Broken key in ignition
 

Hi everyone.. I have a 1991 300CE Benz with broken key in the ignition. I have called locksmiths and they are unable to retrieve or removed the broken key. I have a spare which I can use to use the car once I get the busted key out.. Is there a tutorial or does anyone know how I can go about disassembling the ignition? Are there any suggestions or tricks I should be aware of before I start disassemble? Thank you all for any helpful ideas or experiance you can share.

You can order matching key and ignition sets online at ebay. If a locksmith won't touch it...geez. I don't have an idea. Have you called an MB Dealer and asked them what they'd have to do? At least give you and idea maybe.

if you can turn the key to position 2, you will be able to remove the ignition lock..and push the key out from the back...

I've read that using a thin saw blade can possibly pull the broken piece out of the lock cylinder, but again your locksmith should have attempted that.

PMed info that may help you.

Thanks guys... I started to remove the bottom dash last night to gain access into ignition lock. I am aware that I can order replacement parts.. but I guess I am a bit lost.. what would I need to order? According to what I have read on the parts... they stay this is a very sensitive system that requires special parts to replace and install. Someone quoted me $450 to do a complete replacement.. Does that sounds like too much?

Does that mean that if I can remove the unit and turn it I can possibly remove the broken piece my self? Is there an opening at the back of the ignition lock? what do you mean trun the key to position 2?

I just had mine replaced by my trusted indy MB mechanic. He replaced the tumbler, switch, and steering wheel lock. Parts were $270 with new key coded to the old key so I can continue to use just one key for both ignition and doors. Labor was 3 hours=$270. total $510. There is a write up in the DIY articles in this forum. Too complex a job for me. Mechanic confirmed it to be rather involved.

I do not believe for one second that the tech spent 3 hours on your lock. 3 hours, no break? No rest?
Sure, they charged your for 3 hours...90 bucks an hour?
Experience techs know how to do these types of repairs quickly.
I just feel bad that it cost you so much for such an easy repair.

Shops charge book time, Benica. If the mechanic can get the job done in half the time, he makes twice the money. So does the shop.

ignition repair
 

Yes, I was surprised at $510 for this job, but in defense of the tech, he has given me much free advise and has done some diagnostics for me without charging me. Also, he has in the past only charged half of his est. because the job took less time than the "book". I think he's an honest guy . After picking up my car I found the DYI article in this forum on this job and then felt it was a fair price and glad that I didn't tackle it myself.

Yes if you can turn the ignition switch to the #1 position, then you insert the proper tool or a reasonable DIY facsimile into the two holes on either side of the lock cylinder. When the tool is used it first compresses a spring which unlatches the lock cylinder and when the tool is pushed deeper into the mechanism both prongs of the tool move two spring loaded levers inward unlatching the black security cover. The security cover must be unlatched and removed first for the lock cylinder to be removed.

The best results depend on obtaining of fabricating a good tool. The diameter of the tool material and particularly the angles formed on the tool's ends can be the difference between relatively easy success and much difficult frustration.

If and when you get the lock cylinder out you can easily push the broken key section out of it, and make use of a spare key. Of course you'll eventually have to address the reason your key broke but that's another issue.

Here ya Go!
 

http://w124-zone.com/downloads/MB%20CD/W124/w124CD2/Program/Chassis/46-8110.pdf

See if a screwdriver inserted behind the broken key (From the passenger cabin)will allow you to turn the "Tumbler" to Position #1.Then just follow the directions in the manual link above.

IF your "Tumbler" with the broken key will not allow movement Try clamping the
screwdriver handle in a Vibrating Sander ,then attempt to turn "Tumbler".

Thanks guys for all of the new info.. I feel that maybe I can do this my self and save my self some money. Does anyone have a link to this DIY repair?

I found the parts I need on line..I think..

1. Ignition Lock & Tumbler; With Keys $16.71
2. Ignition Lock Housing; Ignition Lock Shield - Heavy Black Metal Cover Over Tumbler $16.91

Question: Should I get this last part? Can I remove the Ignition lock and Tubler and replace it with out having to replace the Lock housing unit?

3.Ignition Lock Housing; Without Key and Tumbler $121.55

black cover comes off with ignition cylinder.... no need to buy..

i think you should be able to get keys and a cylinder for a little less than your stated price.... i think i paid 80 dollars after asking the dealer for an mbca discount

See "LINK" in reply #12
 

"Thanks guys for all of the new info.. I feel that maybe I can do this my self and save my self some money. Does anyone have a link to this DIY repair? "

ICI:

http://w124-zone.com/downloads/MB%20CD/W124/w124CD2/Program/Chassis/46-8110.pdf

ALSO, reams of info about this subject in the "Advanced Search"

All you need for this repair are:
1.New Tumbler (Actually "Leaved" device) (Comes with one new key)
[Keyed to your other Keys by V.I.N. ,available from any MB "Stealership"]
2. Self made or purchased "Tool"
(Correct size Diameter wire,with ends [INBOARD FACING] cut at a 45
degree angle.)