W124 Door lock removal -- no key
 

Before I begin mindlessly taking apart stuff, is it possible to remove the door locks to a W124 without a key? If so, how?

I'd like to install a new lockset in my wagon, but not having the keys to the door locks that are already in the car is holding me back. I'd like to remove the old locks so I can install new ones for which I have the key.

Many thanks,

Corvo Gold
1987 300TD, converted to stick shift

Is the car locked with windows up?

Unlocked and the windows roll down. The car is fully roadworthy!

Corvo Gold
1987 300TD, converted to stick shift

I'm pretty certain a key is required to remove the lock cylinder. Have you considered a wireless remote to lock and unlock?

https://youtu.be/OYPVjnr8jW4

Not sure what you want to do. You can remove the door lock assembly real easy if you can open the door. It is the same for all Mbz.

Original key must be inserted to remove the door lock barrel , and one that fits the leaves inside the barrel .This will have to be done to withdraw barrel from the handle . I dont know a way around this but there could be one just keep looking in on your post .

door lock
 

This is how it done .Without a key maybe drill out the barrel .

did you get the lock cylinder only or the complete handle?

I'm pleased to report that I was able to remove one of my door locks despite not having the key. Here's what I did:

1) Remove interior door panel.

2) Loosen or remove 3mm grub screw that secures the lock in place.

3) Remove the three Phillips screws that secure the latch to the door. They are in there very tight, so I used a vice grips on my screwdriver to create leverage.

4) Unclip from the door the rod that connects the interior handle to the latch. You don't need to remove the rod from the latch, just the plastic piece on the door itself.

5) There is now enough slop so you can pull out and turn the lock assembly by hand. Use a flat head screwdriver as a lever to push in on the latch and, at the same time, pull out and turn the lock assembly with your other hand. Alternately, you can use the screwdriver as leverage against the lock assembly, but make sure you use something to protect the paint on the door.

6) Disconnect the wires and remove.

The only problem is the plastic piece that secures the three wires crumbled and I couldn't determine which order the wires go in. Does the order even matter?

Corvo Gold
1987 300TD, converted to stick shift