FloridaAMG

So I went to go for a drive and my 2003 E55 AMG is pretty dead. I say pretty dead only because some stuff still works.

The Bad:
The key fob does not work with both sets of keys. (Car does not respond to buttons being pressed)
With key in ignition nothing happens. no noises, no cranking, no power on, etc.
The only buttons that seem to work are body controls like seats, lights, radio.
Steering column and shifter are locked in place. Steering wheel does not move when I try to adjust with button.
When I reconnect the battery, the mileage shows for a few seconds then reads "------"

Things I checked:
Key fobs have new batteries. The indicator light and infrared light both signal that they are working
The aux battery has at least 12.7 V
The trunk battery has at least 12.7 V and passed on my load tester
I checked every fuse in the vehicle with a volt meter and visually for continuity. Yes, all 4 fuse boxes. The one under hood, driver side dash, passenger floor board under ecu, and trunk.
All connection seem tight and proper
I tried breaking the steering free without luck

I am out of possible easy solutions at this point and have no clue what is going on here. Best guess right now is the EIS ignition switch where you put the key in is not working from reading posts. Yes, I searched pretty thoroughly. Does anyone have an idea that I have no thought of yet?

konigstiger

Could be ignition switch is not recognizing key(s).

FloridaAMG

Do you know how to test or fix this issue?

konigstiger

You will need to pull fault codes, and switch is a theft-related part only available from dealer.

FloridaAMG

Is it possible for me to put fault codes with the key not being able to power on the car?

konigstiger

http://www.mercedesmedic.com/mercede...epair-ezs-eis/

FloridaAMG

Thanks. I feel like my only remaining option is to tow it to the dealership. This should be fun.

FloridaAMG

Update: the car has been at the dealership for over 2 months. They replaced the key, EIS key switch, and steering column lock module. Nothing has fixed the issue and they have a ticket open with MB USA to diagnose the issue. They have no clue what’s wrong with it. At this point it may be electrically totaled.

rbm

Maybe mice chewed through wires or harness in a hidden place in the car. Have they looked for such damage?

FloridaAMG

Anything is possible at this point. We will see what they can figure out. I know they looked at the modules and some of the wiring harness and can’t seem to find any corrosion, water, or any other obvious signs of damage.

The Thomas J

God, I can't imagine the bill that is going to be attached to this. Good luck.

FloridaAMG

$3,200 is the bill. Apparently a chaffed wire took out the front SAM, EIS, and the central gateway. Not sure how I’m going to pay for this.