Nope, I was not charged -- and certainly would have refused if the locksmith even suggested it.

Based on what you said, perhaps this is for the best. I'll do both the locking mechanism and the tumbler.

I will probably have another, more capable locksmith drill out the cylinder. I was told it would take about 2 hours. After that, I will be able to drive it to whatever service center will supply and install the new lock.

I assume I will be given some form of temporary key if they are able to do this tomorrow. Since my only key was broken (the old one is too worn) I will have no choice but to either replace the door and trunk locks, or not lock the car until new keys for my VIN arrive. (Right now all the windows and sunroof are wide open, since I can't power anything up, so keeping it unlocked for a few more days won't be a hardship.)

WOuld it also be possible, and sensible, to simply leave out or disable the steering lock?

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2008 E350 4matic / Black/Anthracite

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Gone but not Forgotten:
2001 E430 4matic, 206,xxx miles, Black/Charcoal
1995 E320, 252,xxx miles, Black/Grey
1989 260E, 223,00 miles, Black/Black