Last week I went to start my '97 E420 and the igintion wouldn't go to position 1. After about 4 days of shaking, heating, spraying (tri-flow) and vibrating, I decided to take the dash off and get to the ignition unit.

So far I have the ignigiton tumbler on order. Here are some pictures to show you where I'm at. What should I do next to complete this job? The main objective is to get my car started. I don't care if the lock pin is operational.

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Since you weren't able to turn key to 1st position, you will need to replace everything.

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Could it be that the key is just worn out?? Do you have a second key?? I know when mine started acting funny, i bought a new key and it works perfectly.

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Dennis
2006 E320 CDI Black/Black Leather. Nav, HTD Seats HK stereo 32000 miles.
2000 VW Passat 1.8t 300,000 miles as of Dec 09, 2009 original owner
1997 E300d Silver 300,000 miles As of Jan 05, 2010
3rd owner SOLD