Hi friends. I did a quick look to find an answer to my problem, but couldn’t find a thread that covers my issue. This is an S430 2001. The key won’t turn. It happened before. Fixed by getting a new 12v battery. The battery is 4 months old tested, have 12.8 volts and lot of cranking amps.
I used the car and it took several tries wiggling the key in the ignition until it turned and start the engine. But the last time, started the engine with difficulty, then the radio shut off, the sign of low battery voltage was on, the abs sign was on, the radiator fan started at high speed so I turned the car off.

The key would not turn anymore, the key with new batteries does not activate the central locking system. Tried my second key and no success.

I can connect the computer with the scanning program, but if I am not able to turn the key, the scanner won’t read.

After hurricane Maria here in PR, I didn’t use the car for several weeks, then it was covered on the inside with mold. Also I stored in the trunk a catalyst of an epoxy and got spilled.

My question. Is there a module that controls the anti-theft in the trunk that may have connector issues.

Where should I start? Thank you.

Darrel

Hello. In my last 2 threads, I’ve not receive any answer. Not sure if it was technically complicated or my puertorrican english.

Anyway I found out that the ESL and the key were working. I sent it to a gentleman in Illinois who tested for me at a nominal fee. Tested pin #1 at the small conector to the ESL and #5. #5 is ground (brown color) and it was 0 ohms to chasis. # 1 was 2.7v only.

Followed the wiring diagram and started at the trunk from the battery. Everything was in perfect conditions12.5 volts. Decided to go to connector X/18 at the driver side floor running along the bottom door rim. After removing the covers and rug, area was wet. ConectorX/18 was corroded at the red pin by becoming wet. Had to take the red wires out of the connector sheath. Placed new individual connectors to the red and another wire on another connector, and problem solved.

I hope this can help others. Many mechanics go straight to replace the switch which for me was $840.00 with the smart key without labor. The repair was 50.00 plus both shipping both ways.

Success story.

No problem with your english; it is good. Thank you for reporting the final resolution. It will certainly help someone else on the forum in the future.

Just wish everyone would do this.

Thanks!