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Attempted many solutions, inspected all fuses, and cleaned the wiring and connections for the ECU and ESP. Replaced another ESP ECU, still the issue persists.
A friend used a Snap-on Scanner to examine the vehicle and reported a lack of communication with the ABS and ESP systems.
Based on my analysis of many discussions, it seems that the vehicle will 'lock out' if the ABS is defective, and the ESP/EGS may fail to register on the system or display errors.


The vehicle is inoperable and will not start until the ESP ECU is disconnected; yet, it remains unable to shift out of park or engage any other gear.

Could the ABS be the source of these issues? Any insights?
Will STAR provide insight into the current situation? If such is the case, it would need towing to the garage to place it on the STAR, since it is immobilized in Park.

If this is a 722.6 gearbox, there is a manual release. In my 2006 C-Class, remove the cup/coin holder, insert a long screwdriver into the visible hole (or use the tool provided with the vehicle), push it in, then maneuver the shift lever until it shifts into N.


At least that is indicated in the owner's handbook. There may be a comparable arrangement in your case.

Indeed, I believe it may also apply to my situation, thus facilitating my access to a tow truck (or even a junk truck).
I have perhaps made some progress with it. I suspect that an ABS malfunction is therefore inhibiting the ESP and start authorization.


Am I correct in assuming that the ABS will impact the ESP module, since a lack of readings may prevent the vehicle from granting driving authorization?
It may be prudent for me to examine the ABS rings and connections as a first step.

I get many warning notifications when my battery is critically low.

Previously, when I had an ABS failure with absent speed values, the vehicle would still start and operate. It seems to me that this situation is more severe, akin to a short circuit in the loom.

What leads you to believe it is ABS?

Regarding ABS, I am essentially speculating and anticipating based on my review of many threads, in addition to the numerous ones I have previously examined.
I believed the ABS may disable the ignition; but, as you said, that is likely not the case. I will examine the sensors and perhaps clean them in the process.


I considered removing the K40 front fuse unit for inspection. I recognize that there is a considerable amount of wire and connections that may potentially be affected by moisture or damage.

What is the procedure for inspecting the loom for a short circuit?

Thank you for your assistance.

I would begin by inspecting the vehicle for electrical power at the ECU connections and any indications of damage.

I would further attempt to scan the vehicle while it is in operation (disconnect to begin and then reconnect). My W211 indicates a lack of contact with the ABS unless the engine is operational.

Indeed, you may be correct. I will examine the passenger footwell, where I believe the CAN C connection is situated. I previously accessed the footwell to replace the suspension control module for a different problem and am concerned that the wires or connectors may have been damaged.

It seems that there may be a disconnection causing the vehicle to deny driving authorization or fail to start.

Examined the CAN connections and wiring inside the passenger wire loom, disconnected the connectors, and performed contact cleaning without success.
Stumped, its going into a garage to be diagnosed in a few days.
The vehicle will start if I disconnect the ESP fuse or connection, but it will not engage in gear. I attempted to replace the ESP ECU with another, but the issue persists.

Could the 13-pin transmission connection result in a no-start or no-crank condition?

I have received a diagnosis but am uncertain of its implications. Could anybody provide assistance or suggest potential next steps?