Key won't turn past pos. 2...
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2012
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1999 ML320/1982 240D
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.
Any suggestions?
Thanks so much...
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.
Any suggestions?
Thanks so much...
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 3,076
Likes: 28
From: Seattle, WA
99 ML430, 01 CLK55, 07 R63, 15 E63 Wagon
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?
Maybe yours is the same issue?
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 7
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1999 ML320/1982 240D
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!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 7,107
Likes: 765
From: Bronx, N.Y.
2002 ML 320 & 2006 ML500
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
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
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2012
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1999 ML320/1982 240D
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!
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Thread Starter
Newbie
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1999 ML320/1982 240D
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!!!!
