ESL Replacement ?
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Glk350
ESL Replacement ?
Hi guys new here, im wanting to replace the ESL motor on my wifes 2012 GLK350. It is currently working fine but i know it's only a matter of time so im wanting to replace it as a preventive repair. i've done this on a c63 amg that was stuck. but i have never done on on a car that it was working fine on. im curious if the process is different. how do i go about keeping the ESL unlocked is it best to turn the ignition on and then disconnect the battery terminal or go under and unplug the ESL?. also do i need to remove the column? i know the issue is the bolt that goes through the column will not move in the locked position requiring it to be manually unlocked. but mine is still working so is it possible to just drop the column some and with some creative extensions and sockets remove the ESL and replace the motor?. any help is greatly appreciated. I just don't wanna damage anything by unplugging the battery with the ignition on or unplugging the ESL.
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2014 GLK350 base model (active) ; 2001 E320 base (retired); 2001 Wrangler soft-top
But, to me (obviously my opinion only), this is like stating, "our tires only have 5,000 miles on them, but we will have replace them eventually, so will do it now".
What's the real influence for this project ?
I know, there are folks (as you've stated) that have had to do this because of failure, but the issue seems rare to me.
Last edited by calder-cay; Mar 24, 2025 at 01:51 PM.
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Glk350
Sorry, I don't have a solution.
But, to me (obviously my opinion only), this is like stating, "our tires only have 5,000 miles on them, but we will have replace them eventually, so will do it now".
What's the real influence for this project ?
I know, there are folks (as you've stated) that have had to do this because of failure, but the issue seems rare to me.
But, to me (obviously my opinion only), this is like stating, "our tires only have 5,000 miles on them, but we will have replace them eventually, so will do it now".
What's the real influence for this project ?
I know, there are folks (as you've stated) that have had to do this because of failure, but the issue seems rare to me.
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I bought a replacement ESL some years ago but haven't gotten around to installing it. My main interest is to get the ESL "dismounted" so it no longer locks the steering wheel. Just want it hanging by the wires and then tie wrap it to a nearby location. I assume some of the failures may be due to stress on the little motor and worm gear as they engage the locking notch. If the motor assembly only has to move one direction and the other, no longer forcing some sort of engagement, it may not even fail during the life of the car - not that it's a given it would otherwise fail during the life of the car. Worst case basis is that it still fails but at least your steering is not locked and the ESL is reachable under the dash. That gives the opportunity to tap on it to maybe get it working or if you drilled the access hole you may be able to manually move the mechanism to get it working (get the engine started). If none of that works and you have to get towed to the dealership for ESL replacement and programming it should take less time and be cheaper to get done as it will be easier to access. Of course I would want it replaced but NOT reinstalled as normal - just hanging there. I'm sure an M-B dealer may take issue with that but maybe not.
Last edited by MBKLUE; Mar 24, 2025 at 02:51 PM.
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From: South Texas
2014 GLK350 base model (active) ; 2001 E320 base (retired); 2001 Wrangler soft-top
I didn't realize that when it dies, there is ZERO workaround (temp fix). I also didn't know there is no "sign" that it is going bad.
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2014 GLK350 base model (active) ; 2001 E320 base (retired); 2001 Wrangler soft-top
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I'm waiting to get over my procrastination. Then remove the original ESL from its normal location and replace the little electric motor assembly. The ESL will be left electrically connected but not re-installed where it belongs. No more locking steering wheel but that's not an issue for me.
So, to be clear, I haven't done anything yet other than procrastinate (and buy a spare ESL motor).
As you may know, the ESL does not just lock the steering wheel but it is also integrated with the engine immobilizer. I seem to recall reading that an ESL failure can end up being a $2000.00 "experience" at your M-B dealer.
Last edited by MBKLUE; Mar 25, 2025 at 02:37 AM.
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2021 GLB250 FWD, 2023 GLA250 FWD, 2013 C250, 2015 GLK350, 2005 ML350SE, 2003 E320
https://automotivetechinfo.com/2019/...ystem-4-works/
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Yes. If you want to drive yourself completely crazy, read on:
https://automotivetechinfo.com/2019/...ystem-4-works/
https://automotivetechinfo.com/2019/...ystem-4-works/
My head hurts.
They should have programmed-in an "age timer" that bypasses much/all of that nonsense once the vehicle reaches 7 or 8 years old. Who's trying to steal a GLK these days? It's old at this point, doesn't have high tech infotainment and isn't shaped like a bar of soap or a candy bar, which most people want now, it seems. If you're going to risk prison for stealing a vehicle you're going to steal something you can sell at a worthwhile price. That would not be a GLK or similar value Merc. from that era.
Last edited by MBKLUE; Mar 25, 2025 at 02:44 PM.
