Be careful of lint buildup in your key!
 

So, I haven't been able to post any advice for while since I no longer own a Mercedes, but this will apply to all owners with newer keys that are straight on the edge and have the groove in the middle that moves the locks and ignition.

Be sure that your key doesn't build up lint from your pocket or it will collect in the ignition and eventually ruin it! I was stranded last week in my VW because the key wouldn't turn in the ignition. After having the car towed to the shop and haveing them check it out, I was told that lint build up in the key had collected inside the ignition to the point that it could no longer turn. They cleaned it out and re lubricated it and it works fine again. But if it had been left much longer, I'd be buying a new ignition. Now I just make sure that there's no lint in the key before starting the car.

Hope this helps!! :)

My newest car is a 1990. :D :D Daily driver is an '82 No new keys here. ;)

I've seen some lint buildup even on my benz key... my W126 has a more fancy type of key then your standard car lock. I bet the lint on the key can build up in the lock cylinder too... never a bad idea to keep things clean.

-Jaosn

Never happens to Chevy trucks and they keys tend to get actual dirt on them to.:D

Mainly because the truck itself breaks/falls apart long before the lock can get that dirty. :D :D

I don't put my keys in my pocket. I leave them in the ignition so I don't lose them!!

That is a good way to lose the whole car! :eek:

I guess there just aren't as many dumb thieves as there used to be. They must have figured out that you go to the same jail for stealing a $1000 old Mercedes as a $100,000 new one. May as well make it worth your while if you decide to go that route. Never had any trouble, but I do live in an affluent area.

I clean my keys maybe once a month, but thanks for the reminder :)

Nah you trade it in on a new one before that happens.

I do the same. I've lost my keys more times than my car has been stolen.