Al Wayne

I have a 2009 R350. It has been a great car, but recently it began to hesitate or not start when the key is turned. One of the first times it happened, a message came up saying it did not recognize the key. That has not happened since, but the problem continues. Sometimes if you turn the key and hold it for a second or two it will start. Sometimes it takes twenty tries. We have two keys and it does it with either key. The car battery seems fine. When the key turns and there is no response, it is like the car is dead. No dash lights, etc. We are 400 miles from the nearest dealer and need help! Any ideas would be appreciated.

Al Wayne

Testing

Evil E55

Yes your EIS is bad this is a common issue on the R, GL and ML vehicles.

Bluehardtail

Al--I hate to be the bearer of bad news but it sounds like the common EIS/ESL problem that Mercedes has been aware of since 2008 and just keeps raking in money for repairs instead of a recall. Mine was a 2010 c300 that started just as you say. The only one that has the equipment to diagnose (how convenient!) is the dealer. I was 2 months out of warranty with 35,000 miles. My bill was $2,000 for both units! MBUSA offered me $150.00 for apparel at the dealer! Wow!
I got the car back on a Thursday and it was traded in on a BMW 335xi on Saturday! The BMW is twice the car as the Mercedes! I got rid of mine before the word gets out. I'll never buy another MB product! Check out this forum and other forums for others that have been screwed. Search EIS/ESL. Sorry you were added to the extensive list.
Good luck with your problem. Please post if you find out what it is.