Hello,

my Valeo D7ED28 starter failed. I dropped the engine, removed the starter and found out that it has a built in immobilizer inside the solenoid. Unfortunately its very expensive, it costs more then a regular starter with a simple solenoid (!).

So i want to install a starter with a regular solenoid, and run an extra cable to control it with a button, or directly from an ignition key through a relay.

Haynes only provides diagrams for older models with regular starters, i attached these.

Does anybody have a starting diagram for starters with built in immobilizer ? Or maybe already has done such conversion and can share the experience. Thanks.

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I was told at the repair shop that the conversion to a regular starter solenoid controlled by an extra relay would work, except it'll throw a engine code at the dash, so i don't think its worth it.

Another thing i've learned that a starter from 1.9, 2.1 models which was sold to me, would not fit 1.6 engine, because its just too long. I hope the shop will take it back and give my money back

I finally got it fixed. Had to replace only the solenoid, bought a new one for ~50 EURO. It has a built in immobilizer, Valeo 5601 , and is specific for Valeo D7ED28 starters.

The difference between solenoids is described in:
[PDF] RE014 12 - 455747 458165 starter motor mercedes - Valeo

The new solenoid looks exactly the same as in Valeo document, while the old broken solenoid is different. Although they both have the same markings: Valeo 5601.
Of course i haven't tested it prior to installation because it needs to receive a proper signal from car ECM first to program itself to the specific car. After this first start its done, the solenoid can't be reused in any other car. Nor buying a used solenoid would work because it has been already programmed to another car.

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after a few weeks of good running with a repaired starter, its happening again!! its like the starter solenoid dosn't have enough force to even switch the power to the starter, because i can't see any load on a battery while turning the key.

I even replaced a good battery with a new 77Ah, 780CCA thinking its the issue, but no go.

There is a signal voltage coming from engine ECM on violet/white wire to the starter solenoid, so i think its the Valeo solenoid which failed again for some reason.
Here are pics of the electronics i removed from the old solenoid:


Anyway, now my only option is to buy a new starter, but with a regular simple solenoid, and run an extra wire to activate it. Too bad i spent the money on that Valeo solenoid which costs more then a new regular starter.

Does anybody really hasn't run into the same issue ?? i wish at least i could find an electrical diagram specific for this car.

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Just wanted to update on my starter issue.

I installed a new starter, a regular one, without an immobilizer.

I had to run an extra cable from a push-button to the starter, and the factory violet-white wire i left unconnected.

Now the car starts every time without a problem. The difference is that extra added push-button i had to install on the dash, and i actually have to turn the key to the 3rd position first, then push the button and hold it till the engine starts.

The MSM also throws a:
" P1650-1 Actuation of starter - Short-circuit to positive" code although there is no check engine light on the instrument panel.

In conclusion, there is no point on wasting money and buying a new solenoid with a immobilizer because new regular starter with a regular solenoid is cheaper and more reliable.