How to Remove & Replace Benz ESL ELV Electronic Steering Lock

This article show a guide on how to remove and replace Benz ESL ELV.When you find your key can not work or steering is locked and you can not start your Benz car,it most likely that the ESL/ELV is damaged.You need to remove it for your vehicle.

 

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What is Benz ELV/ESL?

It is an electronic steering lock which is powered by a motor.

 

How to Remove & Replace Benz ESL ELV?

Preparations:

Make sure that the very first thing you do is install the key in the ignition and that it frees up the electronic steering lock.Then leave the key in even though you are disconnecting the battery.

Note:If the lock is not open when you start you will not be able to remove it from the steering column.

With the steering shaft unlocked leave the key in the ignition and disconnect the ground cable on the battery(red arrow)

You will need to remove the gauge cluster.

You also need to remove the airbag and steering wheel.

Next,remove the steering column switch module (red arrow) and trim surround.Thiss comes off as one unit.

Working below the dash first remove the two bolts by the steering knuckle (red arrows) and then the bolts closer to the dash(yellow arrow).The steering shaft will be free once the bolts are removed so gently lower it while removing the last two bolts.

Disconnect the wiring connection for the lock along the left side of the shaft (red arrow)

I found the easiest way to do this was to reach between the shaft assembly and dash (red arrow) with one hand and the other from below.

This photo illustrates the electronic steering lock off the shaft.The grub bolt (red arrow) will be facing towards the front of the vehicle while it is installed.You need to remove the 13mm nut that holds this grub bolt in place (red arrow)

You will need to do this blind or by feel but it is the only nut back there.

With the nut off you will press the grub bolt into the lock assembly (red arrow),and then lift the locking assembly up and out from the steering column.If the grub bolt will not press in the steering is locked,and you will have to start over making sure the steering is locked,and you will have to start over making sure the steering is free and leave the key in place.Never hook up the battery unless the airbag is reinstall.

You can remove the unit out the opening between the column and dash.

Installation is the reverse of removal.When remounting the steering shaft make sure to seat the forward bolts first (red arrows,bolts not shown) and then the rears.Once the bolts are in place you can torque them to spec.