If you have a Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W204) or E-Class (W207, W212) and are managing a irritating steering lock issue, you are not alone. This is a well-documented and typical issue that can leave you stranded, not able to start your automobile. The normal indications of this failing include your ignition secret not turning, the steering wheel continuing to be locked, or a control panel message stating "Steering Column Lock Faulty."
This fault lies with the Electronic Steering Lock (ESL), also referred to as the Electronic Ignition Lock (ELV). This mechanical part is made to safeguard your steering column when the secret is gotten rid of. Gradually, the internal electric motor in the ESL/ELV unit can stress out, creating it to fall short. When this takes place, the car's electronic ignition switch (EIS) will no more connect with the lock, paralyzing the cars and truck and rendering it unstartable.
The Trouble with Traditional Services
When this fault occurs, a common option is to take the auto to a dealer. While they can fix the issue, the standard solution is commonly both taxing and pricey. A primary dealer will commonly suggest replacing the entire ESL/ELV unit with a brand-new one. This part is expensive, and the process to configure the new unit to your vehicle's immobilizer system is intricate, needing specialized on the internet coding that adds to the overall cost. The wait time for parts and service can likewise be substantial, leaving you without your car for an extensive duration.
The Modern Fix: An ESL/ELV Emulator
A smarter, extra dependable, and significantly much more affordable option is to utilize an ESL/ELV emulator. An emulator is a tiny electronic gadget that permanently bypasses the defective mechanical steering lock. It resembles the signal of a completely practical steering lock, enabling your automobile's Electronic Ignition Change (EIS) to obtain the appropriate communication and enable the car to start.
Since an emulator has no mechanical parts, it is not at risk to the exact same wear and tear that triggered the initial unit to fall short. This makes it a long-term solution for the issue, guaranteeing that you will certainly never experience the exact same steering lock issue once more.
The Benefits of an Emulator Fixing
Affordable: A steering lock emulator and the connected repair work service are dramatically less costly than acquiring and programming a new unit from a car dealership.
Long-term Remedy: By changing a mechanical part with an electronic one, you eliminate the risk of the problem persisting in the future. This is a real "fit and fail to remember" option.
No Programming Problems: A expert solution will configure the emulator to be a "plug-and-play" substitute. This suggests all the required protection data is currently coded to the emulator, so you can merely install it in your car, and your car will certainly prepare to start. There is no demand for facility, on-line programs.
Security Intact: Regardless of bypassing the mechanical lock, a appropriately coded emulator does not compromise your car's protection. The emulator is set to your car's distinct ignition switch and key, so just the right key will certainly be able to begin the car.
Just How the Service Works
A reliable automobile electronics professional can perform an ELV fixing using an emulator. The process is straightforward:
Eliminate the EIS and Secret: You will need to very carefully remove your vehicle's electronic ignition switch (EIS) and send it, along with mercedes w207 steering lock fault repair a functioning trick, to the fixing expert.
Professional Shows: The specialist will certainly read the data from your EIS and program a brand-new emulator to completely match your automobile's safety and security information.
Ship Back: The expert will certainly return your EIS, trick, and the newly set emulator to you.
Mount: You can after that mount the brand-new emulator in your car. It will merely plug into the initial circuitry, and your cars and truck will prepare to start.
This structured process offers a rapid turn-around, saving you money and time while giving you a irreversible option to a common Mercedes W204/W207 steering lock fault.