tika

I have a bit of a problem. Iv'e got a '96 280 with a malfunctioning drivers side door lock. The lock wont open with the key, but will open from the trunk, other door etc. i presume the vacuum tube is working, since the trunk unlocks it. Any suggestions on where to go next? Dealers quote 300+ to fix. I want to do it myself, if I can pop in new mechanism or such.
The alternative I would consider is a remote unlock, added alarm system. Any suggestions here?

Thanks

Tim

GDawgC220

if you are able to unlock/lock from all other key slots BUT the driver's side, that's a good sign that the actuator is still functioning. My guess is that the latch/pin/wire/cable that pulls and pushes the lock into/out of position is loose. You can take apart the door panel and have a look.

I'm currenly having the same issue with our ML except it won't lock (long story) and another member had the same issue, where a pin was loose and was fixed DIY job.

good luck!

cil254

I have the same problem and in my case the lock cylinder has to be replaced. Special order from MB, they program it to match your existing keys. It was about $150 for the part only.
I didn't fix it and just installed a keyless entry.
You can order the part from MB and install it yourself. It's very easy, one screw only and no need to remove the door panel.

tika

What kind of keyless entry system did you install? That seems like the way to go. My c280 has a couple of these minor issues, but I decided to keep it over my m class POS-even though the c280 has 130k on it.

cil254

This is what I got installed:
http://www.12voltdirect.com/product.aspx?prodid=BK4123

nazrat

That's good to know. Can you elaborate on where you installed it? I know that connecting it to the dash switch would be a problem, since unlocking the car with that button and then starting the vehicle doesn't work. Did you install yours to the trunk lock? Does it still enable/disable the factory security system?

Thanks,
Tad

cil254

I live in Canada, I got mine installed by a shop that does auto radio/alarms etc...
When I called MB Canada, they told me keyless entry can not be retrofitted....
It was put under the front passenger footwell, apparemtly there's a hook up for it there. I heard a lot of people installed it in the trunk where you need to splice into the existing wires. It's a bit of a hack but I guess it works too.
My car does not have an alarm, but the remote controls the inside dome lights nicely and flashes the outside front and tail lights aswell. It does not control the convenience feature though.