BENZTECH MODULES

The Electronic Steering Lock (ESL) is a security feature that prevents the steering wheel from turning without a matching set of DAS (Drive Authorization System) components. The EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch), ESL (Electronic Steering Lock), and key are the three components that must share the same FBS data (security data). Programming is necessary when replacing the ESL with an emulator or another factory ESL.

When you insert your key into the Electronic Ignition Switch (EIS) a working ESL will unlock, as a result the steering wheel can be turned. When the key is removed from the EIS, the ESL should lock the steering wheel. If either one of these scenarios is not happening, it’s very likely the ESL has failed. 

With the driver door open, insert the key into the ignition switch. Insert your key into the EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch). Did you hear a “ding” sound? If yes, your key has been recognized by the EIS. Is there a message on the instrument cluster that reads “Take key from ignition.” Or “Remove key from ignition.” This is further confirmation that your EIS and key are working. Next, turn the key two full turns to ignition position two. At this point, with a working ESL, you should see yellow and red lights light up in the cluster. With a failed ESL, these red and yellow lights will not be present. Now try your windows, do they roll up or down? If not, this is further confirmation that your ESL has failed. If the symptoms you’re experiencing match the above listed symptoms, there is a 99% chance your ESL has failed.

 Programming of the Electronic Steering Lock requires specialized programming tools. If you have the tools and skill set  required to program an ESL or ESL emulator then it can be done.

Steering lock programming is not part of routine maintenance. Programming is performed when replacing the steering lock with an ESL emulator or another factory steering lock.

Programming the electronic steering lock requires physical access to the vehicle and is typically performed at a service center. Remote options may be limited, we recommended consulting with our experts for details.

A ESL emulator is a small electronic device that literally emulates the circuit board of the factory ESL. It gives the same "drive authorization" that the factory ESL gives. Put plainly, it gives an electronic signal to the Ignition Switch that all systems are go. The driver can now start the car. The only difference is that the ESL emulator does not have a mechanical lock. It's this omission of the mechanical lock that makes the emulator so much more reliable than the factory ESL. When your factory lock fails, the emulator is a long term, reliable solution. It gives the driver peace of mind. You don't have to worry about the all too common scenario of being left stranded by the inevitable failure of the factory ESL.

Once the circuit board of your ESL fails, it cannot be repaired. You must either replace it with another factory ESL that will certainly fail again within 12-18 months. Or replace it with the reliable ESL emulator.