Key won't turn
 

Anyone bought a VIN matched ignition from MB? Just wondering what that is going to cost me.

I have.
what car do you have?
my 82 SD (W126) cost me 24.00 at the MB dealer for the valet key, and spare main key each. the ignition tumbler was 80 and it came with a key.

gonna be hard to change it if yours will not turn... get out the sander, wiggle wiggle,

My new 300D key cost less than $20, a new tumbler (including a new key costs less than $100).

However, if your key won't turn at all you may need more than a replacement key.

Better visit www.dieselgiant.com for his tumbler replacement DIY. If your key won't turn, it's going to be a difficult job replacing it.

John

My key will turn, just takes an obscene amount of jiggling. Is replacing the cylinder really as simple as releasing the old one and installing a new one?

Yes and no. Visit www.dieselgiant.com and look at his pictorial. It sounds as if yours is on the way out. Replace it now while the fix is easy. If it locks up, it's a royal pain in the ass.
Your dealer might require proof of ownership. Several years ago the FBI issued a directive that all replacement keys/cylinders require proof of ownership ie: title, registeration card etc. Too many pissed off wives, husbands, lovers, queers were ordering keys and stealing cars.

If you can get the key to turn to position 1, yes. If you can not get the key to turn at all then it becomes much more difficult.

I can, so, sweet. New one on order. Now if I could just get it to shift smoothly, replace both rear brake calipers, and get the A/C fixed I would be able to drive the thing!