carbon_w204

hello guys

I'm new too the world of MB having bought my first , a Uk spec 2009 C200 CDI

love the car , but yesterday I've run into a problem , of which I thought was the keys at first , but turns out I was wrong

symptoms

key in ignition , lights (dash) turn on and make a click noise , nothing happens it wont turn on and it wont start , steering lock wont disengage ,how ever if I give the steering column an almighty! bash the steering lock(most the time) turns off and I'm able to drive all fine ,

what's your thoughts?

thanks in advance

gamma300C

Do a Search on the W204's ESL (Electronic Steering Lock)

Sounds like it may be in the fail stage. Some Forum posters tell how smacking the steering column in the early stages of ESL malfunction will get it to release..w/o release no signal to ECU, no start.

You should hear the sound of the ESL engaging/diengaging when you put the key in/out...a different "click..click means the release is hanging up.

If this is the problem, the Web has ample info on the various fixes and after market sources. If the ESL remains locked, you will have to tow the car if the dealer is your "fix".

The DIYer set will have to remove the ESL and EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) if ESL fails in open/disengaged mode and send those parts along with key to one of the Independent repair sites you'll find on line. If it fails in the "locked" position, the steering column with the now nonremovable ESL needs to be sent !! Or you can break the ESL, remove, and replace at no small expense. All methods need the key synch'd with the ESL/EIS.

The other way has people replacing the ESL with a "ESL emulator" which bypasses the ESL, again a Web Search gives the details.

https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/mer...20454581321020

http://xemodex.com/us/product/electr...-for-mercedes/


YouTube has several videos showing the removal process; the best one is from a UK shop which might be a good contact for you if you want the Dealer out of the picture.

carbon_w204

seems to completely failed now , as even a roundhouse kick didn't work (luckily outside my house)

Mercedes have quoted £1248.............

gamma300C

Sorry to hear that...MB here in the US of A want about $1,500.

If you are adventurous and don't mind having the car down for awhile , I would pursue the ESL emulator route since, if you plan on having your diesel for the long run, the ESL can fail again in as little as 50-60K KM's.

I leave the key in mine as much as possibly when garaged to "save" the $3.00 model car motor that MB uses in the lock, so it cycles less. Some say the key in may cause a battery drain but never a problem here.


Have you checked out the links or Googled some of the aftermarket outfits that pursue a fix for 1/5 th MB cost. The Canadian source does the job for $400 USD, shipping from COMUS included.

There is a YouTube video that shows how to unlock the ESL even when it fails in that position..not a real easy task as far as time but mechanical skill level is pretty low.

Good Luck

FCPEuro

I went the Xemodex route, solid service and the car was down about 4 days. The ESL was fully locked up, fortunately the column is relatively easy to pull.

--Kyle

carbon_w204

taken mine to a specialist , a lot cheaper labour rate almost half

I'm lucky as it failed completely with the steering lock disengaged
most of its done under a warranty so it works out cheaper , and the parts are guaranteed for 2 years