Modern vehicles rely on advanced Electronic Steering Locks (ESL) and Electronic Locking Vehicle (ELV) systems to ensure security and prevent theft. While these systems protect your car, they can sometimes prevent your vehicle from starting—even if your key is 100% functional.
At Mr. Ignition, we specialise in diagnosing, supplying, and programming new ESL/ELV modules and emulators for all major car brands, including Mercedes-Benz (FBS3), BMW, Mini, Nissan, Ford, Renault, Peugeot, Citroen, Opel, Hyundai, Kia, Jeep, Fiat, and Dacia.
Why Cars Fail to Start Despite a Working Key
A common reason your car won’t start is a faulty ESL or ELV module. These steering lock systems communicate with your vehicle’s immobiliser and key. If the lock fails or loses communication, the car thinks the key is invalid—even when it isn’t.
Common signs of a faulty ESL/ELV include:
- Engine won’t start
- Steering wheel remains locked
- Dashboard warnings like “Steering Lock Fault” or “Immobiliser Active”
- Intermittent or complete no-start conditions
Common Causes of ESL & ELV Failures
ESL and ELV failures can occur due to:
- Mechanical wear in the steering column lock
- Electrical faults in the module
- CAN bus communication issues
- Water or moisture damage
- Programming conflicts after module or key replacement
Understanding the cause is essential to avoid repeated failures or costly dealer replacements.
Typical Fault Codes
Fault codes can help identify a steering lock problem:
- B2780 / B2781 – Steering Lock Control or Position Fault
- U1000 / U0100 – CAN Communication Fault
- Immobiliser Active / Steering Lock Fault warnings
If your vehicle displays these codes, it’s likely that the ESL/ELV is preventing engine start.
How Mr. Ignition Can Solve Steering Lock Issues
We provide full ESL/ELV solutions, including:
- New ESL/ELV modules – OEM and high-quality compatible parts
- Steering lock emulators – bypass faulty locks where applicable
- Professional programming and diagnostics – ensuring your vehicle starts reliably
- Mobile service – we come to you, fast
- 6-month warranty on parts and labour
Our technicians handle all major brands and models, including advanced Mercedes FBS3 ESL modules, ensuring a professional and reliable service.
Vehicles We Cover
We have extensive experience with:
- Nissan: Micra, Kicks, Juke, Murano, Maxima, Patrol, Altima, 370Z, GT-R
- Ford: Fiesta, B-MAX, EcoSport, Focus, C-Max, Kuga, Mondeo, S-Max, Galaxy
- BMW / Mini: 3 Series, 5 Series, X Series, Mini Cooper R55/R56
- Renault: Clio, Clio 5, Captur, Megane, Fluence, Scenic, Latitude
- Peugeot & Citroen: 508, 3008, Rifter, C3-XR, C4, DS Series
- Opel / Vauxhall: Astra K, Corsa, Grandland
- Hyundai / Kia: Tucson, Sonata, Staria, Sportage, Sorento, Carnival
- Jeep / Fiat: Cherokee, Renegade, Fiat 500, Fiat Egea
- Dacia: Logan 3, Duster 2
- Mercedes-Benz: All FBS3 ESL/EIS modules
We also maintain brand-specific service pages where you can check part numbers, fault codes, and model compatibility.
Why Choose Mr. Ignition
- Fast, mobile service across Surrey, West Sussex, South London, and surrounding areas
- Same-day service possible
- Professional diagnostics and programming
- Cost-effective solutions compared to dealer replacements
- 6-month warranty on parts and labour
Whether your car is a Nissan, Ford, BMW, Mini, Renault, Mercedes, or any other major manufacturer, we provide reliable ESL/ELV solutions to get your vehicle back on the road quickly.
Get Your Car Starting Again
If your vehicle won’t start because of a faulty steering lock, don’t wait for expensive dealer replacements. Mr. Ignition supplies and programs new ESL/ELV modules and emulators to restore your car’s starting functionality.
Contact Mr. Ignition today:
- Phone / WhatsApp: 07921 365247
- Website: www.mrignition.co.uk