For a couple of months I had been driving around keeping my key in the car because of the dreaded ignition switch issue on a 124.

I had to park the car recently because it needs a water pump. We have 4 cars for three drivers so I am lucky.

Anyway, today, I got the cheap white coat hanger and cut it appropriately. On a previous attempt I neglected to cut the hanger on angles.

Today I just did it with a pair of pliers. Didn't really measure angles, but tried to guestimate the 70 degree slant

After wiggling a bit... it came right out , complete with the black metal housing.

Slipped right back in.

The old ignition switch came apart in two...it appears something broke off on the "cap". I tried to fiddle with the old one to get some insight on why the key wouldn't turn. Can't figure that out. I guess they just wear out. The old key and the new key both work on the new switch.

By the way, the new ignition switch from Mercedes seems to have one piece that is hardier than the original... I guess it's the piece that actually turns the ignition.

I'll keep the coat hanger in my car, just in case someone needs a working specimen. The correct position to remove is the position where the radio will work.

Perhaps in a week or so, I will do the water pump... I just don't like that job..which for me took 6 hours on the first go round on my son's 300e... only to put it back together and realize that the tensioner was shot as well.... adding another 1.5 hours to the follow up job.

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1989 300ce 129k
( facelifted front,updated tail lights, lowered suspension,bilstein sports, lorinser front spoiler, MOMO steering wheel, remus exhaust,stainless steel brake lines). (Gone)

1997 s320 154k (what a ride). Sold with 179k miles. Replaced with Hyundai Equus

1994 e320 Cabriolet 108k



1972 280se 4.5 153k Owned for 12 yrs, sorry I sold it


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