Mercedes Benz C300 C250 W204 No Crank No Start - Take Key From Ignition Message ESL Repair

On my 2012 c250 sport it says take key from ignition it just started doing that again and idk if its my starter or my esl because there is times where it unlocks and turns on and times where it stays locked forever but i put the key in and hear little ticks coming from dash

So I have an intermittent start, no codes, only way to start it is trying 100 times and praying, or putting a paper clip in as the starter relay, and leaving it cranked. It starts every time doing this, but puts it in limp mode. Once it’s running I turn it off and back on, and limp mode goes away. Not a starter or battery issue, even with a new relay the problem persists!

never getting a Mercedes again worseeee cars everrrrr

It’s the steering lock, 1820.00 Mercedes San Diego

I fucking hate this car

Mine does this and I can hear a clicking sound after. Like real small clicks coming from the dash

Who is doing at this wth

Hi, I have a 2012 C300 and I’m having this issue. I removed the ESL and replaced the motor and still no luck. Car powers up (dash screen, radio) but no instrument cluster lights or anything. The car locks and unlocks with key fob.
Any suggestions? Thanks in advance

i turned my car on then, when i tried it again it completely died outta nowhere

My car is having similar issues but I still hear the ESL unlock and lock. But the car doesn’t crank. Sometimes if I wait long enough in the 2 position it works to start the car. Do you think it’s the ESL?