Key won't turn in my 124 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

muleears · #1 08-21-2010, 01:16 PM

I replaced the ignition lock two years ago so I don't think that is the problem. The car won't let you turn the key. You can move the steering wheel all you want and it doesn't make a difference. I have made sure there is no tension on the steering wheel lock also. Is there a shift interlock that prevents starting if the car is not fully in park? Is this adjustable? I have tried starting in neutral and wiggled the shifter many different ways. It acts as if its the wrong key, it won't move off of the locked position. Any suggestions are appreciated.

soothappens · #2 08-21-2010, 01:34 PM

See if this helps not sure if its the same on the 124 chassis.

Steering lock repair

muleears · #3 08-21-2010, 02:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by soothappens

See if this helps not sure if its the same on the 124 chassis.

Steering lock repair

Thanks Soot.
I'm hoping mine isn't that involved. Is the key in your car located in the steering column or the dash? In my 124 it's in the dash. Don't know if that would make a difference.

soothappens · #4 08-21-2010, 02:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by muleears

Thanks Soot.
I'm hoping mine isn't that involved. Is the key in your car located in the steering column or the dash? In my 124 it's in the dash. Don't know if that would make a difference.

My key is in the dash.
It wasn't that bad of a job just remember how it came apart. I completely disassembled my spare one and this was the only part other than the actual key tumbler that showed wear and the possibility of locking up.

Lots of info on this forum on how to remove it from the column.

I haven't had a problem with it since.

Jeremy5848 · #5 08-21-2010, 02:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by muleears

I replaced the ignition lock two years ago so I don't think that is the problem. The car won't let you turn the key. You can move the steering wheel all you want and it doesn't make a difference. I have made sure there is no tension on the steering wheel lock also. Is there a shift interlock that prevents starting if the car is not fully in park? Is this adjustable? I have tried starting in neutral and wiggled the shifter many different ways. It acts as if its the wrong key, it won't move off of the locked position. Any suggestions are appreciated.

Based on your list of cars, you are talking about the '87, correct? That car does not have a transmission interlock. You say you "can move the steering wheel all you want." Does this mean that the steering lock also does not work, that you can turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock even with the ignition lock all the way off? If so, something in the steering lock may be broken and jamming up the works.

I assume you have already tried any spare keys that you might have. When you replaced the ignition lock, did you get one specifically for your VIN from a dealer or was it a junkyard special? If it is the lock meant for your car, you can get a new key from a dealer and see if it will work in the lock.

Some folks have had success using a palm sander or other vibrating device to buzz the components of the lock cylinder and eventually get it to turn to position #1. If you eventually manage this, I advise leaving the key in the lock at position #1, removing the lock cylinder, and replacing it with a new one.

Jeremy

muleears · #6 08-21-2010, 04:37 PM

What I meant about the steering wheel was that moving it didn't make any difference. It still locks as it is supposed to. The ignition lock was a new replacement lock for a mercedes, it shouldn't be worn out, the car hasn't been driven that much. Yes, I tried both keys also and it didn't help. When the old lock wore out it gave me some warning. It began to stick and catch and occasionally be difficult to get to turn. This just began wednesday with no warning. Thanks for the info.