ignition tumbler from where.
 

I need to replace the ignition tumbler in the 85 (only 1 key) and the 83 (sticking)
There are really cheap ones out there, like $20. Or the dealer ? and some in between.

Which way should I go and why?

Also the key for the 85 is cut on both sides, but has the ridge down the key that is not cut (and fits in the ignition). This will not open any other doors on the car. Lots of keys in the glove box, but none work on the ignition but the one.

this same style of key on the 83 works the door (but will not fit in the ignition)?

I need more than one key for my car. The local locksmith is no help.

One hard lesson
 

has been in the key/tumbler area, order it at the dealer, by the VIN. (BTW you'll need your registration also.) Anything else is taking a chance with your time and money.

You can buy tumblers with keys on-line for less but you won't have the "correct" one made specifically for your VIN and you won't have a matched set that all work from the same key. This is one of those cases where it's best to go with the factory method and just be prepared for it to be expensive.

The key that fits the '85 ignition only could be because your car has already been re-tumblered. That problem will be fixed by ordering a tumbler with keys from the dealer so you get the correct one. As Sean mentioned, they will want to see proof of registration in your name.

Hint: an MBCA membership will get you a 15% discount at most Mercedes dealers. Although I buy most of my parts on line, there are some things that I buy from my local dealer and my membership has saved me a lot of money.

Jeremy

I agree, they can be a bit spendy. Mine was $85 for one cylinder and key but I had it in four days.

Local dealer said $95. and $24 for extra keys.
He said that the key with the ridge down it is the master key. So here is hoping that the 85 has the MB key in it, it has the ridge, and works, and works in the Drivers door only.
Will order a new set for the 83 from MB.
thanks

I think I just payed $120 local.

1 key+tumbler.

I called the dealer yesterday for a new tumbler and a key. gave me a price of $61.30.

Look in Fastlane, call Phill. think it is $43.00.

You need the key and tumbler for your Vin#. If you replace the tumbler from the junk yard and lucky to find the key for it, what happens if you loose the key? can`t call the dealer for one. and if you write down the vin# from the jy one, you still can`t get the key w/o the registration.

Same if one is purchased off e-bay.

this is one area on these cars that it is not good to cheapen out. will come back to bite you in the end.

Charlie

Ditto to the Dealership
 

I inquired at my local dealership, regarding tumblers and keys.....actually asked the shop manager if he knew a good locksmith that can rework a set of tumblers to match my existing key......on my 300D the passenger door does not operate with my key.

I was informed that I could purchase an entire door latch assembly keyed to match my ignition key for something like $125.00.

I did purchase a new key for the 300D for $25.00...came in less than a week.

You do need the registration, MB will not supply keys without proof of ownership.

Also, the 190E's ignition switch didn't want to turn, asked about removal...the same service manager told me to turn the key with a crescent wrench or channellocks......that the key was worth $25.00 and that the ignition would take me a few hours to drill out.....I used the crescent wrench (after months of spraying WD 40 into the switch) it turned, and actually was easier to turn than I had expected...I just didn't want to break off the key.....after a couple of operation cycles the old ignition works just fine now.....

SB

If you inquire at your local dealer, be sure to ask if they have a generic key and tumbler, its OEM quality just not matched to your door. Usually about half the price of the factory original matched one.

The dealer actually wants more for the generic, than for the car specific tumbler set.
Guess I will go order the right stuff, and hope that the rest of the car has not been changed!
thanks

Your better off just getting it from the dealer, if your door lock's havn't been changed the new key should work in everything.