Key won't turn past pos. 2...
 

Hi, I have a 1999 ML320 and about 70% of the time I can't turn the ignition key past position 2. It feels like it's "blocked" or something. Then, usually after 5 to 10 attempts, it turns all the way and starts.
I've tried every manner of physical finessing, jiggling, leaning, &c. I've also tried humble pleading, threats/cursing, and negotiation. No love.
I read about lock ease from another thread and brought the truck to a locksmith who lubed it up with his version of the stuff, but the problem persists. :confused:
Any suggestions?
Thanks so much...

Sometimes I have problems turning the key on our 99 ML430. The trick I learned is that you have to fidget around with the steering wheel and attempt to turn the key at the same time. I try and turn the steering wheel and turn the key simultaneously. It has something to do with the ignition lock with the steering column.

Maybe yours is the same issue?

Gonna try that... Thanks, I'll keep you posted.

So, no luck with moving the steering wheel and turning the key... It still locks up after position two. I was wondering if this has something to do with the chip in the key. So far, everything I've read suggests that when the chip/key is bad the vehicle will start and then immediately stop again. My problem is that the key won't turn past pos. 2 to crank the engine. (Pos 3?) Does anyone know what that is a symptom of? Could it be the cylinder? Any help is greatly appreciated!

Hmm sorry can't help you with that. I'm sorry my solution didn't work. Good luck finding a fix!

sam, you will have to replace your ignition lock cylinder. It is a common problem. After inserting the key into the ignition all the pins should fall into the cylinder. If one remains in the up position you will not be able to fully turn it.

The registered owner of the truck will have to personally visit a M/B dealer and present his/her license, registration and title to the vehicle so that a new lock cylinder can be ordered.

Some dealers will just give you the cylinder after it has been ordered, but others will insist that you have the work done at the dealership. If that is the case then you will have to have the truck towed to the dealership.

If they allow you to DIY then you will have to order the special tool necessary to do the work. But do not order it until you find that out.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mercedes-Ign...8bd360&vxp=mtr

Got it, Maj. Dundee. Thanks! Luckily, I am the registered owner and so far the truck still starts "most" of the time, so I won't need to tow. I'll call around and see if I can find a nearby dealer willing to let me do it myself. Thanks, xxGenericSNxx and Maj. Dundee for your help! I've been a Mercedes owner (of various forms & states) for more than a decade and have referenced this forum a lot over the years. I'm glad to finally be a registered Newbie!

You're welcome and good luck with getting this fixed. I hope you won't get charged an arm and a leg.

So, I found a nearby dealer willing to sell me the cylinder without installing it ($78!)... It came with a spare key that will start my car but the engine dies immediately, as expected. I checked my current working key in the new cylinder and all of the rings depress properly so that looks good. I guess my next step will be to buy that tool you recommended, Maj. Dundee, and swap it out. I'll keep using my old key for now and maybe have them order me a spare (or program the key that came w/the new part). So far, so much better than I expected! Before I dive in, any potential pitfalls I may encounter? Thanks so much!!!!

If you are referring to replacing the cylinder, the answer is no. Just follow the instructions and there won't be any problems.

Quick update: I've ordered the tools I need and they should arrive any day now. Thanks again for the help! I'll update again when the job's done...

It's done! I got the tools and swapped the cylinders in no time... Now it works great! Thanks for your help and advice on this. Love this forum!!

Glad you got everything working. Happy driving!