Thanks Peter! Long day today for me. Was told the starter and start relay needed to be replaced, which was why all the dash was working , but got nothing when I tried to start it. Yes my starter seemed to be going and looked terrible when the mechanic took it out. So I replaced it. Also replaced the starter relay which showed signs of burning/wear. The car started once and quit on me again. I got the ESP malfunction message and right after that saw this video. Cleaned the key, new batteries, car started right up. I was forced to do some preventative maintenance and then blessed to see your video. It’s been a good day. Thanks again.
Thanks so much Peter for your clear repeatedly explanation. Your video helps me to solve the key fob locked problem. I have Mercedes ML500 2006 so as you know I lost one spare key, the existing one having the case kind of cracking at the LOCK and UNLOCK area. Similar to you I bought $5 case (after market made) and replaced it. It works fine for 2 years and I recently found ABS/EPS malfunction message and LOCK button doesn't work anymore. I have to make sure nothing valuable left in my car when I left it in the company parking lot... it happend for few weeks and I worry about something I might be left in my car. So tonight I started searching youtube for LOCK issue in the remote control, which I thought I have to spend 3-400 bucks to fix this issue. Lucky me to see your video, Gosh, and lucky that I save the old original case so I replace it back, the LOCK button works fine. at 12:30AM, I'm glad that fix my lock button so I started the car and run few miles with the hope that it should also help for "ABS/EPS, malfunction message" but it doesn't help. If you have any idea, please share with us. Thanks so much for your time to make this video, fantastic. Tony
Thanks for the video. The camera showing the infrared is a great way to see that the remote is working somewhat, sans the generic case. I also seam to have an issue with the copper battery terminals on the pc board wearing out.
This video saved me as I had the same symptoms, but this was not my problem. When I opened up my key fob and pulled out my circuit board, I noticed a copper rectangular piece dangling and one wire was broke off. I later found, one side was for the door locks which still worked cause that was the side attached, the side that was broken off recognizes the ignition. On a hunch because it would require such a small solder, I called my local jeweler and asked if he could repair it, $15 and 5 minutes later it was fixed and my 2009 ML350 started right up. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction.
I could not get the circuit board out, but cleaned with a cue tip and bam! the car starts now! Thanks!! I was getting those ESP malfunctions while driving too before the key stopped working altogether.
Just saved me $5.00 and a lot of heart-ache! Thanks. The problem with all modern motor dealers, is mostly, they just replace items they think are the likely cause and if they're not, it's just tough luck for the customer!
Wow i couldnt start my car i was about to need a tow and god know what else i watch ur vid and sure enough a ball of lint was at the tip of fob cleaned it and started right up. Thanks on the big save there much appreciated!!
OMG!!!! THIS JUST SAVED ME!!! I went to get it cleaned out and there was a piece of fuzz right there in front of the sensor!! :-D OMG I'm so happy right now!! thank you so much!! :-D
Thank you peter for making this wonderful video. I found exact problems as you've described with my S500 key. You've saved me so much time and headache. Best!
I know im randomly asking but does anybody know a way to get back into an Instagram account?? I stupidly forgot the account password. I love any tips you can offer me!
@Kristopher Lennon Thanks for your reply. I found the site through google and Im trying it out now. Seems to take a while so I will reply here later with my results.
@@explorinlearnindoing5462 does your car lock and unlock from inside the car? If so, key fob will need reprogramming. If not, check fuse for door locks
@@PeterZafra The problem has been solved, by itself. I think it was of washing the car that tje fusebox in the back may have become wet, via the sunroof or rearlights...
Here is what fixed the "key that won't turn" in my case. 2001 E320, same fob as Peter's in the video. Learning ^from Peter^ that there is a LIGHT of some kind that has to shine up INTO the key, I thought maybe (A) the little light down in there is burned out or (B) the switch that turns that light on is bad. What I did was, I stuck a dry Q-tip down into the key slot and briskly poked it in and out about 40 times. Eventually on one of these pokes, I heard the steering lock mechanism engage, so I tried the key. It worked. Tried it several more times and it was hit & miss, but at least now I feel that if it sticks again I can do the Q-tip trick and hopefully not get stranded somewhere! Good luck and thanks Peter for the video! It was definitely a step in my process, to clean the fob ("key") but ultimately it turned out to be something down inside the ignition reading slot ("keyhole"). Perhaps there is some way to clean the insides of the ignition reading system down in there but for now I'm keeping a few Q-tips on board! Thanks Peter!
I know I might get in trouble for releasing this info. But what the heck. Yes some times it can be a dirty lens on the key, such as lint. Or dirt on the IR portion on the EIS electronic ignition switch itself. And if that's the case clean as the video describes. But 99 percent of the time it's the ESL module's drive motor located inside a metal box mounted to the steering column. Inside that small motor it has brushes that burn up over time. And just before total failure it will work intermittently. Ive been repairing Mercedes Ben's vehicles for years. " AND HERE IS THE TRUTH" We replace both the ESL and the EIS and sometimes even the keys all together. With new virgin units. After installation they must be re-flashed with the MB'S star tool. That's standard procedure. This is the way Mercedes wants the repair done period. But here's to secret. There are plenty of videos showing how DIY'S can open the ESL and just replace the small brushed motor. If you Repair it with only the motor, the car "DOSE NOT NEED TO BE RE-FLASHED". If your Mechanical skills are 8 out of 10 and have the basic tools such as a metric sockets and Torx's drives, and about 2 hours, than your good to go. You will save your self not only a tow to the Mercedes dealer. But on the average of about 1600 US dollars for the repairs. Just look on either Ebay or Amazon. And type, "Mercedes Ben ESL motor" The motors cost about 15.00 US dollars. Good luck from your friendly Mercedes tech.
I have a 2002 clk430 and I have lost the key what is the cheapest and easiest way to solve a lost key? I still have my valet keybut not the infrared fob . If you can give me any info please email me at mcietimothy@gmail.com, any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
I have a 1999 C230 Kompressor, W202. The tip start worked intermittently, sometimes requiring several tries to start the car. I tried a number of things including new relay, new starter and solenoid, new fuse box, new battery and removing the key assembly to have it checked over with the keys. All to no avail. Finally a light dawned and I realized that it is an infrared key. I cleaned the tip of the key with glass cleaner and I wiped the inside of the ignition latch with q-tips. Problem resolved. Hope this helps.
Thank you for the advice. It was useful to know about in more detail the inner components of the key fob. Both my key fobs stopped working recently. The main one had multiple cracks in the plastic (like yours) but the spare key looked in good condition. I have a year 2000, E240. I changed the batteries but still no luck. I called the recovery service and they suggested it was the ignition reader and suggested that they tow me to garage. I declined. A mechanic friend brought a diagnostic machine which gave 'equivocal results' and suggested the same until he noticed the red lights did not light up on the key fobs when pressed. He tapped each one gently with a screw driver and one started to work! Unfortunately within a week, this fob failed again and the trick with the gentle tapping did not work. I have recently ordered a new key from Mercedes. However, this evening I saw your video. Unfortunately I could not remove the circuit boards to clean the keys (and I was a little afraid to damage the circuit board) but swapped the part that holds the batteries between keys and one (the old cracked one) started to work again (red light came on). Your video was very helpful and re energised me to have a go myself! I will keep the new key as a spare when it arrives but knowing the key itself was the problem rather than more expensive components has saved me a lot of money. Thank you.
Hey Peter Big huge thanks to you and your info Exactly what u have said I found a len inside my keys Really thank so much And my car now works just perfectly Today is sep-14-2018
Great video! One way to get out of the ESP jam is to turn the key to second ignition. Then turn the steering wheel max left and max right. Then start the car and it will start up. Sometimes it's not even necessary to turn the steering wheel to max, just turning it a little bit to the left and a little bit to the right will do the trick. Cheers!
After sitting for 45 mins i saw this message n video and this trick worked....bam just lil rt turn. Lil lt turn n started...THANK YOU .. Gonna clean fob today
We have a Mercedes Benz C320 and it's locked!After we watched this video we were following it and perhaps either the battery needs to be change because there's no light sensor on the key.Please advice us what to do---------From Washington State.
With the batteries in the keyfob, turn on your phone camera and press the button of the remote against the camera. You should see flickering. Only the phone camera can see the light. Not your eyes. Try that first. If you don't see it through the camera phone, then it needs new batteries
I have a 2001 C240 when I turn off the engine the dash screen shows 1 malfunction do you think is my remote o something else and thanks for the video is very helpful
The infrared part isn't what starts the car it only locks & unlocks doors & windows! Radio frequency is what unlocks steering, transmission & starts the car. So it's possible for the key fob to work to unlock the doors without unlocking ignition & starting the car.
I had the same problem with mine. Didnt lock or unlock it but worked with starting the vehicle. I heard the antenna is the problem and of course to change the antenna is a painful process. I had the second key fob which was brand new and still didnt work with lock/unlock feature.
As far as I can tell my key works fine but I saw on your video that you can see the IR light when you press on a button but I can't on mine. Which may be the problem when I press the open button and hold it for 5 sec or so the windows open including the sunroof without starting the car but only sometimes.
You can only see the IR light when infront of a camera. Our naked eye cannot capture that. Double check while you have your phone camera on. I'm sure you'll see it then. Cheers
Great video man! Never thought of this and came across a lot of built up dirt and dust, key don connects right when I put it in the ignition now!! Thank you!
ESP inoperative message. But no warning symbols on dash. Car starts and everything thing working. So is it possible only my remote need battery’s and or cleaning or new Key fob? I’m going to start with the minimum cost first of course.
Definitely try battery first. Check fuses. For ESP inoperative, I've personally not dealt with that yet. Join some MBZ forums as well as more people may have dealt with your exact scenario and car. Do Check battery and fuses first. If remote starts and unlocks car, that might not be the issue but Check for lints inside remote as well. Cheers
Hi Peter. My Mercedes key fob does not lock the car (ML350) from outside, but it does open it when locked manually from inside. Even the physical key does not lock manually. Would you be able to help diagnose the issue. Thanks in advance.
Unfortunately I cannot diagnose that issue. Have you tried changing the batteries? Make sure to clean the fob as much as possible. That could help you. Hope you get it solved. Cheers.
@@PeterZafra Thanks Peter. I changed the battery without success. I noticed that when i press the lock button, the red light is not blinking. I'll try to clean the fob as recommended. Tx.
Hello, I have a slk 200 r171 2004 and the remote control stops to open and close the doors. It changes the batteries but it still does not work, infrerojos sends I saw it with the camera of the telephone. I think the command is deprogrammed. How could I program it? Is there a way to put the key in and press the buttons, or do I have to take it to the official service. a greeting
on my key fob for a 2008 clk 350 the red light flashes but the white infrared litedoes not. please tell me what that means or a solution to fix thanxvalare
Take it apart and dry it first. Remove the batteries. It's a hit or miss. Hopefully it wasn't damaged. Dry, reinstall batteries. Fresh ones if you can. Then see if it works.
I have the problem when I put key fob in ignition, it won't turn. I'll have to take the key in and out a few times to eventually turn and start BUT the annoying part is the panic button. Itll go off at times trying to start my vehicle. How can I solve this?
Try cleaning the key fob first. This was my issue as well. Sometimes lint gets in the fob and blocks the sensor and prevents communication between car and remote. Let me know if it works. Cheers
I have a 2005 S500. When I got the car it had just one 2025 battery in the fob. Even had the fob replaced. Changed the battery and it only had one battery inside. My fob looks exactly like the one in the video. So all these years I am supposed to have 2 batts inside. Doesn't look like it will fit 2 batts inside mine.
Just purchased a used 2001 MBZ e320, and began having electrical issues. The previous owner never changed the button batteries in the Key FOB remote. The signal is just not strong enough so sometimes it does not open or close the doors. In addition, the previous owner, never checked the car battery or replaced it. She owned it for four years before I bought it from her. So I immediately began having ESP, SRS, ASB, etc. you name it. So now I have a car without any power, thankfully I left the rear window open so that I can get into the car, but when I use the Key FOB remote or try to start the car, nothing happens. Can't even turn the key in the ignition. We tested the car battery and there was ZERO power. The meter showed nothing. Hehehe. DEAD AS A BOARD. So now I have to get a new battery, which just happens to be installed under the rear seat, no matter the previous owner never checked it. You have to remove the rear seat to get to the battery. What a design nightmare, if there ever was. You would think the Germans would get something this important installed under the hood where it belongs. I love my e320, but hate it forthe above. !!@@!!
If you look under the hood (bonnet) there are extra + and - terminals provided on the W210 at least, so you can charge the battery without accessing it under the seat. They are next to the big fuse box.
I'd had a problem with my 2007 E 350 and not sure it was the key fob. It would crank kinda non stop and engine wouldn't start. Have you heard of this? One's a while back almost towed it home.
Make sure the unit is properly programmed. It could lose communication if the battery is replaced or if the car battery falls below voltage. Your year might also have an auxiliary battery. Make sure that is also good.
You are correct in that there is a division in the middle of the window. I think the reason this didn't work for you is that it is for an older car. I have a 1999 C230 and the circuit board extends down to the window and creates the division. Further, on my key there is no additional slit to the side.
I have a 1998 E300D and the key refuses to stay in the Ignition. It always starts fine...but I have to keep track of where the key is when I am driving to shut her down ! Weird !
see the comment below, the reason I believe it works without the battery is--- there is a coil inside the fob and I believe it generates a voltage to power the IR sensor when is inserted in the key hole and that is what makes it work. The coil is fairly rugged for the frequency it operates at about 433 mhz. The coil that is in there is perhaps to induce from the vehicle a voltage to power the infra red transmitter. But it mentions the the small windows in front of the fob can be dirty with fuzz, make sure you do not scratch the fob lens and the lens on the key hole. Good luck. my vehicle will crank and run without the batter pack. Juan
Thank you for the fast reply. I am checking the fuses and found two voltages of .7 and .5 mili volt on two fuses from the sound system. This equates to about 1 amp drainage. I removed the fuses and am waiting till tomorrow to see if the battery is drained. Process of trial n error lol. Thanks again.
My 03 Mercedes’ Benz c230 won’t crank/start replaced alternator, starter have a new battery , put in key it turns all the way turns everything on headlights , all lights on dash board , radio , locks and unlocks car but car still won’t crank or start any ideas ?
I have a e500 that was running great then one day it stopped while i was driving all the lights come on still but if i let it sit over night it goes dead I charged battery it started after 30 turns and when i lock my doors with my key fob the car doesn’t start up anymore i would have to play with it for like a hour and it shows esp then reduce engine power for braking
AL MOSHENI have you changed the battery on the remote? Or have you changed the battery on the car? Usually, when you change the car battery, there are times when the car locks and other electronics need to get reprogrammed. I'm not 100% sure though. Also make sure to check the fuse for the door locks if there is one.
My car does the same thing I put the key in it and I won’t start the tip of the key is broken I don’t have the red cover on the tip Can that be the problem it was working fine as it was and one day it didn’t work anymore
You might want to get a new key fob case. It doesn't cost that much. Also, when you get an esp malfunction showing on the dash, try to slightly move the steering wheel left and right even if it's just a little then try to start again. Hope it works out for you. Cheers
I changed the battery in my key fob and light comes on fine but the car battery itself is dead and the key blade won't turn so i can open the door manually what else can i do?????
If the car battery is dead, you will need to jump the car from the passenger bottom floor panel. That would be your best point of access to jump start the car since the trunk won't open unless you can open the trunk and jump from there.
What is the problem if the red led flashes on the fob when you press the button but the infra red isn’t lighting when I check with a camera?Any help would be much appreciated.
That's a good question. Try changing the batteries and see if it starts working. Does the remote not work on the car? I figure not. If the batteries don't fix the issue, try cleaning out the fob. Sometimes, a big fur lint gets stuck and prevents the infrared from communicating with the car. Hope it helps. Cheers
I have a mbz 2005 c230 my fob does not work (buttons), I played around and found that if you take the battery out it will start your car. Thou you can not lock /unlock /trunk will not work. But try the fob without the battery. It works on my c230 without the battery -no lie. Juan
This is very helpful! My FOB problem is not 100% fixed yet but I got a lot of good info from this video. You asked how you can make your videos better? In my opinion, you could have made it much shorter. You tend to repeat yourself quite a bit saying the same things over and over. Hope that helps.
My problem is my fob will work only for 2 hours after it's put in the ignition. I have gotten the ESP message but it never stopped my vehicle. Please assist me! I did change my battery in my vehicle and my fob. I even changed the central locking fuse 8, still after 2 hours I have to use my metal key to enter vehicle. PLEASE HELP!!
My son just bought a e350 A few days ago It ran great Then in the morning he hoes to start the car and it wont kick over , the lights come on and you could hear the it trying to start but it wont kick over Could it be hes key fob ?. Any help would be awesom.
I am watching at " you Tube " electronic repair man making fortune Fixing " Mercedes " Fob s which I watch he does put on Videos how he was repairing Those Fob s most case problems were are broken or lose " coil " which had been install with out much support and when key fall , large coil come lose from Board " bad Design " which Mercedes have to look at that issue .
just bought a 02 c320 key wouldn't turn 2 separate mechanics said it needed a computer well i bought it for 1k with 85k miles in mint condition took the battery's out and then the chip just to find on the board a broken resister the one down next to the IR that's wrapped in copper just laying in the case so hoping I can get another Mercedes Key and just unsoldier and re-soldier the chip to the new board and zoom zoom lol we'll see
I appreciate you posting this video im gonna try it first thing tomorrow. My issue was when I got into my car and tried turning my key it pretty much didn't let me took it out and Put it back a couple of times nothing. Cleaned only the outside of key and ignition spot nothing. Than tried kinda pushing it in a little harder an giving it a little jiggle after a couple of tries it made a beep an let me turn the key all the way over to start the car. I was running late for work so just took off little did I know halfway down the street I realized everything on my dash was still off hp needle "0" Mph needle "0" Gas """0""" THIS IS MY LIFE!!!! Than I try an roll my Windows down cause its hot as $#&%.. nope. My radio.... of course that turned on an worked fine. AC nope!#!!!!###! So a 38mile drive to work. Than back with no turn lights regular headlights work but not my turn signals ughhhhhghh!!! Not knowing how fast Im going an how much gas I had no AC & windows didn't roll down. You think I should just try this anyway. Nothing to loose I guess do these seem like typical issues that relate to this.. I'll follow up with a post afterwards thanks again. CRA.
Chris Alcala try to clean it. Yes it could make a difference. Nothing to lose. Change battery as well if you noticed that remote isn't as responsive. Cheers and good luck.
Straws The Plk if you are getting esp malfunction and the car won't start, with ignition on, try to turn steering wheel left and right a little and see of that works.
Peter Zafra I just tried that again and got no good results. They key was giving me problems to even unlock the car for a while now so Im guessing maybe it's time that it gave out. I'll just get a new key and have it reprogrammed
Straws The Plk did that ever work for you. I’m asking because I have the same issue with my car. I can get all the way to turn the ignition on but the car won’t start
I have 02 ML 320 start error code , changed burned body control module due to roofleek driped right above the emergency brake on it !!! I bought on ebay same part # A1635457332 and took it to dealer ,payed $184 for programing BCM and still not starting I gave up to pay other $200 to program key or deal with steelership ....anybody has solution below $500 ? Now thinking to buy ECU ,Bcm,key ,tubler and sender of ebay .....did anybody do it ??..... would I be ok without reprograming in steelership tro start the car if all of it is changed from diffrend car ???? Thanks
Petr Drbal I hope you find a solution. This is far beyond whay I've worked on so far. It sounds like an electrical short. Please share once you solve the issue. Cheers
Thanks ,I do have creed 123 scaner and it says P2071-008 (start error-DAS check messages in control module EZS P1999 ) P2071-064 and I think the cluster display was saying "start error" before reflashing BCM and now it sais "safe error" and back to the all part ebay set swap ...does it have to be same part # or it has to be exact same year and model ..meanig if mine is 02 ML 320 ..... 01 03 ML350 would not work........ by the way Radio is gone (did not metined it and if I disconect battery and then turn the key it turns over the starter only one time for 1 second only.....second try nothing ) ...disconect battery again turns over for 1 second and then nothing ....like a fuel pump relay on other cars ....bat that is not it ....I checked it ...Thank you ...
U just don't know what u did for me
After 4 hours trying to figured out why my car wouldn't start
Thanks so much bruh
GOD BLESS
Just seeing this now. Glad it helped. God is good.
Thanks Peter! Long day today for me. Was told the starter and start relay needed to be replaced, which was why all the dash was working , but got nothing when I tried to start it. Yes my starter seemed to be going and looked terrible when the mechanic took it out. So I replaced it. Also replaced the starter relay which showed signs of burning/wear. The car started once and quit on me again. I got the ESP malfunction message and right after that saw this video. Cleaned the key, new batteries, car started right up. I was forced to do some preventative maintenance and then blessed to see your video. It’s been a good day. Thanks again.
Awesome!!! Thank you for watching.!!!
Thanks so much Peter for your clear repeatedly explanation. Your video helps me to solve the key fob locked problem. I have Mercedes ML500 2006 so as you know I lost one spare key, the existing one having the case kind of cracking at the LOCK and UNLOCK area. Similar to you I bought $5 case (after market made) and replaced it. It works fine for 2 years and I recently found ABS/EPS malfunction message and LOCK button doesn't work anymore. I have to make sure nothing valuable left in my car when I left it in the company parking lot... it happend for few weeks and I worry about something I might be left in my car. So tonight I started searching youtube for LOCK issue in the remote control, which I thought I have to spend 3-400 bucks to fix this issue. Lucky me to see your video, Gosh, and lucky that I save the old original case so I replace it back, the LOCK button works fine. at 12:30AM, I'm glad that fix my lock button so I started the car and run few miles with the hope that it should also help for "ABS/EPS, malfunction message" but it doesn't help. If you have any idea, please share with us.
Thanks so much for your time to make this video, fantastic.
Tony
Thanks for the video. The camera showing the infrared is a great way to see that the remote is working somewhat, sans the generic case. I also seam to have an issue with the copper battery terminals on the pc board wearing out.
This video saved me as I had the same symptoms, but this was not my problem. When I opened up my key fob and pulled out my circuit board, I noticed a copper rectangular piece dangling and one wire was broke off. I later found, one side was for the door locks which still worked cause that was the side attached, the side that was broken off recognizes the ignition. On a hunch because it would require such a small solder, I called my local jeweler and asked if he could repair it, $15 and 5 minutes later it was fixed and my 2009 ML350 started right up. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction.
Awesome. This is great news. Cheers
so the rectangle piece is vital to starting the car? mine is dangling as well. I can definitely use your help on this.
I could not get the circuit board out, but cleaned with a cue tip and bam! the car starts now! Thanks!! I was getting those ESP malfunctions while driving too before the key stopped working altogether.
JT awesome!!!!!
Just saved me $5.00 and a lot of heart-ache! Thanks.
The problem with all modern motor dealers, is mostly, they just replace items they think are the likely cause and if they're not, it's just tough luck for the customer!
Cheers
@@PeterZafra This might help everyone.
ruclips.net/video/4OYcSYtIcBY/видео.html
Wow i couldnt start my car i was about to need a tow and god know what else i watch ur vid and sure enough a ball of lint was at the tip of fob cleaned it and started right up. Thanks on the big save there much appreciated!!
Glad i was able to help. Thank you for the view and sub
Cheers
OMG!!!! THIS JUST SAVED ME!!! I went to get it cleaned out and there was a piece of fuzz right there in front of the sensor!! :-D OMG I'm so happy right now!! thank you so much!! :-D
Cody Marchand thank you for watching. Glad it helped. Cheers!
@@PeterZafra ed's ssd's db
Thank you peter for making this wonderful video. I found exact problems as you've described with my S500 key. You've saved me so much time and headache. Best!
Glad it helped. Thanks for the sub and the like. Cheers
That didn't work for me
I know im randomly asking but does anybody know a way to get back into an Instagram account??
I stupidly forgot the account password. I love any tips you can offer me!
@Dominik Tristian Instablaster :)
@Kristopher Lennon Thanks for your reply. I found the site through google and Im trying it out now.
Seems to take a while so I will reply here later with my results.
Peter you are a life saver,I cleaned my key fob and it started my car,but it won't open and lock still
Try changing the batteries as well.
My car will not lock or but will unlock with the FOB
Did u guys figur out what the cause was?
My car wont lock/unlock...
@@explorinlearnindoing5462 does your car lock and unlock from inside the car? If so, key fob will need reprogramming. If not, check fuse for door locks
@@PeterZafra The problem has been solved, by itself. I think it was of washing the car that tje fusebox in the back may have become wet, via the sunroof or rearlights...
Here is what fixed the "key that won't turn" in my case. 2001 E320, same fob as Peter's in the video. Learning ^from Peter^ that there is a LIGHT of some kind that has to shine up INTO the key, I thought maybe (A) the little light down in there is burned out or (B) the switch that turns that light on is bad. What I did was, I stuck a dry Q-tip down into the key slot and briskly poked it in and out about 40 times. Eventually on one of these pokes, I heard the steering lock mechanism engage, so I tried the key. It worked. Tried it several more times and it was hit & miss, but at least now I feel that if it sticks again I can do the Q-tip trick and hopefully not get stranded somewhere! Good luck and thanks Peter for the video! It was definitely a step in my process, to clean the fob ("key") but ultimately it turned out to be something down inside the ignition reading slot ("keyhole"). Perhaps there is some way to clean the insides of the ignition reading system down in there but for now I'm keeping a few Q-tips on board! Thanks Peter!
Peter, great job putting this video together, it definitely help me! Much appreciated!
Cheers
I can't thank you enough. I took the key apart and cleaned it out and my car starts the first time every time.
Tammy Allison awesome!!!!
I know I might get in trouble for releasing this info. But what the heck. Yes some times it can be a dirty lens on the key, such as lint. Or dirt on the IR portion on the EIS electronic ignition switch itself. And if that's the case clean as the video describes. But 99 percent of the time it's the ESL module's drive motor located inside a metal box mounted to the steering column. Inside that small motor it has brushes that burn up over time. And just before total failure it will work intermittently. Ive been repairing Mercedes Ben's vehicles for years. " AND HERE IS THE TRUTH" We replace both the ESL and the EIS and sometimes even the keys all together. With new virgin units. After installation they must be re-flashed with the MB'S star tool. That's standard procedure. This is the way Mercedes wants the repair done period. But here's to secret. There are plenty of videos showing how DIY'S can open the ESL and just replace the small brushed motor. If you Repair it with only the motor, the car "DOSE NOT NEED TO BE RE-FLASHED". If your Mechanical skills are 8 out of 10 and have the basic tools such as a metric sockets and Torx's drives, and about 2 hours, than your good to go. You will save your self not only a tow to the Mercedes dealer. But on the average of about 1600 US dollars for the repairs. Just look on either Ebay or Amazon. And type, "Mercedes Ben ESL motor" The motors cost about 15.00 US dollars. Good luck from your friendly Mercedes tech.
dan rieco
Your Fired! Wait Until you walk into Work tomorrow .
I have a 2002 clk430 and I have lost the key what is the cheapest and easiest way to solve a lost key? I still have my valet keybut not the infrared fob . If you can give me any info please email me at mcietimothy@gmail.com, any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
My key fob turns on my car my only problem is it won't come out please help !
@@jayhernandez8160
If its stuck in the ignition. The car still thinks it's not in park if it's an automatic.
@@shifty2755 How do I fix it ? Yes it is stuck in the ignition.
I have a 1999 C230 Kompressor, W202. The tip start worked intermittently, sometimes requiring several tries to start the car. I tried a number of things including new relay, new starter and solenoid, new fuse box, new battery and removing the key assembly to have it checked over with the keys. All to no avail. Finally a light dawned and I realized that it is an infrared key. I cleaned the tip of the key with glass cleaner and I wiped the inside of the ignition latch with q-tips. Problem resolved. Hope this helps.
Tee Bee what is the ignition latch?
Oh I hope I pressed the right key....definitely thumbs up. Information helped me tremendously. Thank you very much
Cheers!!!!!
Thank you for the advice. It was useful to know about in more detail the inner components of the key fob. Both my key fobs stopped working recently. The main one had multiple cracks in the plastic (like yours) but the spare key looked in good condition. I have a year 2000, E240. I changed the batteries but still no luck. I called the recovery service and they suggested it was the ignition reader and suggested that they tow me to garage. I declined. A mechanic friend brought a diagnostic machine which gave 'equivocal results' and suggested the same until he noticed the red lights did not light up on the key fobs when pressed. He tapped each one gently with a screw driver and one started to work! Unfortunately within a week, this fob failed again and the trick with the gentle tapping did not work. I have recently ordered a new key from Mercedes. However, this evening I saw your video. Unfortunately I could not remove the circuit boards to clean the keys (and I was a little afraid to damage the circuit board) but swapped the part that holds the batteries between keys and one (the old cracked one) started to work again (red light came on). Your video was very helpful and re energised me to have a go myself! I will keep the new key as a spare when it arrives but knowing the key itself was the problem rather than more expensive components has saved me a lot of money. Thank you.
Richard Wakefield cheers!!! I'm glad to have helped
Hey Peter
Big huge thanks to you and your info
Exactly what u have said
I found a len inside my keys
Really thank so much
And my car now works just perfectly
Today is sep-14-2018
Awesome. Thank you for watching
ESP malfunction from THIS?!! Awesome I’m glad I’ve ordered a new key.
Sweet. Thank you for watching. Cheers
did the 2nd key fix your issue?
Thank you very much for this video your have helped me a lot today
Cheers and blessings
Great video! One way to get out of the ESP jam is to turn the key to second ignition. Then turn the steering wheel max left and max right. Then start the car and it will start up. Sometimes it's not even necessary to turn the steering wheel to max, just turning it a little bit to the left and a little bit to the right will do the trick. Cheers!
SkipArtPictures thank you. One thing I do before I turn off the car is turn off the esp. It seems to have been working for me as well. Cheers.
Nice! I like that that idea :)
After sitting for 45 mins i saw this message n video and this trick worked....bam just lil rt turn. Lil lt turn n started...THANK YOU .. Gonna clean fob today
We have a Mercedes Benz C320 and it's locked!After we watched this video we were following it and perhaps either the battery needs to be change because there's no light sensor on the key.Please advice us what to do---------From Washington State.
With the batteries in the keyfob, turn on your phone camera and press the button of the remote against the camera. You should see flickering. Only the phone camera can see the light. Not your eyes. Try that first. If you don't see it through the camera phone, then it needs new batteries
Chingon.thanks I did learn something important taday,keep it up
Hello I have a 2004 kompressor coupe I can’t start it , it won’t turn in the car now can I try this instead of my paying $300 for a new key fob
I have a 2001 C240 when I turn off the engine the dash screen shows 1 malfunction do you think is my remote o something else and thanks for the video is very helpful
Are you able to check which malfunction is showing up?
@@PeterZafra I did whit the scanner it nothing showed up
The infrared part isn't what starts the car it only locks & unlocks doors & windows! Radio frequency is what unlocks steering, transmission & starts the car. So it's possible for the key fob to work to unlock the doors without unlocking ignition & starting the car.
Where can i send 2006 SLK280 new key fob to be programmed?
Dealership
Hi Peter. A great video. Thank you! I have a 2003 S500. My key fob will not lock the car. the other buttons work. Can this be fixed?
Mario Laraia have you changed the batteries? If so, you.might have damaged buttons.
Also there is a fuse that may need to be changed.
Michael Williams.
I had the same problem with mine. Didnt lock or unlock it but worked with starting the vehicle. I heard the antenna is the problem and of course to change the antenna is a painful process. I had the second key fob which was brand new and still didnt work with lock/unlock feature.
@@8marky8mark8 Did you ever figure out what the problem was? I have an '06 SLK55 AMG with the same issue (Both Key Fobs)
As far as I can tell my key works fine but I saw on your video that you can see the IR light when you press on a button but I can't on mine. Which may be the problem when I press the open button and hold it for 5 sec or so the windows open including the sunroof without starting the car but only sometimes.
You can only see the IR light when infront of a camera. Our naked eye cannot capture that. Double check while you have your phone camera on. I'm sure you'll see it then. Cheers
@@PeterZafra is it possible to demonstrate because I turned on my iPhone camera and I still don't see it
Sumboby help me plese
@@pedrobaez8993 point the camera at the remote while pressing the button.
@@PeterZafra call me man please 312 7340634
Great video man! Never thought of this and came across a lot of built up dirt and dust, key don connects right when I put it in the ignition now!! Thank you!
I'm glad it worked. Thanks for watching and subbing. Cheers!!!!
Can someone please tell me the battery information so I can order the replacement batteries on Amazon? Thank you so much.
2x CR2025 batteries
ESP inoperative message. But no warning symbols on dash. Car starts and everything thing working. So is it possible only my remote need battery’s and or cleaning or new Key fob? I’m going to start with the minimum cost first of course.
Definitely try battery first. Check fuses. For ESP inoperative, I've personally not dealt with that yet. Join some MBZ forums as well as more people may have dealt with your exact scenario and car. Do Check battery and fuses first. If remote starts and unlocks car, that might not be the issue but Check for lints inside remote as well. Cheers
The remote flash the light but don't open the door, ,,can u help me please, 2003 benz
It "Worked" for me!!! Thanks
Cheers
thank u petter great video and tutorial god bless ur fam and u
Thank you.
Hi Peter. My Mercedes key fob does not lock the car (ML350) from outside, but it does open it when locked manually from inside. Even the physical key does not lock manually. Would you be able to help diagnose the issue. Thanks in advance.
Unfortunately I cannot diagnose that issue. Have you tried changing the batteries? Make sure to clean the fob as much as possible. That could help you. Hope you get it solved. Cheers.
@@PeterZafra Thanks Peter. I changed the battery without success. I noticed that when i press the lock button, the red light is not blinking. I'll try to clean the fob as recommended. Tx.
I have a 2004 c240. My car will start, but the fob won't lock and unlock the doors and trunk. The battery is good. Any tips?
Check fuses for locks. If not blown, you might need to bring in for them to reprogram car.
@@PeterZafra thanks
Hello, I have a slk 200 r171 2004 and the remote control stops to open and close the doors. It changes the batteries but it still does not work, infrerojos sends I saw it with the camera of the telephone. I think the command is deprogrammed. How could I program it? Is there a way to put the key in and press the buttons, or do I have to take it to the official service. a greeting
Check my other video regarding fuse being blown which prevents doors to unlock and start car as well
ruclips.net/video/VwgNQ_Xrh-8/видео.html
on my key fob for a 2008 clk 350 the red light flashes but the white infrared litedoes not. please tell me what that means or a solution to fix thanxvalare
You can only see the infrared flash confront of a camera. Cannot see it with only your eyes. Put it infront of your cell phone camera
i havent had problems with cheap fob cover but im gonna change it back because this scared me
This was my experience. You may have one that's better than the aftermarket i got. Cheers
Can you please help,my car key was dumped in water and it's not working, is there any way I can fix it??
Take it apart and dry it first. Remove the batteries. It's a hit or miss. Hopefully it wasn't damaged. Dry, reinstall batteries. Fresh ones if you can. Then see if it works.
@@PeterZafra okay thanks a lot
I have the problem when I put key fob in ignition, it won't turn. I'll have to take the key in and out a few times to eventually turn and start BUT the annoying part is the panic button. Itll go off at times trying to start my vehicle. How can I solve this?
Try cleaning the key fob first. This was my issue as well. Sometimes lint gets in the fob and blocks the sensor and prevents communication between car and remote. Let me know if it works. Cheers
@@PeterZafra thank you! I will!
Thank you.Your advice helps me.
Nune Muradyan I'm glad it helped. Thank you for watching and subbing. Cheers
Can I start it even tho the Batterie is dead ? Will the Main car batterie start it up without the phob batterie?
Not that I know of. Key fob is needed to communicate to the car.
does the key turn at all if you have this problem, and does the steering lock engage/disengage when you pull the key in/out?
Sometimes the key turns, sometimes it doesn't. It all depends on what the key fob is communicating with the car. It's best to clean it out and try.
I have a 2005 S500. When I got the car it had just one 2025 battery in the fob. Even had the fob replaced. Changed the battery and it only had one battery inside. My fob looks exactly like the one in the video. So all these years I am supposed to have 2 batts inside. Doesn't look like it will fit 2 batts inside mine.
If you have the chrome key, I think that one only takes 1. If you have the same as mine, then it takes 2. Hope that helps.
Welldone Peter great job.
Thank you. Cheers
Just purchased a used 2001 MBZ e320, and began having electrical issues. The previous owner never changed the button batteries in the Key FOB remote. The signal is just not strong enough so sometimes it does not open or close the doors. In addition, the previous owner, never checked the car battery or replaced it. She owned it for four years before I bought it from her. So I immediately began having ESP, SRS, ASB, etc. you name it. So now I have a car without any power, thankfully I left the rear window open so that I can get into the car, but when I use the Key FOB remote or try to start the car, nothing happens. Can't even turn the key in the ignition. We tested the car battery and there was ZERO power. The meter showed nothing. Hehehe. DEAD AS A BOARD. So now I have to get a new battery, which just happens to be installed under the rear seat, no matter the previous owner never checked it. You have to remove the rear seat to get to the battery. What a design nightmare, if there ever was. You would think the Germans would get something this important installed under the hood where it belongs. I love my e320, but hate it forthe above. !!@@!!
I'm sure they have a reason for all the madness. I hope you figure out your problems. Other than that, mbz' s are great cars. Cheers!!!
If you look under the hood (bonnet) there are extra + and - terminals provided on the W210 at least, so you can charge the battery without accessing it under the seat. They are next to the big fuse box.
She probably had no idea that there's actually two massive batteries in a quality car.
I used 2 c 2025 battery, is ok, I heard u said 1 c 2025 and 1 c2030
Should work as long as it fits.
@@PeterZafra thank you. It's working. But sometimes my key is slow to lock the doors when pressed
Thanks you. It really help me
Cheers
I'd had a problem with my 2007 E 350 and not sure it was the key fob. It would crank kinda non stop and engine wouldn't start. Have you heard of this? One's a while back almost towed it home.
fuel pump get it replaced if you still have it. I had it on my cls500 2006
My key will start the car but it doesn’t lock it or unlock it. I’m not sure what’s going on with it??? I have 2003 Mercedes E500
Make sure the unit is properly programmed. It could lose communication if the battery is replaced or if the car battery falls below voltage. Your year might also have an auxiliary battery. Make sure that is also good.
Peter Zafra how would I do that?
You are correct in that there is a division in the middle of the window. I think the reason this didn't work for you is that it is for an older car. I have a 1999 C230 and the circuit board extends down to the window and creates the division. Further, on my key there is no additional slit to the side.
J Mark Ashe it works but not all the time. It got pretty annoying. Thank you for watching.
I have a 1998 E300D and the key refuses to stay in the Ignition. It always starts fine...but I have to keep track of where the key is when I am driving to shut her down !
Weird !
Good job man!!
Thank you. Cheers.
Nice sharing my friend
Dude you’re great!
Thank you. I try to help. Cheers
see the comment below, the reason I believe it works without the battery is--- there is a coil inside the fob and I believe it generates a voltage to power the IR sensor when is inserted in the key hole and that is what makes it work. The coil is fairly rugged for the frequency it operates at about 433 mhz. The coil that is in there is perhaps to induce from the vehicle a voltage to power the infra red transmitter. But it mentions the the small windows in front of the fob can be dirty with fuzz, make sure you do not scratch the fob lens and the lens on the key hole. Good luck. my vehicle will crank and run without the batter pack. Juan
Can the fob drain the car battery? When I open the trunk, all doors lock up!!! I wonder if FOB has something to do with it.
alibaba66able I don't kn ow what's causing that to happen with your car but the fob would never drain your battery.
Thank you for the fast reply. I am checking the fuses and found two voltages of .7 and .5 mili volt on two fuses from the sound system. This equates to about 1 amp drainage. I removed the fuses and am waiting till tomorrow to see if the battery is drained. Process of trial n error lol. Thanks again.
My 03 Mercedes’ Benz c230 won’t crank/start replaced alternator, starter have a new battery , put in key it turns all the way turns everything on headlights , all lights on dash board , radio , locks and unlocks car but car still won’t crank or start any ideas ?
im having this same problem, 2005 E320. gonna try and clean the fob tomorrow. hope this helps
I have a e500 that was running great then one day it stopped while i was driving all the lights come on still but if i let it sit over night it goes dead I charged battery it started after 30 turns and when i lock my doors with my key fob the car doesn’t start up anymore i would have to play with it for like a hour and it shows esp then reduce engine power for braking
I would take that in or let it dry out for a few days. Seems like water got in somewhere and caused some kind of short. Hope you find it. Cheers
I have the same Benz, key fob light does not flash, I changed the battery also do not lock or unlock
Might need to reset with indi or dealer. These cars are crazy
The key( metal), has gotten rust on it . Is this a problem
See if you can sand down with a very fine sand paper like 1000 grit. It should be fine.
My remote work but doors not get luck or open and have to do manually.
What the problem could be .lights work with remote.
Thanks
AL MOSHENI have you changed the battery on the remote? Or have you changed the battery on the car? Usually, when you change the car battery, there are times when the car locks and other electronics need to get reprogrammed. I'm not 100% sure though. Also make sure to check the fuse for the door locks if there is one.
Thanks dude, the advise to clean out is truly helpful, cheers!
Awesome!!! Cheers
My steering column and ignition locked on my C230 2006 sports
Oh man. I'm not sure how to get around that as I've never gone through that before. Are you able to unlock and lock the door locks?
My car does the same thing I put the key in it and I won’t start the tip of the key is broken I don’t have the red cover on the tip Can that be the problem it was working fine as it was and one day it didn’t work anymore
You might want to get a new key fob case. It doesn't cost that much. Also, when you get an esp malfunction showing on the dash, try to slightly move the steering wheel left and right even if it's just a little then try to start again. Hope it works out for you. Cheers
I think I do it’s all fucked up.
I changed the battery in my key fob and light comes on fine but the car battery itself is dead and the key blade won't turn so i can open the door manually what else can i do?????
If the car battery is dead, you will need to jump the car from the passenger bottom floor panel. That would be your best point of access to jump start the car since the trunk won't open unless you can open the trunk and jump from there.
I got a clk350 06 and yeah i can open the trunk how can i jump it from there?
They key blade works for the trunk just not the driver side door
What is the problem if the red led flashes on the fob when you press the button but the infra red isn’t lighting when I check with a camera?Any help would be much appreciated.
That's a good question. Try changing the batteries and see if it starts working. Does the remote not work on the car? I figure not. If the batteries don't fix the issue, try cleaning out the fob. Sometimes, a big fur lint gets stuck and prevents the infrared from communicating with the car. Hope it helps. Cheers
Same issue with my Benz s500 door won’t open I press the unlock button red light flashes
I have the same problem with my C Class 2002. Ignition works but lock and unlock function doesn’t. Any advice please!
Thanks for the tips.
Thank you. Cheers
hello I need help my Mercedes benz has the fob key not locking doors remotely. what solution?
Have you tried cleaning it? Have you tried changing the batteries? Those would be the first ones to try.
Peter Zafra Have you checked the central locking system?
Thanks a million.
Gr8 info
thanks i need to clean my fob it has a tear on it good looking out
I have a mbz 2005 c230 my fob does not work (buttons), I played around and found that if you take the battery out it will start your car. Thou you can not lock /unlock /trunk will not work. But try the fob without the battery. It works on my c230 without the battery -no lie. Juan
I didnt see any infared light when i pressed the lock unlock button so what does that mean
k sorry for the late reply. The naked eye cannot see the infrared. You need to put your cell phone camera like I did to see it. Cheers
This is very helpful! My FOB problem is not 100% fixed yet but I got a lot of good info from this video. You asked how you can make your videos better? In my opinion, you could have made it much shorter. You tend to repeat yourself quite a bit saying the same things over and over. Hope that helps.
ERNIE DAJOSEPHSON thank you. I tend to repeat so people get it. Lol thanks for watching.
My problem is my fob will work only for 2 hours after it's put in the ignition. I have gotten the ESP message but it never stopped my vehicle. Please assist me! I did change my battery in my vehicle and my fob. I even changed the central locking fuse 8, still after 2 hours I have to use my metal key to enter vehicle.
PLEASE HELP!!
My son just bought a e350
A few days ago
It ran great
Then in the morning he hoes to start the car and it wont kick over , the lights come on and you could hear the it trying to start but it wont kick over
Could it be hes key fob ?.
Any help would be awesom.
Is the engine turning over? Just not starting? It could be the cps sensor.
How do you get the key out when the latch won t release it?
Try to use your finger nails to help. There might be some debris that caused it to get stuck
I am watching at " you Tube " electronic repair man making fortune Fixing " Mercedes " Fob s which I watch he does put on Videos how he was repairing Those Fob s most case problems were are broken or lose " coil " which had been install with out much support and when key fall , large coil come lose from Board " bad Design " which Mercedes have to look at that issue .
I agree. Very expensive but you gotta love them Euros
just bought a 02 c320 key wouldn't turn 2 separate mechanics said it needed a computer well i bought it for 1k with 85k miles in mint condition took the battery's out and then the chip just to find on the board a broken resister the one down next to the IR that's wrapped in copper just laying in the case so hoping I can get another Mercedes Key and just unsoldier and re-soldier the chip to the new board and zoom zoom lol we'll see
Hope it works out. Cheers
Ty
You are very welcome
I appreciate you posting this video im gonna try it first thing tomorrow. My issue was when I got into my car and tried turning my key it pretty much didn't let me took it out and Put it back a couple of times nothing. Cleaned only the outside of key and ignition spot nothing. Than tried kinda pushing it in a little harder an giving it a little jiggle after a couple of tries it made a beep an let me turn the key all the way over to start the car. I was running late for work so just took off little did I know halfway down the street I realized everything on my dash was still off
hp needle "0"
Mph needle "0"
Gas """0"""
THIS IS MY LIFE!!!!
Than I try an roll my Windows down cause its hot as $#&%.. nope.
My radio.... of course that turned on an worked fine. AC nope!#!!!!###! So a 38mile drive to work. Than back with no turn lights regular headlights work but not my turn signals ughhhhhghh!!! Not knowing how fast Im going an how much gas I had no AC & windows didn't roll down. You think I should just try this anyway. Nothing to loose I guess
do these seem like typical issues that relate to this.. I'll follow up with a post afterwards thanks again.
CRA.
Chris Alcala try to clean it. Yes it could make a difference. Nothing to lose. Change battery as well if you noticed that remote isn't as responsive. Cheers and good luck.
What ended up being the problem? My car doing the same exact thing
What if it gets wet ?
Just remove the battery and dry it
Wow
This is entertaining 🤣
My problem with the key will open the door after I use the manual key for the first time of the day
wow. that's all new to me.
Thank youu
Thank you. Cheers
moi j'ai probléme de contacte,démarage
Mercedes B200
année 2010
Jak ti video, nema šta, srami se.
Thankyou
Can you ask Ava to watch my channel! and comment on what kind of videos I can do to make my channel better.
Ok
Go to the swap meet they have one $25.00 to $40.00
Didn't work for me. I have a c230 kompressor 03. At this point I'm just thinking of getting a new key
Straws The Plk if you are getting esp malfunction and the car won't start, with ignition on, try to turn steering wheel left and right a little and see of that works.
Peter Zafra I just tried that again and got no good results. They key was giving me problems to even unlock the car for a while now so Im guessing maybe it's time that it gave out. I'll just get a new key and have it reprogrammed
Straws The Plk did that ever work for you. I’m asking because I have the same issue with my car. I can get all the way to turn the ignition on but the car won’t start
I have 02 ML 320 start error code , changed burned body control module due to roofleek driped right above the emergency brake on it !!! I bought on ebay same part # A1635457332 and took it to dealer ,payed $184 for programing BCM and still not starting I gave up to pay other $200 to program key or deal with steelership ....anybody has solution below $500 ? Now thinking to buy ECU ,Bcm,key ,tubler and sender of ebay .....did anybody do it ??..... would I be ok without reprograming in steelership tro start the car if all of it is changed from diffrend car ???? Thanks
Petr Drbal I hope you find a solution. This is far beyond whay I've worked on so far. It sounds like an electrical short. Please share once you solve the issue. Cheers
Thanks ,I do have creed 123 scaner and it says P2071-008 (start error-DAS check messages in control module EZS P1999 ) P2071-064 and I think the cluster display was saying "start error" before reflashing BCM and now it sais "safe error" and back to the all part ebay set swap ...does it have to be same part # or it has to be exact same year and model ..meanig if mine is 02 ML 320 ..... 01 03 ML350 would not work........ by the way Radio is gone (did not metined it and if I disconect battery and then turn the key it turns over the starter only one time for 1 second only.....second try nothing ) ...disconect battery again turns over for 1 second and then nothing ....like a fuel pump relay on other cars ....bat that is not it ....I checked it ...Thank you ...
👍👍👍🇺🇸
Cheers
That’s a Motorola Generation key fob they are the worst need to get a Generation 3 key
I prefer to buy honda or Toyota
Me too