Managed to get the key almost all the way in, but it still won't turn.

I will give the orbital sander idea a go. I also have made the tool needed to remove the cylinder.
I guess if I can't turn it I will have to resort to drilling it out.

slk230Red, Do you know where to drill if I can't get the key to position 1?

__________________
2016 Monsoon Gray Audi Allroad - 21k
2008 Black Mercedes E350 4Matic Sport - 131k
2014 Jeep Wranger Unlimited Sahara - 62k
2003 Gray Mercedes ML350 - 122k

I'll have to check with my indy. I need to see him this week about some parts, so let me know if you want me to find out.

__________________

1993 190E 2.3
2001 SLK230
1971 LS5 (454) Corvette Convertible

If you could that would be awesome!

__________________
2016 Monsoon Gray Audi Allroad - 21k
2008 Black Mercedes E350 4Matic Sport - 131k
2014 Jeep Wranger Unlimited Sahara - 62k
2003 Gray Mercedes ML350 - 122k

Well, my 1990 300TE did exactly the same thing about 3 months after I bought it with one key and 125K miles 2 years ago. For no apparent reason the key wouldn't work. Went to the dealer with the title and the key itself. The dealer had a brand new key sent sent to them (they couldn't actually make a copy themselves!). The new key worked great right off the bat and has ever since, and I swear, I hold this new one that
works side by side with the old one and I cannot see any difference at all, they look identical, but the new one works and old one won't...still....I try it from time to time....the ignition key is an interesting little monkey....

I'll see what I can find out.

Also, check out this locksmith. He has developed a MB Template for drilling out tumblers.


Randy Mize
Mize Lock & Key
367 Hickory Spring Ln, Union, MO (314) 353-0779


"RANDY MIZE: With 30 years experience as an automotive locksmith, Randy has made transponders and high security his priority. Randy is the inventor of Lockmasters' High Security Flip Pick and the Mercedes Drill Template. Randy is considered the most highly respected automotive locksmith in the US because of his devotion to the trade and his exceptional energy level. He is also a consultant to aftermarket tool manufacturers and OE automobile manufacturers."

__________________

1993 190E 2.3
2001 SLK230
1971 LS5 (454) Corvette Convertible

How worn is your key?

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-Justin

91 560 SEC AMG - other dogs dd
01 Honda S2000 - dogs dd
07 MB ML320 CDI - dd
16 Lexus IS250 - wifes dd

it's automatic.

Looks fine to me....All the doors work with the key. I can see that the tumbler is loose so its gotta be broken. I'm gonna find the spare key and give it a try for the hell of it....if I can find it that is....the housing broke a while back...

__________________
2016 Monsoon Gray Audi Allroad - 21k
2008 Black Mercedes E350 4Matic Sport - 131k
2014 Jeep Wranger Unlimited Sahara - 62k
2003 Gray Mercedes ML350 - 122k

I've got a 95 e320 wagon and I think the tumbler is on its way out. i can insert the key and turn, but then something catches and I can't turn. a slight jiggle and I can more forward. I guess I better call the dealer like yesterday right? what I'm looking for is the "tumbler" correct? what will they need, VIN?

Yes ignition tumbler. Are you going to replace it yourself or hand it over?

__________________
2016 Monsoon Gray Audi Allroad - 21k
2008 Black Mercedes E350 4Matic Sport - 131k
2014 Jeep Wranger Unlimited Sahara - 62k
2003 Gray Mercedes ML350 - 122k

If it turns to position 1, leave it there and replace the tumbler ASAP!

__________________

1993 190E 2.3
2001 SLK230
1971 LS5 (454) Corvette Convertible

I ordered the tumbler and it will be here tomorrow. everything seems fine...oh crap, now I've done it..hopefully my car hasn't blown up.

anywho, so yeah I suppose I need to figure out how to remove it. I see some kind of bent/shaped hanger wire. Is that all I need? I guess I need to read some more posts!

BTW I havent opened anything, do I need to or do I only need access to the face of the ignition?