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What is causing the starting issue on my Mercedes-Benz A Class?

My 2012 Mercedes-Benz A class is suffering from a glitch with starting, as the ESP/ABS light comes on, unless I go through the starting steps very slowly (pausing for 10 - 15 seconds between each turn of the key). Occasionally it will not start at all unless I turn off the ignition and start again. Sometimes it starts but the ESP/ABS light come on and stays on, then I have to go through the steps again very slowly when it starts normally. I have had this car since new and it has done 35,000 miles. The problem started periodically two or three years ago and is getting more frequent. Any ideas would be very welcome.

Asked on 14 July 2017 by Ursula

Answered by Alan Ross
From what you are describing we would suspect the ignition barrel lock.
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High-quality interior. Strong diesels. Good record for reliability. Option of four-wheel drive.
 

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