w210 key don't do nothing

[Phillytwotank]

hey y'all,

I know there has been some discussion ono this topic in the past but i'm wanting to re hash it for any fresh perspectives that might be out there.

Car is a '98 e300d. problem is that it is basically immobilized due to the key not doing anything when it is inserted into the ignition.

Does anyone have any ideas on what needs to be done to get this sorted out?

Thanks

[engatwork]

If it won't turn then I would suspect you have a dead battery.

[Phillytwotank]

To slightly complicate things, I’m working on this one by proxy. I’m pretty sure I already ask if they had made sure the battery is charged but I’ll double check with my guy.

[Phillytwotank]

Confirmed with my guy… car battery is 100%

[Sugar Bear]

Not an expert to that model but here goes...a ton of questions.

Tried a different key?

Does the key have a battery that can be replaced in the fob?

Door locks work remotely?

When the key is installed does anything happen, sounds, instrument panel lights?

Can the key be turned?

Was everything working and then it wasn't, symptoms leading up?

Any recent repairs or aftermarket stereo equipment etc. added?

Try blocking the wheels, put the emergency brake on then manually release the shifter, put the car in neutral and try starting.

[ykobayashi]

Do a search online. There is a funny problem with the remote fobs on the 210s. It commonly shows up on the E320 gas cars. I cannot remember the details but it’s something like changing the fob battery or changing the car battery with the key in the vicinity if the car reprograms (scrambles) something and the key stops working. It sounded ridiculous when I read it but apparently the fix is towing the car to a dealership and having it reprogrammed.

[Phillytwotank]

Any link to that procedure? I’ve done a good bit of searching, have not heard that yet.

[paul roberts]

First of all, the fob batteries have zero to do with starting the car. It establishes drive authorization via the chip inside. Lock and unlock the car with the blade key assuring that the PSP locks and unlocks the doors. If you don't hear the fob being recognized when put in the ignition switch, It's either a bad fob or a bad ignition switch. Have someone scan the EIS to see if it's functioning. It's somewhat of a common issue.

[engatwork]

I have seen that situation happen where the key would not do anything and it required another EIS to fix.

[paul roberts]

Originally Posted by engatwork

I have seen that situation happen where the key would not do anything and it required another EIS to fix.

Yeah. I've seen this mainly on the 210s and 203s. I use to diagnose it then send people to the dealer if it was the EIS since it's a TRP and they won't sell it unless the car and the owner are there. Now, if they have the problem after trying another key, I don't even have them bring the car in. I just tell them to go straight to the dealer.

[engatwork]

Same here, I send them to dealer.

[Phillytwotank]

Thanks everyone, I’m thinking this is an EIS issue.
T looks like there are some rebuilders out there that can refurbish the EIS.
Will probably try to go this direction vs dealership.

[will_t]

I should think replacing the fob battery would solve this. Has this been tried?

[engatwork]

Fob battery has nothing to do with it.