1. Spend $90 and get a new OVP.
2. Install it.
3. Problem fixed.

I'm 99% sure that the lock/unlock issue is pure coincidence. Does it always start the first crank after doing that?

Local MB Dealer wanted to replace the crank sensor, EA and wiring harness to the tune of about 3k. I changed the OVP and problem was cured.

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