mossyoaks

Greetings to MBWorld forum! My first post here. Thanks in advance.

5/96 production e320 USA

Problem:

Insert the switchblade key into the ignition.

Key will not turn clockwise and no 'electrical sound' is heard (possibly unlocking steering wheel?)

I was helping a friend by renewing a headlight bulb. Ignition worked fine and now it's stuck. I'm unable to find out if she has experienced this before. My guess is no.

This ignition/key (switchblade type) seems to be only on very early W210s and the tumbler/cylinder looks to be prone to catastrophic failure- as to be expected on any 20+ y/o car. I've had this occur on my mid-90's BMWs. Lubricated, wiggled, cussed, and prayed. The key will not turn.

I will recommend a new key from the dealer. Her's looks worn.

If the new key activates all the tabs on the tumbler, then problem averted. Then I can remove the old lock cylinder and install a new one.

Question:

Should I hear an mechanical sound when inserting the key? I am not. Would the lock mechanism be preventing the key from turning?

(Battery is fully charged)

nelbur

Make sure the steering lock is not bound up by wiggling the wheel while trying to turn the key. Insert the key upside down and try again. Lube the cylinder with the graphite made for the job and try again. If you buy a flat key it should be only 30 to $40, while the switchblade will be much more expensive unless you can buy only the blade. The cylinder that fits her keys can be bought through the dealer. I recommend that they install it as the steering lock can be tricky if accidentally triggered.

kajtek1

Typical tumbler failure.
Chances the new blade will turn are minimal, so be ready for replacing the tumbler.
Also check if you car has key recognition chip, what shows as electronic ring on the lock.
In US 1996 did not have it, but 1997 did.
In the mean time most of the time the old key will still turn with some vibration.
No need to steal a vibrator from the wife, when a jig saw can do the trick.

mossyoaks

I'll see if I can vibrate the tumbler into submission.


Does the steering wheel unlock immediately when the key is inserted?


I remember on my dad's 99 e320 (different key fob) that as soon as the fob was inserted, a mechanical sound could be heard and then the switch was ingaged/turned.

kajtek1

99 has key fob, where mechanical blockade is moved by electric motor.
You have metal key that moves blockade when it turns.

mossyoaks

I'm anticipating having to remove the entire lock and key assembly and replace with new parts. I've had to do this twice in our BMW e34 tourings.


Anyone have experience with www.mercedessource.com ?


They provide parts and videos on how to replace the assembly. Prices seem on par with other online parts sources.

kajtek1

Beware that MB has a blockade that with any tampering will go into permanent lock.
That is why the job is consider top end DIY.
Even there are ways to defeat permanent lock, lot of members ended up with lot of hack-sawing or very high bill from dealer.