Help glove box won't open W124 E220 Estate 1994

[Donald]

Can't open the glove box. Don't want to pull on the handle too hard in case it snaps. It's always been a bit sticky but this time it just won't open.

Does anyone have suggestions for getting it open without damaging it ?

If the car documents weren't stuck inside I wouldn't be too bothered but the tax is due for renewal

 

[John Turner]

This happened to mine too. The problem was caused by the lock barrel getting out of synch and locking on closure. The lock mechanism is effective, with a strong hook snagging a clasp which I found very difficult to break into without damaging the facia. My dealer did an excellent drop releasing it, resetting the barrel, and using a hot blower to take the dent out of the plastic facia that I had caused, at an acceptable cost of £34. By then I had spent hours and had very sore fingers, and so was very happy to have the job done. I am still not sure how they did it!
John

 

[jberks]

Not sure of this model, had a similar problem with a BMW. Managed to get in by unscrewing the glovebox hinges from underneath and easing the door away from the bottom. Don't know if this is possible on the Merc though. Chances are that the dealer will know of a way (you won't be the first) so don't be tempted to get too agressive with it before you check that route out.

 

[Donald]

Update:
Managed to open the glovebox by pulling on the handle at the same time as turning the key on the lock.
It catches as the key is about halfway round, you can feel it on the handle.

Now that I've got the documents out urgency is over, I'll probably have it looked at at the next service.

Might have a look at the lock barrel sync thing myself if I've got some time. At least I can get at it with it open !

Thanks to everyone who replied.