W202 C180 no crank no start

[colorlaser137]

Hello people. I found a really good deal on a 1999 C180 sedan locally, but the owner says the car doesnt crank or start because of the key not communicating with the car. He also told me there was previously also a problem with the steering wheel lock but they managed to fix that. What could possibly cause this, and how difficul/expensive would it be to fix it if i do everything myself?

 

[W1ghty]

Hello people. I found a really good deal on a 1999 C180 sedan locally, but the owner says the car doesnt crank or start because of the key not communicating with the car. He also told me there was previously also a problem with the steering wheel lock but they managed to fix that. What could possibly cause this, and how difficul/expensive would it be to fix it if i do everything myself?

Call a recovery service and see if they can start it ?

 

[Stratman]

Assuming you believe the seller in the first place, to replace a set of keys is a few hundred pounds. I have no idea about the steering lock/ignition switch.

As to what could be causing it, in my admittedly cynical view a really good deal + key problem + steering lock problem = stolen.

There are plenty more out there, every nerve ending in my body is telling me to walk away.

 

[ALFAitalia]

Key immobiliser with no communication will not stop the car from starting....but it will cut out after a couple of seconds if the ECU does not recognise (handshake) the key. I think the issue is elsewhere.