Help needed - W124 E320 key won't turn

[westcliff]

I got into my E320 this evening, put the key in the ignition and it wouldn't turn. Fortunately the car is in the office car park so it should be safe tonight, but tomorrow I'm going to have to try to move it.

The only thing I noticed is that the silver disc on the ignition lock that the key goes through turns round and I'm sure it shouldn't.

I don't know much about ignition and steering locks, so I would appreciate any pointers before I rip out the dashboard.

 

[Ellsy Tanners]

The key barrels are replaceable on there own, however this is not as easy as it seems as you need to be able to move the key to position one, then insert a long pin into the hole on the silver ring around the key, all the way through, then with a lot of wiggling and pulling and some luck it will come out. You can then put a temperary lock from a dealer in and use it with a different key.

I would start off by wiggling the key like mad and twisting in the hope to free it off, oh and moving the steering wheel at the same time, you never know.

 

[westcliff]

Thanks Ellsy. At the moment, the key won't even go to position one, but I'll try to free the lock in the morning. I hope Mercedes keys don't snap easily.

 

[Ellsy Tanners]

P.m me some contact details and I might be able to help you if your stuck.

Good luck.

 

[westcliff]

The wiggling and twisting did the trick. It problem seems to happen when the steering lock is engaged very gently when I get out of the car. If I tug the steering wheel until it locks, no problem. If I give it a tiny nudge to lock it, like I did this morning, the ignition key won't turn without some wiggling, like I had to do this evening.

I'll be at my local M-B specialist on Friday, so I'll ask them what they think.

Thanks again for your help.

 

[NewMB]

I had a similar problem with my first Volvo, a 760 Turbo.

One day, got in the car, key in, tried to turn. No chance

Had to arrange a tow to nearest dealer.

Verdict... the lock had been worn out! New lock and keyes to match lock in doors and boor. Took a week and cost £300 in 1996 :sad: