY contact mbusa immediately. My case manager (Andrew) was extremely receptive and I challenged him to visit these forums or do a basic Internet search on this reoccurring problem in 2009 c-300. Mercedes owners should NOT have to worry if their car is going to start or not. Within two days, I received a call from my dealer that mbusa agreed to treat this as if I had a warranty. My total out of pocket was $350. I was originally quoted over $1300, so I was very pleased with the outcome. It also comes with a two year warranty.
Reply
Old Apr 18, 2013 | 04:16 PM
  #55  
acharm's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Mercedes C300 4Matic
Just called Sovereign Mercedes in Bklyn

They told me there was no recall/campaign for this-but there was another recall for the seal because it was leaking oil?? My car had the same issue as you all are describing but I had it fixed by a local mechanic Grrrrrr would have liked to save the $$
Reply
Old May 4, 2013 | 07:11 PM
  #56  
tasho3's Avatar
MBWorld Fanatic!
 
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 2,208
Likes: 22
From: Westmont, IL
2014 C63 Sedan
Sitting in a store parking lot right now. Seems like I have same issue with the lock! Never had this problem before but there seems to be power, head up display works fine, powere folding mirrors work fine but when I turn the key nothing happens. I hear a tik but that bout it! Steering wheel is locked as well!

Last edited by tasho3; May 4, 2013 at 07:20 PM.
Reply
Old May 4, 2013 | 07:19 PM
  #57  
Domm's Avatar
Super Member
 
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 591
Likes: 0
From: San Francisco
'08 Mercedes C300
Originally Posted by tasho3
Sitting I'm a store parking lot right now. Seems like I have same issue with the lock! Never had this problem before but there seems to be power, head up display works fine, powere folding mirrors work fine but when I turn the key nothing happens. I hear a tik but that bout it! Steering wheel is locked as well!
It could be a dead battery. I replaced the battery about a month ago in my 2008.
Reply
Old May 15, 2013 | 12:30 PM
  #58  
LILBENZ230's Avatar
MBWorld Fanatic!
 
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 8,384
Likes: 800
2019 G70 6MT & 2022 Ford Maverick XL
My 2011 (14,400 miles) did not start on the first try this morning. Turned the key, the wheel unlocked and all lights came on.. would not trigger starter. Second time it worked. Will have dealer document. Damn I thought they'd have this straight by 2011.
Reply
MB World Stories

The Best of Mercedes & AMG

story-0

6 Mercedes Models That Did NOT Age Well (But Are Somehow Still Cool)

 Verdad Gallardo
story-1

Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun

 Verdad Gallardo
story-2

Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren

 Verdad Gallardo
story-3

8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine

 Verdad Gallardo
story-4

Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction

 Verdad Gallardo
story-5

Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know

 Verdad Gallardo
story-6

Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know

 Verdad Gallardo
story-7

5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve

 Verdad Gallardo
story-8

Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping

 Verdad Gallardo
story-9

10 Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models You Can Buy Used

 Verdad Gallardo
Old May 15, 2013 | 07:37 PM
  #59  
aznmode's Avatar
MBWorld Fanatic!
15 Year Member
Photogenic
Photoriffic
Liked
 
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 1,544
Likes: 87
From: San Jose, CA
2010 c300
Is there any way dealer can tell if it's about to go out? My car is at the dealer now for strut tsb. The issue happened 2x on me already. But always 2nd attempt to restart always works.

EDIT: Found my answer on post 10. I guess I just needed to reread the thread again. It's too bad that they cant but I will definitely record it next time it happens so I have proof.

Last edited by aznmode; May 15, 2013 at 07:42 PM.
Reply
Old Jul 13, 2013 | 06:44 PM
  #60  
Bullmahimahi's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
C300
Cool Broke down 250 miles from home!

Of course it happens on a trip, love this car, never had a problem but damn I hate not being able to trust a car! Local foreign auto would not touch it, had to tow it 50 miles ($200) to Gainesville MB dealer. They diagnosed ESL, but of course don't have and it's a weekend! I had to get a ride home and now have to get someone to bring me back, not good! I've been in aviation maintenance my whole life, MB is aware of this problem and should make it right!
Reply
Old Jul 15, 2013 | 01:59 PM
  #61  
mjwilliams's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
C300
Well, I just heard back from MB company and they said that due to the fact that I have over 70,000 miles on the car, they said they wont provide any assistance with the repairs. So I have to absorb the $950. It's rather said that they choose to do nothing, but that's how it goes sometimes. I was planning on buying another Mercedes within the next year, but after this, I'll probably go with a different high end car company. Hope this helps.
Reply
Old Aug 12, 2013 | 08:34 PM
  #62  
joermed's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
2008 C300 Sport
Just happened to my 2008 C300

same issues as above...

-Car battery is only one week old.
-Changed batteries in Smart key

Went to start, turned key and nothing happened. NO noises, only dash lights.


Called MBUSA and they are towing tomorrow at no cost to authorized dealer. I voiced my concern with how many post I had seen over the same issue and they asked "are you called to ask for help with repair cost" I told them of course I was that its an obvious problem with the product they are advertising to be a quality, the best, etc.. She said "we have to wait to have it tested first before we can talk discuss any option". She again verified the milage asking "is the milage under 70k" to which responded yes. Ill update when I hear back from the authorized dealer. Wish me luck!
Reply
Old Oct 5, 2013 | 05:10 AM
  #63  
ImageX's Avatar
Junior Member
 
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 42
Likes: 0
From: dallas TX
man this just happened to me too.. If i got extended warranty it should be covered regardless correct??
Reply
Old Oct 5, 2013 | 07:25 AM
  #64  
ncglock's Avatar
Member
 
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 156
Likes: 0
From: Durham NC
E63
Originally Posted by ImageX
man this just happened to me too.. If i got extended warranty it should be covered regardless correct??
The warranty covered mine
Reply
Old Oct 15, 2013 | 01:12 PM
  #65  
reidly's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
2008 C300
No Luck from MBUSA

I had this happen to my 2008 C300 back in 11/2012 and I had to have the car towed to the dealership. The total cost was just over $1,000 and was not covered under warranty (vehicle had 57,000 miles on it). After following this thread for some time and continually seeing new instances of this happening to other people, I decided to call MBUSA today to see if I could get my case reviewed. They called me back within a couple of hours and said that there is no recall or service bulletin on this issue, but if there ever was one issued, they would let me know and would reimburse the costs I incurred. I mentioned that there were some people on this forum who got the repairs handled outside of the warranty, either in full or in part, but MBUSA said that would need to be discussed with the local dealer and a decision made by the Service Manager. This contradicts some of what others have said where they were successful in getting it covered directly by MBUSA. So I guess I am out the $1,000, but at least I know I tried to get it reimbursed. I hope others have better luck.
Reply
Old Oct 15, 2013 | 01:52 PM
  #66  
ncglock's Avatar
Member
 
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 156
Likes: 0
From: Durham NC
E63
Originally Posted by reidly
I had this happen to my 2008 C300 back in 11/2012 and I had to have the car towed to the dealership. The total cost was just over $1,000 and was not covered under warranty (vehicle had 57,000 miles on it). After following this thread for some time and continually seeing new instances of this happening to other people, I decided to call MBUSA today to see if I could get my case reviewed. They called me back within a couple of hours and said that there is no recall or service bulletin on this issue, but if there ever was one issued, they would let me know and would reimburse the costs I incurred. I mentioned that there were some people on this forum who got the repairs handled outside of the warranty, either in full or in part, but MBUSA said that would need to be discussed with the local dealer and a decision made by the Service Manager. This contradicts some of what others have said where they were successful in getting it covered directly by MBUSA. So I guess I am out the $1,000, but at least I know I tried to get it reimbursed. I hope others have better luck.
Mine was under warranty, although it was the extended warranty.
Reply
Old Oct 20, 2013 | 10:43 AM
  #67  
Tiziano's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Oct 2013
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
2009 C300
I have an '09 C300 with 71k miles on it. Just last week I had the EIS failure. Total cost was $1,118.00. Funny thing is the part only costs $283.00 the rest, as you all may know, is the labor costs. On the positive side, it only took 2 days for the dealer to get the part and install it.
Reply
Old Oct 25, 2013 | 09:23 PM
  #68  
kurt_werder's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Oct 2013
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
2008 C350
Smile 2008 C350 ignition switch problem/fix

I had the same problem key entry worked (doors, radio, etc. all worked), but no idiot lights or dash navigation -- car wouldn't start. service manager told me to jiggle the key and steering wheel. Still no good. I unlocked the telescoping steering wheel and slammed it in an out a few times -- then it started. MB elegance at it's finest.....
Reply
Old Nov 3, 2013 | 05:47 PM
  #69  
hustlegang's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
C350 Sport
Originally Posted by Bechul
Ah i see, they fixed mine under the camshaft solenoid recall, whatever they did it fixed it all and was also under my CPA warranty.
seems like i need to get a extended warranty because this has happened twice to me...
Reply
Old Nov 3, 2013 | 06:37 PM
  #70  
TheDocUSA's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
C300 4Matic
Hope this doesnt happen as much on the 09 model
Reply
Old Nov 3, 2013 | 06:38 PM
  #71  
hustlegang's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
C350 Sport
Originally Posted by JBailey
Turns out I have a bad electronic steering lock, or at least that's what they think it is. So it's getting replaced at $925 and hopefully that fixes it.
JBailey, did that fix your problem? I think i may have experienced the same issue 3 days ago....
Reply
Old Nov 4, 2013 | 02:42 PM
  #72  
c4933752e's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
C300 2008
MB C 300 2008 won't start

Same thing just happened to me , I stay in nigeria what are my options?
Reply
Old Nov 12, 2013 | 11:21 PM
  #73  
charles.soori's Avatar
Junior Member
10 Year Member
 
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 74
Likes: 4
From: Ontario, Canada
2014 ml63 and 2014 ml350 bluetec
I'm having the same problem error code
A25464 Electric steering lock has a malfunction. There is an implausible signal.
Do you guys think after replacing the steering lock my car would start or i would have to replace the whole EIS. My symptoms Steering unlocked and no response from the key when i turn it.
Steering lock is $365
Eis is $780
i'll rather start with the cheaper $.
Any help will be great and if anyone knows how to start the car temporary so i can move it that would be great as i have the Star Program and DAS.
Reply
Old Nov 20, 2013 | 01:38 AM
  #74  
docinact's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
c300
I have a 2009 c300 with 20000 miles on it. It won't start. Had to have it jumpstarted every morning and every afternoon by road side assistance for more than 8 times. The dealership
said they had to do a software update which would cost$480! If this does not help then replace the sat control unit?!!!! I am clueless. Had the same problems when covered under extended warranty. It just got worse after the last service for a month ago . Need help
Reply
Old Nov 20, 2013 | 10:57 AM
  #75  
dubdlux's Avatar
Junior Member
 
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 25
Likes: 0
'09 C350
ESL

I just had the electronic steering lock replaced on my '09 C350. Same symptoms as everyone mentioned - key in, wheel won't unlock, car won't crank. Thankfully I have 1 month left on my CPO warranty so MB picked up the tab for this one.
Reply


You have already rated this thread Rating: Thread Rating: 0 votes,  average.


All times are GMT -4. The time now is 09:24 PM.

story-0
6 Mercedes Models That Did NOT Age Well (But Are Somehow Still Cool)

Slideshow: Not every Mercedes design becomes timeless, some feel stuck in the era they came from.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-05-12 18:09:07


VIEW MORE
story-1
Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun

Slideshow: Yes, Mercedes built manual cars, and some of them are far more interesting than you'd expect.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-05-02 12:36:58


VIEW MORE
story-2
Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren

Slideshow: A one-of-one U.S.-spec Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster became even rarer after a factory-backed transformation at McLaren's headquarters.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-29 11:19:28


VIEW MORE
story-3
8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine

Slideshow: Before curves took over, Mercedes mastered the art of the straight line, and some of those shapes still look right today.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-25 12:05:49


VIEW MORE
story-4
Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction

Slideshow: The 190E Evolution II shows how a homologation necessity became a six-figure collector icon.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-22 17:53:47


VIEW MORE
story-5
Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know

Slideshow: Mercedes is turning one of its core nameplates electric, and the details show just how serious this shift is.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-21 13:58:06


VIEW MORE
story-6
Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know

Slideshow: Faster charging, longer range, and a controversial steer-by-wire system define the latest evolution of Mercedes-Benz EQS.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-15 10:35:34


VIEW MORE
story-7
5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve

Slideshow: These overlooked Mercedes-Benz models never got the spotlight, but they quietly delivered more than most remember.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-13 19:35:45


VIEW MORE
story-8
Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping

Slideshow: A well-used 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300D with more than one million miles is now looking for a new owner, and it still appears ready for more.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-10 10:05:15


VIEW MORE
story-9
10 Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models You Can Buy Used

Slideshow: From bulletproof sedans to surprisingly tough SUVs, these Mercedes models proved that the three-pointed star can go the distance.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-08 09:55:49


VIEW MORE