I hope you're all doing well. I recently purchased a car from an auction that came with keys and had no visible damage. However, it's not starting up. I've already replaced the battery and the battery terminals (including the one with the sensor). When I press the start/stop button, the car goes to ignition, but the engine won't start.

I also checked the auxiliary battery and its connector, which seem to be fine. Upon running diagnostics, I got these error codes: U016800, indicating a malfunction in communication with the electronic ignition lock (stored error), and 014600, indicating a malfunction in communication with the central gateway (current error). I checked the current flow, and it’s not reaching the starter from the ignition.

I visited a few nearby garages, and one mechanic told me that the Electronic Ignition System (EIS) needs to be replaced and reprogrammed. However, he quoted a price that is almost half of what the car is worth here in the UAE, which seems excessive to me.

this is what i found online.

• Check All Wiring Connections: Before spending on a new EIS, make sure all wiring and connectors related to the ignition, ECU, and central gateway are properly connected and not corroded or damaged. Sometimes loose or corroded wires can cause communication errors.
  
• Battery Voltage Check: Ensure the new battery is at the correct voltage. Many modern cars require a stable 12.6V or higher to properly start. Low voltage could lead to miscommunication among modules.
  
• Central Gateway Module (CGW): Since you're also getting a central gateway communication error, it could be a malfunction of the CGW itself. The CGW acts as a communication hub, and if it's faulty, it could prevent the EIS from communicating with other necessary components.
  
• Alternative Diagnostic: It could be worth getting a second opinion from another garage, particularly one with expertise in automotive electronics or a Mercedes specialist (assuming it's a Mercedes). A specialized mechanic might have the right tools and experience to reprogram the EIS without replacing it.
  
• Used/Rebuilt EIS: If replacing the EIS is truly necessary, you might consider sourcing a used or rebuilt unit. While it will still need to be reprogrammed, it could be a more affordable solution. There are companies specializing in automotive electronics that might help with this.
  
• Look for Faulty Modules: Another possibility is that one of the modules the EIS needs to communicate with is faulty. This could be anything from the steering lock to the transmission module. Ensuring all these modules are working and communicating properly might solve the issue.
  
  Replacing and reprogramming the EIS can be expensive because of the reprogramming and the way it's linked to the vehicle's security system. Make sure you explore all less costly options, such as repairing or reprogramming existing components, before opting for full replacement

 

moved to W213 forum...

 

you need to depress on the brake pedal
then press the start button.

Else you'll need to get the fault codes retrieved to help diagnose your particular issue.

 

You could start with replacing the ignition module and reprogramming it, if that does not work, I would sell the car, it probably has some serious damage to the electronics.