There are 4 computers involved in the operation of the starter.
The EIS sends signal to the fuel computer & that computer looks to the trans computer & the shifter to make sure they are both in PARK or neutral.

Anti-theft has NOTHING to do with starter operation.

You could go to the power supply relay in the e-box & try jumping the wire that goes to the starter.

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thanks for the reply Doc. how do i jump it ? and is the relay next to the tcm ?

ive also been told that is a good chance the tcm is junk

I think you may be confusing the TCM with the shifter module (based in part on your thread at Benzworld). The TCM is under the hood and is the computer dedicated to managing the transmission (technically the Electronic Transmission Control Module). It's usually pretty rock-solid unless doused with ATF from a failed pilot bushing/spacer/adapter on the transmission, but even then it can often be cleaned (and the socket and harness) and it will work after the codes have been cleared from it.

The shifter module in the console could be sending garbage signals that indicate the car is not in park, and that is all the more likely if liquid has been spilled in the center console (great place for a cupholder, too, eh?).

Good luck.

I find that it just takes time.

__________________
Jim

Not to mention that any of the other modules on the CAN can be bringing the whole CAN down, screwing up the normal flow of info causing the no crank.

Even in the shop that can be a difficult diagnosis for trained techs.

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