Mercedes Steering Lock Failure is One of the most annoying aspects of driving a Mercedes. You can notice it when you insert the fob into the ignition and get no response. This is caused by the electronic steering lock failure and prevents your car from starting.
Mercedes Steering lock failure symptoms
- you need to turn key in the ignition several times before lights turn on dashboard;
- key turns in ignition but no dashboard lights;
- steering is locked on with key in ignition;
- steering lock is OFF with no key in ignition;
- after having a flat battery or jump starting the car one of the above is happening resulting in NOT BEING ABLE TO START THE ENGINE.
Mercedes steering lock failure is a common occurrence in some specific models below.
- W204 C Class 2007-2013
- W212 E Class 2008-2013
- Also others models but mainly affected above ones.
What to Do?
If the steering lock of your Mercedes is faulty, the ignition does not turn on.
When you are faced with a steering lock failure, it’s important to have the right information or idea on what is happening to your Mercedes. The following are ways in which you can affordably fix a Mercedes steering lock failure.
Seek Help from Your Dealership
When diagnosing your Mercedes, you will notice the following error codes; A25464, A25407, A25408, A25409, etc. At times, it’s even a little difficult to distinguish between the fault latch from a malfunction of the ignition switch.
In case of a steering lock failure and you have no expertise in this area, give the car to your dealer. They will be able to help you in repairing this issue fast enough.
This option is however expensive because dealerships do not have repair options. They will only replace and you know how expensive dealerships are.
Seek Help from an Auto Locksmith
To avoid the hustle that comes with the steering lock failure immediately consult an automotive locksmith in your area. A locksmith who is specialist in Key programming including programming keys for Mercedes benz can solve this issue at a faster speed compared to what you can take.
An auto locksmith can do a bench test on the EIS, ESL and the Key to know where exactly the problem is and help save you the cost of buying unnecessary parts.
If the steering lock is the victim, a locksmith will suggest the following affordable solutions:
1. Install an ESL(steering lock) Emulator
This is a durable way to repair this issue and is not costly. The steering wheel will not be mechanically blocked. The electronic emulator simulates the operation and the car will be able to start as normal.
2.Replace the ESL Motor
This is a cheap option that will go a long way in solving the steering lock failure. These few ways will ensure that you are not a victim of the Mercedes steering lock failure.
Among the two solutions installing a new steering lock emulator is the most recommended because it solves the problem permanently. Replacing the motor will not solve the problem completely. Emulator also helps to do away with the mechanical locking and locking of the steering lock which is attributed to the failure.
If you are experiencing the same problem with your Mercedes benz, Please contact Autokey on +254797 118699 or send a message to Keys@autokey.co.ke