Does anyone know how to pull the key switch out of the dash on a 96 E320. What position do you need to rotate it to so that it can be removed.

 

what are you planning on doing now hehe

 

My key is stuck in the ignition. It rotates but will not come out when in the off position. It won't let go...

 

E, have you tried checking the gear shift adjustment? If it's misaligned, you won't be able to remove the key even though its in "Park". I think there's also a switch to the brake that won't allow you to remove the key if your foot is still on the brake. That switch might need adjustment/replacement as well. Hope it helps.

 

Where are the switches that you mentioned? Is there one on the brake lever and one below the shift assembly?

 

If the gear shifter is still unlocked, try shifting all the way down to first and then back up to park. Also pump the brake once or twice to see if it's stuck by any chance and it could free up...Good luck!

 

My gear shift knob is locked as well. It will not come out of park. I have tried stepping on the brake but it still will not move out of park.

 

Man that sucks! I wish I could offer some more advice but I'm stumped. Let's wait and see if an MB tech. or someone that is familiar with this can lend a helping post...

 

You will need a ignition switch removal tool.

 

I removed the armrest so that I could see the interlock on the side of the shift lever. I flip it with a screw driver out od the way so that I could shift in to gear and drive it to the dealership.

First I called a service advisor and ask how I could get the car to the dealer if it won't shift out of park. He said that it would have to be towed in. When I got there and showed him that I removed the armrest. He said that you sure went ot a lot of trouble. I said how else would I have got it here except by towing it. Then he told he that there is a way to defeat the interlock on the bottom of the shift lever. I guess you just push down on it and then shift it out as if you were going to tow the car.
Now why didn't he tell me that on the phone, jerk..

 

Just so you can spend more money! This is what I say to the "stealerships:" !!!

 

The cable broke off in back of the key switch that goes to the interlock on the shifter. At least it is not something electronic like a shift module or the key switch. So far the cable is only $70.

 

i remember when my key got stuck in the switch. i was **** scared thinking i might have busted the switch. it all happened after i kept on playing witht the ignition (turning it back and forth)
i was told its some kind of protection system which does not let u take out the key without first starting the car to protect the ignition system and whatnot. so what i did was turn the engine on, drove for a bit, and after parking it and turning the car off, it came out! hooray!!