I got myself into a bit of a pickle. I bought a project that i can't get going. I replaced the starter because when i tried to start it i got a no crank but smoke started coming from the starter. Now that it has a new starter I'm still not getting it to crank, I have power at the starter relay and the relay is good. I have a few symptoms that I know are related but just can't diagnose the module aat fault for the root cause.

1) steering column won't lock
2) car won't shift out of park when key is turned to the 2nd notch, also reverse lights won't turn on in reverse, brake lights do activate.
3) Code - n73 Electronic ignition lock EZS - Low Voltage

These cars don't have a transmission Park Reverse lockout, could it be the solenoid in the shifter? how would i diagnose that? any ideas on where to go next?

I know i'm an idiot, i bought this "after it was parked for just having an airbag blow"

2004 E320 4matic Estate

Time to start reading. Answer will be here in W211 section. Whatever issue you are having, someone will have had first.

start with voltage and ESL

Get a new battery or charge the current one. These cars are picky about voltage.
Also check the ground strap which is conviently located under the car, somewhere around the transmission IIRC.

Get a new battery or charge the current one. These cars are picky about voltage.
Also check the ground strap which is conviently located under the car, somewhere around the transmission IIRC.

My E550 showed a red battery symbol on the display panel for a while. After driving it for a while and restarting the symbol would disappear.
One night I stopped at Starbucks I turned the ignition off while waiting at the window. The car wouldn't start. The car was locked in park. I had to call AAA for battery service. The AAA arrived in about fifteen minutes jump start the vehicle so I could move it away from the window. AAA check the battery and alternator. The battery was at 24%. I had checked the battery at Firestone a week before and it was at 92%. AAA said he wasn't sure if it was the battery or the alternator.. He didn't want to sell me a battery that I didn't need.
I drove the vehicle home and parked it over the weekend. The radio was changing from disc player to FM as I was driving to Starbucks. I corrected a couple of times.
I took the vehicle to my MB shop. He replaced the alternator and the radio problems started. The alternator was new from an authorized dealership. The shop taught the alternator was defective and replaced it the next day. No more battery problems.