car wont start
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2017
Posts: 21
Likes: 0
GLK 350
car wont start
greetings. first post
so i tried to start my car today and i insert my key, turn it to the on position, all the instruments and lights turned on as normal. radio works and all. when i tried to start it, nothing. no lights dimming, no sound of the starter turning over. when i try to start it, nothing turns off, the radio kept playing with no interruption for example.
side symptom, the windows do not lower even when the key is in the start position as it usually would.
I tried jumping the car and it made no difference. put a meter on the battery and it read 12 volts the entire time, no dipping in voltage. the key fob still works and can lock/unlock and open and close the trunk so i dont think its a key fob issue.
there are so many reasons for the car to not start based on my google but i couldnt find the exact conditions that I had.
Any ideas?
UPDATE: it is the ESL. is there a DYI for replacing the ESL unit?
so i tried to start my car today and i insert my key, turn it to the on position, all the instruments and lights turned on as normal. radio works and all. when i tried to start it, nothing. no lights dimming, no sound of the starter turning over. when i try to start it, nothing turns off, the radio kept playing with no interruption for example.
side symptom, the windows do not lower even when the key is in the start position as it usually would.
I tried jumping the car and it made no difference. put a meter on the battery and it read 12 volts the entire time, no dipping in voltage. the key fob still works and can lock/unlock and open and close the trunk so i dont think its a key fob issue.
there are so many reasons for the car to not start based on my google but i couldnt find the exact conditions that I had.
Any ideas?
UPDATE: it is the ESL. is there a DYI for replacing the ESL unit?
Last edited by engineerjet; Jul 26, 2017 at 01:36 PM.
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 379
Likes: 41
From: Jersey Shore
2012 GLK
When you put the key in does the steering wheel unlock?
this thread may also get you started
https://mbworld.org/forums/c-class-w204/621422-esl-problem-help-needed.html
this thread may also get you started
https://mbworld.org/forums/c-class-w204/621422-esl-problem-help-needed.html
Last edited by B737; Jul 25, 2017 at 07:32 PM.
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2017
Posts: 21
Likes: 0
GLK 350
what makes you go in that direction? i just tried wiggling the steering wheel and turn on the ignition and everything worked. I have no idea if they are related and to be honest at this point im worried about driving on it since i do not know the cause.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2015
Posts: 2,583
Likes: 342
2013 glk 350
Does your volt meter read to .00 , because 12v is nearly dead and may not run things. 12v is around 40-45% charged on an AGM battery. 12.75-12.8 is full charge . I think under 12.4v you can have issues. If you have Eco shut off, you have two batteries
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 861
Likes: 38
From: Philly area
350 GLK, C280
Sure they are related. B737 knew that the steering lock release keeps the start system from engaging. This may be a faulty part in the steering lock or it could be a once in a lifetime deal. You never said how old the vehicle is, how many miles and whether diesel or gas. It all makes a difference. If the lights didn't dim, that is the first indication that it isn't the battery, that something is keeping the starter from engaging.
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 334
Likes: 10
From: Northern California
2016 GLE300d 4Matic
Mercedes starting sequences are so complex I think it's a wonder these cars start reliably and consistently. Turning the key sends a handshake to the ECU confirming that the ignition module is authorized for that ECU and then the key is authorized. Then a Drive Authorization Command is sent which permits fuel pressure, power for the ignition system, and then power to the starter. Some of the much smarter people on this site can modify my comments because it's from memory of talking to my tech as well as research when the car wouldn't start once.
I find sometimes my key will turn on all the auxillary systems but not start the car. I turn it off, take the key out and try again. It usually starts just fine. When I asked about this I got the complex answer I shared. In a way, I was sorry I asked. I look back fondly to turning a key which closed a relay and away we went.
Your battery at full charge should be between 12.6 and 12.76 volts.
I find sometimes my key will turn on all the auxillary systems but not start the car. I turn it off, take the key out and try again. It usually starts just fine. When I asked about this I got the complex answer I shared. In a way, I was sorry I asked. I look back fondly to turning a key which closed a relay and away we went.
Your battery at full charge should be between 12.6 and 12.76 volts.
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 379
Likes: 41
From: Jersey Shore
2012 GLK
If the ESL is ok, and it sounds like what youve described that it is functioning, the next stop should be to check the function the EIS.
Charles.soori who we are lucky enough to have as an active member here, has solutions for these bits when the break. its in the thread linked in the 2nd post.
I agree with Hawkins, its amazing these things even start, they really turned something simple into something needlessly complex.
Charles.soori who we are lucky enough to have as an active member here, has solutions for these bits when the break. its in the thread linked in the 2nd post.
I agree with Hawkins, its amazing these things even start, they really turned something simple into something needlessly complex.
