I just wanted to add that the key is the "smart key" variety.

I asked the guy and he told me that he has replaced the battery in the key already but it still won't turn in the ignition.

I've never owned a smart key car so this is all new to me.

It also sounds a helluva lot more expensive to repair if it goes bad.

Does anybody else have any experience with smart key malfunctions?

I just spoke with the seller again and he said that he only had one key.

Could it be possible that this key just went bad?

He seems to be under the impression that the ignition switch went bad.

From what I've read on here you should be able to start the car with the smart key even if you use the metal key to open the door.

I think he said that the keyless entry still works but it won't start the car.

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1993 W124 300D
-297K on the clock as I type this.