Ignition Tumbler replacement... QUICK RESPONSE NEEDED PLEASE!
 

My ignition is completely locked. I've tried moving the wheel and turning the key, I've tried other keys, I've tried WD40, I've tried jigging it unlil my hand is dead tired, I've called mercedes tech and roadside assistance both told me I'd have to get her towed to get the thing replaced, which will run me 60 bucks for getting it onto the flat bed then 2-4 bucks a mile, THEN 300 bucks if it's simply the tumbler. My question is, can I put a new tumbler in myself, what's a tumbler cost, where do I get it? Thanks a lot!

It is a diy'er job and pretty straight forward BUT you have got to get it to turn to be able to get it out. I would keep trying to work the steering wheel and key at the same time. Once you get it to the correct position then get a straightened paper clip that will fit into the little hole close to where the key goes. You have to "release" the catch using the paper clip and then unscrew the black ring around the tumbler. As you unscrew it you can ease the tumbler out.

Problem is the key won't budge... It's just plain stuck. What do you suggest I do to free it up without breaking a key???

If time is not critical, order a new tumbler to match your VIN (~$100). It will come with a new key you can try. If it works, DON'T 'UNTWIST' THE KEY UNTIL YOU CHANGE THE TUMBLER. The worst case is still having the dealer take care of it. You just bought the parts in advance.

You can call a locksmith, but I'm sure he'll quote from the Mercedes owner column of the price list since your car has 'special' locks and keys.

Unless your tumbler stuck for the first time today, you waited too long to replace the tumbler.

Sixto
91 300SE
87 300SDL
81 300SD

Well I got it to work with my valet key (least used so therefore the sharpest teeth) with jiggling and pushing and pulling on the key. My local non-mercedes shop said they can get her done tomorrow, just drop it off tonight. That is definately what I'm going to do, I can walk there in 5 minutes pretty much, but I have two cars. Thanks a lot for the help guys, I really appreciate it!

-|Nate|-

You ain't going to try to do it yourself?
Pretty easy job as long as you can get it to turn.

I'm really too busy to do it. I'm fine with it.

If your valet key turned it, but the master key didn't, I'd say you also need a new master key. I wouldn't use the same worn-out key on your new tumbler.

Mike

You should get a new key with the new tumbler, and maybe you should get an extra one while you're at it, and then see how far you can throw that old key:D

Big plus to getting a new tumbler at the dealer is, show up with your registration and ID, order the tumbler and it should be in in 3-5 working days. When it arrives, you should also have a brand new key - the same key you have now. Any other method and you will forever and on, have to carry two keys - one for the doors/trunk, the other to start the car.

Yup...that's my situation right now, because I bought a used lock/tumbler when my old one gave out.

Mike

You should still be able to get a replacement tumbler and key from the dealer Mike. It's all coded off the VIN. Pretty neat, when I ordered keys for the 560, I gambled that the tumbler had never been changed and only ordered keys. Three days later they were in from Germany, freshly cut and worked in all the locks.

Yeah, I know I can do that, but it's been a pretty low priority...many other items to spend money on lately.

I actually kind of like it, because the tumbler is from a newer SD..an 82 or 84 or something, so the key is the newer, "squarish" version, instead of the more "normal" looking flat key like my old one. Looks more durable and solid. If/when the current one wears out, I may go back to the "correct" key.

Mike

Is this the same as the 70k ignition switch problem?
 

When I posted on a different topic awhile ago, I received this friendly advice:

"Pay attention to the ignition switch. It'll probably start to act up before it fails. Change it before it dies, about $70, cause it will lock itself in and cost a fortune to get out."

Is this thread the result of what happens when the ignition switch dies? My car seems to start OK and has no problems that I can tell. Is this important to do? Another article read that it is around 70k that these fail, and I'm right around that now.

I would appreciate any advice that anyone could offer.

How long will it take to get replaced?
 

Well, I guess I'm glad there's a plus going with the dealer to replace it. I will throw the old worn one away and use the nice, new one when I get it. How long will it take them to do it? I am dropping it off in the night drop on thursday, I'd expect it to be done the next day... If it will be over the weekend (they're like bankers, start late, close early, don't work weekends) I do have my jeep to drive, not a problem there. Thanks a lot for the responses.