A-Class "Start Error" code - Help....

[6179brett]

When trying to start our A-Class the dash lights would not always come on, when they did we could start the car, then they didnt nothing! Engine wouldnt turn. Turned out to be part of the ignition barrel. Change all ok - this was a year ago, now the same problems has started again. I took all the connections of the barrel to check to see if there was any wear but all seemed OK, put back together now we get a Start Error message on the dash and your not able to do anything else! Tried disconnecting battery, replacing battery in key FOB not luck? Any Ideas? Wife nagging and all that..........Help!!

 

[type49]

The plastic outer trim around the switch has a wire from it, to a unit under the dash. This "trim" reads the code in your key & lets you start the engine. If it's come unplugged you will get "Start error" in the dash LCD. The unit is found slightly to the right of the steering column, about 15" back from the steering wheel.

 

[mattkh]

Turned out to be part of the ignition barrel. Change all ok - this was a year ago, now the same problems has started again. I took all the connections of the barrel to check to see if there was any wear but all seemed OK,.....Help!!

Hi
Please put up a picture of the ignition switch and the plug going to it. That will be a great eye-opener.

 

[6179brett]

- Thanks!! Start Error now clear, and car starts, but I have the SRS light on now! Any ideas?

 

[type49]

What was the problem?? Have you had the steering wheel off with the key still in the ignition?

 

[6179brett]

Hi Yes, the problems was with the outer trim not connected - so thanks! The SRS light is on as I think the key got turned or battery got connected, so a trip to merc's is on the cards! I've just been out to try and start it, and the original problem is back! Turn the key to the first click then the radio comes on and some of the dash warning lights and all's happy, turn the key around to the second click then all the dash warning lights go off and nothing, similar to a flat battery, but every now and then all the ldash warning lights come on and the car will start. I think its something to do with the ignition switch but cannot be sure. Any Ideas?:-(

 

[mattkh]

I think its something to do with the ignition switch but cannot be sure. Any Ideas?:-(

Put up a picture of the ignition switch and the plug to it.

 

[shelley5281]

Hi I have a a170 CDI and its done the same thing suddenly stopped working - Lights come on but does not turn over message on dash start error. Wire from key surround checked and is connected. Is there any way to bypass this thing to get startedand get the car home. Help please