Hello ...

I'm having a problem with my driverside door. Putting the key in the keyhole while trying to open it will only cause the door lock to slightly move up (not completely going up to open the door). I was thinking of just getting a keyless entry, but I can't find any that will fit my car.
Is it necessary then to change the entire driverside lock mechanism if so do I have to send it back to mercedes to get the serial #'s or are there any independent locksmiths that can fix the door lock mechanism?

thanks

The local MB dealer was able to order me a brand new door handle with one key included for about $120. I had to provide the VIN and proof of ownership.

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Robert W. Roe
1983 300SD 264K mi

Thanks for the response!!!

I'll check with my local mb dealer.

Sounds to me like the door latch or vacuum bellow assembly may be at fault and not the door handle or lock cylinder assembly

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MMMMM, Usually it is the handle or the reciever for the handle. The plastic pieces do wear.

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Benzmac:
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
LEAD TECHNICIAN FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

Thanks!!,

Can these plasic parts be replaced, instead of getting a new handle?

Trying to turn the key counter-clockwise (to open), will slightly move the doorlock nob up not enough to engage the doorlock to open. Also while turing the key left , the key will only turn 35 degrees left and will stop, can't turn the key 60 degrees left (horizontal).

Any suggestions?

Your symptoms sound exactly like what mine was doing prior to replacing the door handle. I could turn the key in the lock perhaps 30 degrees counterclockwise and maybe 10 degrees clockwise. Replacing the handle solved the problem; no, I didn't try to repair the existing handle. I still have the old handle; if you want to try microsurgery on the thing I could send it to you, but it seemed beyond my ability to tear it apart and fix it and easier to just replace the handle with a new one.

In my experience you can't repair it. I have tried, but it came back. From now on I just replace it.

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Benzmac:
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
LEAD TECHNICIAN FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

Thanks for all the info. I'll check with my MB Dealer today....

GP