2008 C300 Steering locked / No Start
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Joined: Feb 2025
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2008 C300 Steering locked / No Start
Hello everyone, I need help with my 2008 c300. Car has 200,000 miles, runs and drives beautifully. Recently got a flat in the driver's front tire, started the car, turned the wheel to the left to get a plug in it and once turned all the way, I shut the car off. After plugging the tire, went to start the car and the steering was completely locked and no start. Car goes into accessory position and reads "remove key from ignition" on the dash. Had to get the car towed to my shop where its sat unable to be driven for around 6 months.
From what I've researched seems like there is a lock inside the column that can be fixed through a dealership for $1000 - $2000, also read that I may be able to reprogram a new key, or buy an emulator online to bypass the column lock. Idk how accurate any of this is and would love any help or information to point me in the right direction on how to fix this.
From what I've researched seems like there is a lock inside the column that can be fixed through a dealership for $1000 - $2000, also read that I may be able to reprogram a new key, or buy an emulator online to bypass the column lock. Idk how accurate any of this is and would love any help or information to point me in the right direction on how to fix this.
Member
Joined: Oct 2024
Posts: 225
Likes: 29
From: Pennsylvania, US
2008 C300 4Matic
Your ESL motor failed most likely. Replacing it is pretty tedious and not something I would recommend doing if you don’t have a few medium-difficulty repair jobs under your belt. Unfortunately it’s a very common problem on these cars and there’s really nothing you can do to avoid it.
As for the emulator to bypass it, some have had luck with those but I’ve also heard of a lot of problems. I personally just replaced mine with a new genuine part and will do so again if/when it fails again in the life of my vehicle.
As for the emulator to bypass it, some have had luck with those but I’ve also heard of a lot of problems. I personally just replaced mine with a new genuine part and will do so again if/when it fails again in the life of my vehicle.
