ESL - Electronic Steering Lock
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2005
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From: Albuquerque
'10 CL550, '12 GL550
ESL - Electronic Steering Lock
No threads found searching both X164 and W164 forums.
So, I believe my Granddaughter's 2007 450 has suffered failure of its ESL. Symptoms ... steering wheel is not locked in place with ignition off AND ignition key (switched off) will not turn at all. This is not key failure.
Clearly this is an anti theft feature and the ESL and EIS (electronic ignition switch) work together.
There seem to be ESL "emulators" available on eBay with W204 most frequently shown. I've been unable to find WIS coverage of removing/replacing ESL and availability might be restricted in any event. I'm a bit old for working under dash and steering column in any event.
I feel fortunate to have discovered my favorite independent mechanic is a "licensed locksmith" and can take care of this problem. As with getting a new key, requires title and registration and driver's license.
That is, once the vehicle is flat bedded to his shop. THAT is a problem as obviously the vehicle has to be dragged on to the tow truck as without ignition switched on there is no shifting transmission from park. Dealer has a device to put on rear wheel hub once wheel is removed to somehow "neutralize" (my word) the drivetrain to facilitate vehicle movement, but indy doesn't have. There is talk of liquid soap! Hopefully some dollys will be used. Granddaughter will witness, not me.
Will update when I know more.
PS I doubt there is any preventive action available ... just a post to describe what could happen I suppose with just vehicle age.
So, I believe my Granddaughter's 2007 450 has suffered failure of its ESL. Symptoms ... steering wheel is not locked in place with ignition off AND ignition key (switched off) will not turn at all. This is not key failure.
Clearly this is an anti theft feature and the ESL and EIS (electronic ignition switch) work together.
There seem to be ESL "emulators" available on eBay with W204 most frequently shown. I've been unable to find WIS coverage of removing/replacing ESL and availability might be restricted in any event. I'm a bit old for working under dash and steering column in any event.
I feel fortunate to have discovered my favorite independent mechanic is a "licensed locksmith" and can take care of this problem. As with getting a new key, requires title and registration and driver's license.
That is, once the vehicle is flat bedded to his shop. THAT is a problem as obviously the vehicle has to be dragged on to the tow truck as without ignition switched on there is no shifting transmission from park. Dealer has a device to put on rear wheel hub once wheel is removed to somehow "neutralize" (my word) the drivetrain to facilitate vehicle movement, but indy doesn't have. There is talk of liquid soap! Hopefully some dollys will be used. Granddaughter will witness, not me.
Will update when I know more.
PS I doubt there is any preventive action available ... just a post to describe what could happen I suppose with just vehicle age.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2010
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Likes: 784
NGL450 w/EORP, S550
This failure mode is a thing with W204 as I have discovered because I am trying to find one for my daughter. From reading on those boards, the fix is simply an emulator that plugs in. you lose the functionality of steering wheel lock though, which on an old car like this is pragmatically ignored.
In lieu of taking it to your “licensed locksmith”
Perhaps have a mobile mechanic come to you and install this emulator.
In lieu of taking it to your “licensed locksmith”
Perhaps have a mobile mechanic come to you and install this emulator.
