Steering lock issue

2008 MERCEDES BENZ C180
80,000 MILES • 1.8L • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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FRANCOK
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I drove this morning and parked my car somewhere. On return, the steering had locked, and the car couldn't start although the key functions well, but it wont start or even switch on ignition.
I have bn told that's a common problem in these cars, but I need to sort this out as I need the car working.
Does anyone have an idea to the solution here?
Thanks
Aug 19, 2019 at 2:20 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Welcome to 2CarPros.

Does anything on the vehicle work? For example, are the lights working? When you say the steering is locked, can you move it when the key is installed?

Let me know.

Joe
Aug 20, 2019 at 6:31 PM
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FRANCOK
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The ignition lights do not come on when you turn the key, although the key turns well. And the steering is in constant lock. Doesn't turn.
Aug 20, 2019 at 10:48 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Welcome back:

Are you sure the battery isn't dead? Also, have you checked the main ignition fuses under the hood in the power distribution box?

Here are a few links you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-battery-load-test

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-car-battery

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-car-fuse-works

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-fuse

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

Normally, I have schematics to view for checking this type of problem. However, this vehicle model isn't showing up for me. That may mean you are not in the US.

Let me know about the fuses and the battery. Also, make sure the battery terminals are clean and tight.

I will watch for your reply.

Joe
Aug 21, 2019 at 5:19 PM
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FRANCOK
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Thank you so much for your response and assistance. I had all the vehicle electronics checked and all were found okay. It was later discovered that it's the Electronic Steering Lock that was faulty, and have bought a new one which will be replaced this weekend. The car is in London - UK
Thanks so much for all your help.
Franco
Aug 21, 2019 at 11:24 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Welcome back:

You are very welcome. I'm glad you identified the problem. Many of these vehicles are affected by fuse issues. That's why I started there. The last job similar to this was on an Audi A8. Had to replace the entire steering column. Not cheap.

Let us know if we can help in the future.

Take care in London!!! I always wanted to visit / vacation there. Maybe someday.

Joe
Aug 22, 2019 at 8:56 PM
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FRANCOK
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Always sir! And London will welcome you with open hands.
It's really expensive. I have bought a full steering column with the ESL attached to it. It will as well require reprogramming am told.
Most importantly, hopefully it will last sometime before I get rid of it in due course.
Thanks so much once again, and hopefully will meet you when you finally visit London.
Have a wonderful weekend, and regards to all your loved ones.
Franco
Aug 22, 2019 at 10:26 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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You are very welcome!!! Take care and I hope one day I will make it there. Starting to get too old at this point. LOL

Hope to hear from you in the future.

Joe
Aug 23, 2019 at 11:59 AM