[BMAN]

I have a 1997 E320 with two keys. Just the other day, I could not lock the doors with either key. Figuring it was the batteries, I changed them in both and yet it still will not lock. I can start the engine and drive no problem, but I cannot lock the car!

I have tried turning the key one click (not turning the engine on) then removing the key and that did not work. Not sure how to resynch, but was hoping to avoid removing the battery terminal. Any ideas???

Thanks in advance.

Oh, and if you happen to see my car, please don't steal anything since my doors will be unlocked!!!

 

[Musikmann]

If yours is similar to mine it sounds like it might have something to do with the PSE system (the vacuum pump and lines).

 

[iluvjesus]

can you lock the car with the central lock button inside the car?

can you lock it with the flat / metal key?

 

[Musikmann]

Good suggestion iluvjesus, that will rule in/out what I suggested and if ruled out, point toward the keys. What I don't understand is why both keys went kaput at the same time.

 

[DrewW210]

I have a 1997 E320 with two keys. Just the other day, I could not lock the doors with either key. Figuring it was the batteries, I changed them in both and yet it still will not lock. I can start the engine and drive no problem, but I cannot lock the car!

I have tried turning the key one click (not turning the engine on) then removing the key and that did not work. Not sure how to resynch, but was hoping to avoid removing the battery terminal. Any ideas???

Thanks in advance.

Oh, and if you happen to see my car, please don't steal anything since my doors will be unlocked!!!

Hi Bman

I have the exact same problem in my 1997 E320. Same story, locked one minute and didn't the next, but I can start the car and drive around fine. I have tried the re sync technique, the removal of the negative battery terminal, changing the batteries in the remote...everything that I can that is a DIY fix. Needless to say, I still crawl through the back seat and lock the car with the button on the dash. I have been told that the key needs to be replaced but I IR tested to remote and it is working fine (so its not the key) At least you will be able to lock the car (just be careful not to lock your key in the car. Are you getting any flashing lights on the mirror?

Let me know if you find a fix because I could really use some more ideas. I would really like to be able to fix the problem myself as I have always worked on my own cars. I'm in the process of getting a code reader hooked up to hopefully produce an error code. I have access to an OBD diagnostic machine similar to what Mercedes have...once I get the error code I will be posting what the problem was and possibly how to fix it. Fingers crossed....I'll keep you informed.

Kind Regards

Drew

 

[BMAN]

I will double check those things. The vacuum still works I believe. I seem to remember that prior to this, I was able to insert the key into the passenger or trunk lock, and turn it to arm/lock the car, but that does not work anymore.

There is no flashing lights on in the mirror. I haven't done the whole re-synch thing yet.

If you are climbing out the back seat after arming it, won't the alarm go off?

 

[iluvjesus]

Why do you think the vacuum works? I agree with Musikmann, sounds like the vacuum problem. But I don't know how to DIY for changing/servicing the vacuum. Anyone?

 

[Musikmann]

I think I read that the pump is under the backseat beside the battery. Maybe you can run 12v directly to it and see if it runs that way.

 

[Musikmann]

See this thread:

http://www.benzworld.org/forums/w210-e-class/1424685-diy-fix-your-pse-vacuum-compressor.html

 

[Bodya]

I think that he should first try and re-sync the system and see if that helps before doing anything else

 

[Musikmann]

I think that he should first try and re-sync the system and see if that helps before doing anything else

Good idea; it certainly can't hurt anything. Procedure for that can be found in the W210 DIY Stickys at the top of the page.

 

[TNTRower]

Do the "Ctrl-Alt-Del" on the car first.

Undo the negative battery cable in the footwell of the rear passenger seat (a small plastic cover is covering it. The cover just pops off with some gentle leverage).

Unhook the cable. Walk around to the driver's side. Pump the brake a few times. Reattach the cable. Go through sync procedure.

I have a gremlin in the system and I can not locate it. The PSE seems to be fine. I think it may be the CAN BUS or something equally as expensive.

My symptoms are the same but I also lose Driver side window and seat adjustment capability.

 

[Musikmann]

...The PSE seems to be fine...

There is another recent thread going where a member wants to troubleshoot his PSE. Do you know how to do that?

 

[iluvjesus]

There is another recent thread going where a member wants to troubleshoot his PSE. Do you know how to do that?

I thought you have already posted the link earlier, it is very helpful, thanks

 

[Musikmann]

I thought you have already posted the link earlier, it is very helpful, thanks

Yes I did, but on another thread I think. You're welcome.

 

[BMAN]

Turns out the pump is NOT working. I saw the thread earlier about how to replace it, but somehow I think I will screw it up more. How much do you think this will run at an independent service mechanic?