I have a 1998 ML320. Recently, when I withdraw the key the car "beeps" as though the key were still in the ignition and I cannot use the fob to lock the car (have to do it manually). After a lot of research - I think it is the ignition switch is faulty - apparently it senses the key in the ignition and that sensor can go bad. Some alternate suggestions were made in a previous post.

ML320 Remove Key & Column Lock Doesn't Occur

I would like to replace the ignition switch - is this difficult? How would I do it - do I need to disassemble the whole steering column to get it or is there a trick to pulling out the whole ignition cylinder, tumbler and switch as a unit so I can replace the switch. If I need to take apart the column - is this difficult?

Unrelated (I think) my ETS light has gone on. I think this must be the brake stop lamp switch.