ESL compatibility
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Newbie
Joined: Feb 2021
Posts: 1
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2010 Mercedes C300
ESL compatibility
Hey guys, I am a new owner to a 2010 C300 and just recently had an ESL failure (I'm one of the cool kids now). I was wondering two things:
1. Is it bad to use a W204 ESL motor in my car or it doesn't matter? And
2. How do I know if my ESL is in the unlocked position? My key can be inserted and turned; after insertion I can hear a few ticks as if the gears are trying to turn, so does that mean I am in the unlocked position?
I've decided to use my own tools and work on my own time to try and fix the issue, but I don't want to fry the chip and mess it all up before I even start. Any feedback would help - thank you.
1. Is it bad to use a W204 ESL motor in my car or it doesn't matter? And
2. How do I know if my ESL is in the unlocked position? My key can be inserted and turned; after insertion I can hear a few ticks as if the gears are trying to turn, so does that mean I am in the unlocked position?
I've decided to use my own tools and work on my own time to try and fix the issue, but I don't want to fry the chip and mess it all up before I even start. Any feedback would help - thank you.
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 613
Likes: 297
From: Republic of Texas
W203 W212 W211 R53MCS
You have 3 choices pretty much...... Get a genuine one installed, get an emulator (need to remove steering lock completely from column) or replace the motor inside the ESL (given the fact that it has not set a hash error). The only choice that is a DIY will be 3. But keep in mind that if you are using those $10 Ebay/Amazon motors chances are it will fail soon. If you want to know what position the ESL is..... try turning your steering wheel. If it turns then it is unlocked and if it doesn't then it is in the locked position.
