Two problems related to ignition module have been reported for the 2009 Mercedes Benz C300. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Drove my 2009 mercedes C300 sport to emissions station for testing. The tech turned off the car and then attempted to restart in order to start/complete emissions testing and the car would not start. The steering wheel was locked. The key would turn but would not start the vehicle. Turning the key resulted in operable interior lights, radio and the locks worked but nothing else. Had the car towed to dealer and, just like other owners, the cause is a "bad" steering lock. Costs upwards of $1000 to fix, possibly double that if the ignition module also needs replacing, which they won't know until they can replace the steering lock first. My car has 122k miles, purchased certified pre owned. I have safety concerns regarding this issue since it seems it could have occurred while I was operating the vehicle.
The electronic ignition system has failed and the vehicle cannot be started. The steering lock is engaged, so the steering wheel cannot be moved. The vehicle was stationary when it occurred but stranded the operator. Diagnosis involves towing to a dealership and then in excess of $1000 repair bill. This is a well documented fault with the eis module however no recall has been issued.