Steering wheel keeps locking
 

It's been getting worse and worse, but I have to sit there and wiggle the key and the wheel and eventually it frees up.

Is my ignition bad? Is there any way to disable this handy "feature"?

Thanks in advance.

First, let me recommend reading information on the ignition lock in the DIY section.

This is not to avoid the question but to help you decipher where, and how serious, the problem can be.

Is the key failing to turn to the "II" position? This could be as simple as replacing the tumbler. To keep from having multiple keys, order a new tumbler from the dealer ~$20 (they will need proof of ownership).

If the key turns but the lock is staying engaged, beware of a possibly more serious problem. ($$$ if not caught in time)

The key won't turn at all, I wiggle for a while and it turns to position 2 and right to start.

That's the sign of a worn ignition tumbler.

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?p=1065596#post1065596

It's a real simple procedure of turning the key to the "II" position, inserting a paper clip and removing the collar. The first time took me about 15 min. after that you can probably do it in about 5min. The links I pasted will give you more information.

BTW, If you are using brass keys, get rid of them. They are OK for an emergency set but not for everyday use.

Well that's good news. I'm guessing I'm going to have to order the tumbler from the dealer otherwise I'll end up using two separate keys.

I appreciate the help.

What type key are you using, the original MB steel key? Are the teeth on the key worn out? If you dont have the original key, i recommend you buy the proper key from your local MB dealer first.

Sometimes its a worn key rather than a worn ignition tumbler.

I've got two keys. One original and one aftermarket. Maybe I'll order a key from the dealer and see if that helps.

do the keys appear to be worn?

Order a new key first, then order a tumbler if necessary .

A new tumbler and key will be more than $20.

I bought a timbler and 2 key for the 80 240D, and it was $90 for the tumbler and $15.84 for the second key plus tax.
There might be a variable in price differences between dealers, I don`t know.

You won`t get the key or tumbler the day you order it. It is over nighted from Texas where they keep the secret codes :rolleyes:.

I had to replace the lock assembly`s on the 80 240D and 85 300D. I had a good used one for the 80, but had to order a new one for the 85, it was $172.00. but after 25yrs and 30yrs, they do wear out.

Charlie

Yea I was talking about the non mb tumblers you can buy off the parts sites. Well I might as well order the key first I can still use it if the tumbler is bad and I have to order a new one.

The keys dont really look won to me, but it's hard to tell.

Just for reference, I bought a new tumbler(which comes with a key) and also a spare key from MB for $76. You should have the same part number, therefore the same price.

And you do need to take in your title, or registration in your name, plus a photo ID to order these pieces. Also, once you order them they will not drop ship them to your house. You have to drive back a couple of days later to pick them up.

There's no guarantee that this problem will be solved by a new tumbler. Act on the safe side and when installing the tumbler do not re-install the hardened cylinder that screws on around the tumbler. Try turning the ignition key first and if you still have the same problem (my guess is you will) you'll need to replace or modify the steering lock assembly. Others have removed the locking portion allowing the steering wheel to move without turning the key. This effectively fixes the lock issue. I replaced the entire assembly which is easier (though more expensive, obviously).

The dealer shipped the tumbler and key to me. I paid $8 for the postage which was cheaper than driving 40 miles back to the dealer in Monterey.

Charlie

That is nice, perhaps it was just a local policy rather than global policy in my case then.