FYI. Cars with DAS have a transponder ring (
edit: except early verions of DAS) and use a slightly different "tool" to remove the tumbler cover/ring. The thread linked below is rather long but has some very good photos and videos which are helpful on the 1997/DAS models. Factory WIS procedure also attached below in PDF format.
Help!!!!!!!!!!!!!! key won't turn ignition - Benzworld.org - Mercedes-Benz Discussion Forum
For the later/DAS cars, the special tool is not needed... pliers works fine. Which is nice, since the factory tool is >$100, and the aftermarket tool is still $40, sheesh. So much for the old days of using bent coat hanger wire for free, eh? *sigh*
