Ignition switch lubrication on W210

[veer]

Is there any way to lubricate the ignition switch ( engine immobilizer) of the 1998 E- Class w210 ? The switch in our car is beginning to offer a slight resistance while being turned.

Veer

Put graphite on the key and work the key in and out while adding more graphite. Be prepared to clean up the external mess after you're done.

Good luck,

[mbdoc]

Your 1998 car should have a smart key system & that system shouldn't be lubricated at all.

[Kestas]

A recent post mentioned graphite lube may be a problem for the alarm connection in the lock due to the conductivity of the lube.

[veer]

Thank you for your replies.

My car does have a smart key. The slight resistance is present while turning the key during high humidity months and in warmer months the switch works as good as new.

The resistance is very slight and does not hinder operation in any way. I was wondering if there is anything that can be done to prevent the switch from deteriorating or can this be considered within normal limits and ignored.

Veer

[George301]

Hi guys. Thought I would bring this thread back as I am having trouble with my 1998 E300 ignition switch. Sometimes it won't turn and needs alot of jigggling particulalry when cold. Is there anything that can be done to ward off a complete failure of this thing? Any definititive word on graphite?

Thanks!

[ILUVMILS]

Originally Posted by George301

....Sometimes it won't turn and needs alot of jigggling particulalry when cold.Thanks!

The problem may be a faulty key. Does the problem happen with all of your keys, or just one?

[George301]

Thanks for the response. Unfortunately I only have one key. I bought it used and that's all it came with. My new problem is that the car won't turn over at all. I put the key in and it takes some jiggling and removal and reinsertion to get it to turn, but when it turns everything lights up like normal, but no crank or even attempt at a crank Tried jumping it but same problem.

Any ideas?

[ILUVMILS]

If you're trying to diagnose a no-crank condition on an EIS equipped MB, and you've only got one key, you're wasting your time. Search this Forum and you'll see what I mean.