Ignition Key Problem

[DNS45]

I have a 1984 190D with 400,000 KM on it, and recently the ignition key mechanism starting giving me problems - it would not turn until I worked with the wheel, the key, etc. I put graphite in it, but it just got worse and now will not turn at all - we have tried everything.

Now for the real problem: If I cannot get the ignition to turn for a few moments I cannot release the pin (key pin?) to take out the key mechanism and replace it. My mechanic has never seen this type of problem, and he tells me that if I cannot come up with some sort of answer to this we will have to take out the entire column and do some other nasty and expensive things to my beloved Mercedes.

We have contacted the local Mercedes dealer, and they will not even give us the time of day. I need the help of someone who cares about the car, not just selling a new car.

I would very much appreciate an idea from someone who might have experienced a similar problem.

Regards,
Dale

 

[jaymanek]

You need to change your ignition barrell. Your dealer can order you one to fit your current key. This should have been done when it first gave you problems im afraid to say.

To change it, the key does have to be turned to No1 position, then you need to insert two small rods into the holes around the barrell. (there are pics somewhere on this forum, do a search for ignition barrell). The barrell pops out and you put the new one in... from what i gather...

But the main problem you have, is to get it into no1 position.. If you cant, then im afraid things have to get broken, so its best to leave it to a mechanic....

As i said, if you do a searh, you will find a better explanation.

 

[Arnie]

Perhaps you can try a new key in the ignition. Both the key and the lock barrel will wear with use and so a new key may be just enough to get it working. You'll need to go to a dealer with your registration document and ID (driving licence) and it will take about 3-days to get the new key.

You could also try squirting in some WD40, incase the graphite has gummed things up.

 

[DNS45]

Hearty thanks to Jaymanek and Arnie for some very good advice. I also followed their point about the "ignition barrel" through other discussions and found other excellent approaches to the problem. I am making a go at it as we speak.
I may yet end up with a nasty problem and bill, but at least you showed me through the process and that others have had the same problem.
It's websites like yours that make the Internet a useful tool !!!
Regards,
Dale

 

[bandersen]

Hi there!

I had exactly the same problem with my 200 (1988) a couple of months ago. After almost a year with NO problems whatsoever, the key suddenly refused to turn. The guy from the AA did his best (which involved lots of lubrication and a nasty hammer...) but eventually gave up. The car was brought into my local MB dealer and - as feared - there was only one solution: complete replacement of barrel + steering wheel lock. Yes, of course I had left the car with the wheel locked!

Waiting time for replacement barrel to arrived from Germany: 2 weeks. Cost: £485. I asked if they couldn't just replace it with an off-the-shelf barrel but apparently that was not their policy.

Well, at least I can still use my original key ;-)

I can only say to all of you who experience any kind of problems with your ignition barrel or key: get it fixed immediately while you are still able to turn the key. Unfortunately I got no such warning myself.

 

[shayes]

IGNITION BARREL FAILURE

Just last week experienced same problem on my 500SEC.
Key would not turn to position 1. Told two holes with pins etc but my barrel only has one hole.
Called out AA after numerous attempts to turn it and reminded of a spare key which ONLY FITS THE IGNITION and not the doors. Lot of spray grease and he got it to turn and started her up. He suggested I take it to the Merc Dealer while it was running. Rang local (Lancaster Colchester) and they said it would be a week before they could fit a new lock. They had just sold a "temporary barrel" and could get me one witihn 24 hours. Decided to switch off engine and get local Garage to fit temporary barrel. Next day, of course, could not get Car to start. It had been booked in for replacement of the hydro suspension oil and so thought they could do extra job of barrel. Told them could not get car to them - then on return managed to get it started. Anyway, they said a B..... to fit as had to get to it from below. Removing parts in footwell I have always found difficult job to fit back. Temporary lock cost £24 and decided to cancel the order of new lock with original key coding, or more labour charges . So I have got different keys for ignition and door. I can live with it. Did you say £485.00?? My bill for the two jobs cost £111.00

 

[nas]

I had the same problem with my merc 190 2.3-16 it got to the stage i couldnt turn it at all so that meant i couldnt put it in key postion 2 to release the barrell, so what i done was a home job all u have to do is drill the barrell from a angle so that it drills out the pin for the steering lock once thats done u loosen the clamp thats round the barrell and then slide the barrell out nice and easy,replacement second hand barrell cost me £30 with key.

 

[bandersen]

Well, I have apparently been ripped off by my local MB dealership. If I had been given the choice, I would have gone for the off-the-shelf barrel but the dealer claimed that "they didn't do that" so I had to accept the "made to key" option. What do I know... On the other hand I must admit that the job was extremely well done. No mess at all. It's impossible to see that any work has been done around the ignition/steering column area. And I got 12 months full warranty.... and a free car wash courtesy of the MB dealer ;-)