Car isn't starting when the key is in the ignition

[pana.vali]

When I put the key in ignition it isn't making any contact and it refuses to start. I checked the car key battery by unlocking the doors and closing them and also the car battery by turning on the board lights and that worked as well. I originally looked it up on google and some said it is a faulty steering lock but I thought I should get a second opinion as I'm not a mechanic so I do not want to rush into things I do not know about. I would appreciate some help. Thank you.

 

[Blobcat]

The key uses a passive chip in the key to start the car - the lock /unlock function is unrelated

The EIS switch (Ignition) can fail - do you have another key you can try?

 

[pana.vali]

The key uses a passive chip in the key to start the car - the lock /unlock function is unrelated

The EIS switch (Ignition) can fail - do you have another key you can try?

I tried the second key as well, that was not making any contact either, the issue remained.

 

[Blobcat]

Sounds like EIS issues - a few threads on here, please have a search

 

[pana.vali]

Sounds like EIS issues - a few threads on here, please have a search

Would it be possible to get a link for it as I do not really have an idea for what I should look out for.

 

[Blobcat]

Below are a few - EIS / Ignition Problem / Not starting are good search parameters

EIS failure!

My EIS has had a brain fart. (w203) Key fobs won't open door and not recognised by ignition switch. When opening the doors with the key blade the indicators go mad. I have removed the EIS module (what a mission that was, most of the dash apart!!) and it's going to a local mercedes specialist...

forums.mercedesclub.org.uk

Electronic Ignition Switch (EIS)

Few weeks ago, my car was involved in a minor accident (another hit me on the back bumper) and given to a garage to change the back bumper and some paint work to take off few scratches. The car never had any startup problems before. The garage informed me that the work has now been...

forums.mercedesclub.org.uk

EIS Switch

Hi I am hoping someone will be able to help or advise! I have a Mercedes C180, (52) and for the past week or so the car has had no electrics Inside the car. Also if I am inside the car and turn the engine off, when I restart I have to lock and re-open the car for the engine to start. I...

forums.mercedesclub.org.uk

EIS problem

Hi all, my 2001 W202 had to be recovered home by the RAC because I could not get the key to register when inserted into the ignition. I have tried the spare key, also with no joy. I have noticed the air bag light beside the gear shift is on all the time, it's normally only on when the ignition...

forums.mercedesclub.org.uk

 

[pana.vali]

Below are a few - EIS / Ignition Problem / Not starting are good search parameters

EIS failure!

My EIS has had a brain fart. (w203) Key fobs won't open door and not recognised by ignition switch. When opening the doors with the key blade the indicators go mad. I have removed the EIS module (what a mission that was, most of the dash apart!!) and it's going to a local mercedes specialist...

forums.mercedesclub.org.uk

Electronic Ignition Switch (EIS)

Few weeks ago, my car was involved in a minor accident (another hit me on the back bumper) and given to a garage to change the back bumper and some paint work to take off few scratches. The car never had any startup problems before. The garage informed me that the work has now been...

forums.mercedesclub.org.uk

EIS Switch

Hi I am hoping someone will be able to help or advise! I have a Mercedes C180, (52) and for the past week or so the car has had no electrics Inside the car. Also if I am inside the car and turn the engine off, when I restart I have to lock and re-open the car for the engine to start. I...

forums.mercedesclub.org.uk

EIS problem

Hi all, my 2001 W202 had to be recovered home by the RAC because I could not get the key to register when inserted into the ignition. I have tried the spare key, also with no joy. I have noticed the air bag light beside the gear shift is on all the time, it's normally only on when the ignition...

forums.mercedesclub.org.uk

Thank you, I believe that this is the problem, could I bother you by asking if you knew the price range to get this fixed in a London area.

 

[Blobcat]

Thank you, I believe that this is the problem, could I bother you by asking if you knew the price range to get this fixed in a London area.

Not a clue unfortunately. @alexanderfoti might be able to help

 

[pana.vali]

Thank you for your quick response and help today.

 

[star]

Most probably the steering lock motor, can you hear the steering lock engage and disengage when the key is inserted and removed? If this isn’t working, the key will turn but the ign will not turn on or start.

 

[pana.vali]

Most probably the steering lock motor, can you hear the steering lock engage and disengage when the key is inserted and removed? If this isn’t working, the key will turn but the ign will not turn on or start.

The steering lock motor was the problem with the car and it cost £750, but you couldn't hear if it engaged or disengaged. Thank you for the advice.

 

[KMB]

Afternoon,

I'm having a similar issue with the ignition switch and am planning to send for repair.

I've googled and found a few companies, does anybody have any suggestions?

Prices range from 150 to 300 for the repair service.