2003 s500. temperature below 45 degrees, key WILL NOT turn in ignition switch. As sun warms up vehicle, starts like it should. Some sort of sensor----or a moisture gremlin?

Thanks in advance, Art

 

Hi,
There is always something new to learn!
The ignition key "talks" to the Electronic Ignition Switch EIS to ensure that the correct key is being used. This is powered by an inductance ring in the EIS so it will not be the batteries in the key fob. The IR system works the doors not the ignition.
Can't think how temp is adversely impacting either the EIS or key so will be interested in the outcome.
Is the key you are using is an original that has worked for a long period of time and not some form of replacement. Correct?
Best guess therefore its that it is the EIS but these are quite expensive.
Don't change out until you have confirmation via Diagnostic codes. You will need to go to an MB dealership for this. Body codes need special equipment to read them unlike OBD engine codes.
Suggest you take it in steps with the dealer. Codes. Diagnosis, Quote, Repair otherwise you can find yourself with an unexpectedly large bill!

Stuart

 

Did you fix it,I have same trouble..

 

have to use electric heater in car to get inside temp up.

 

2 modules and shifter---2450.00. we haven.t decided to do it yet. weather is warming up, may trade it in.

 

So what does the dealer advise is going on and why has it got anything to do with the shifter module?

I'm still struggling with the temp issue?

Have they lifted any specific codes or are they just changing the whole system in the hope that this will resolve the problem.

Can't think why multiple units would go down at the same time.

However, I wonder! Temperature!

I wonder if this is causing the transmission "adjustment" to move from Inhibit to Safe as the linkage warms up (expansion).

Before proceeding I would be questioning why two units and shifter need to be changed. I don't suggest the diagnosis is incorrect (although I have my suspicions) but would want to have the confidence that the dealer can explain what is going on and what could have caused so many units have gone down together.

A simple adjustment issue seems more probable.

Keep us advised.

Stuart.

 

as soon as my war department gets home, we'll dig out the diagnostic bill and send you the codes they pulled. 2 modules, 5.8 hrs. labor---2450.00. traded car last week. still have old reliable--'87 420sel---never fails, can't let go of key quickly enough when starting, HOT OR COLD!!!!!!! just hit 150k.

Art

 

Here goes: control unit ezs3--code b1016-no enable from control module ewm electronic selector lever module
" " egs1--code-p2001---component n15/3(etc[egs]control unit )is defective
" " ewm--code p1925---Driveauthorization has been refused by control module N15/5 (Electronic selector lever module (ESM (EWM))

Hope this helps someone, Art
PS $100.00 diagnostic fee

 

The dealers diagnosis based on the codes is not unreasonable however with a bit of TLC it may have been possible to fix the issues without changing modules.

Basically two problems.

P2001
NOx (Nitrogen Oxides) on one bank out of limit. This is due to a malfunctioning EGR Exhaust Gas Recirculatuon valve. A common problem with modern engines. Often an internal clean of the component will return it to working order. Gets clogged up with carbon / oil.

B1016
Signal issue between the gearbox selector and the ignition/driver authorisation/safety interlock system. COULD be a faulty gearbox selector/module but may also be "adjustment" since appears to work fine when warm.

Water under the bridge now.

Thanks for info.

Struart.

 

Wow! These are exactly the same symptoms I encountered a month ago. Solution was to replace the EIS. Drove it home but noticed that it was very hard to get out of park. Took it back to dealer and was told that the ESLM (Electronic Selector Module - Gear SHifter) needed to be replaced.

Not sure of the correlation between the EIS and the ESM. but grand total will be about $2400 when all is done. Sigh...

THanks though for the details in your posts. I am a new Mercedes owner (2003 s500 W220 Guard) and I love my car. I am just mad at it right now. Should have ESM replaced this weekend.

KDB