Hello,
I have a 2002 S430 and when I put the key in the ignition sometimes the key will not turn. I have to take it out and try it again. It will get stuck 1/3 of the time.

This has been going on for 3-4 months now...

So Now Recenty-(within the past week) When I turn the key, and it lets me, my car will turn on, but also my Airmatic Warning Light comes on, My windows do not work as well as my headlights and radio. Then if I turn it off, take the key out, put the key back in, and turn it back on again it will Start "Normal" about 1/4 of the time and mess up the other 3/4 of the time...

I have to sit there and turn my car on and off sometimes 10-15 times before I can leave..


My question is Could it be my key and or ignition? I called the dealership and they said that its $900+ for the parts and $400 for install.. Thats for the remote and the ignition. They also said they were the only ones who can do the install.

(My blade key is fine,IT just will not fit into the new style remote). So they changed the remote to a new style and do not offer the old one anymore?? Hmmmm... I wonder Why? Anyways..


So I looked on Ebay and Bam $190 for the remote and the ignition. HERE

So, will the $190 Ebay Special fix it? or do I need to get a whole new ignition from MB? Or do u think its even my ignition switch or Key Mabey?

I also made a Video... Here 2002 S430 Ignition Problem - YouTube


Please Let me know what you think, I cant pay for a new ignition right now.

Thanks!
Joey

The parts are what MB called 'thief prevention' parts and MB maintains pretty tight control. Avoid eBay on this issue. It could be a low car battery. If the problem tends to be first thing but goes away after driving during the day look into that. As a key fails it stops getting recognized by the DAS.

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Good luck.






1998 E320 Wagon

Have you checked the battery in the remote/key?

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Resistance is Futile.

The batteries in the key are only required to lock/unlock doors and open/close windows and sunroof.

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Good luck.






1998 E320 Wagon

I just tried replacing the battery key.... That did nothing

Any other ideas?

If the car battery is more than 3 years old, you need to suspect it. Check the voltage drop on starting.

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Prost!

Take it to a dealer and have them diagnose it, It WILL save you a lot of money. This can't be fixed cheaply and not by buying something of fleabay.

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600SEL '91
300E 4Matic '88
240D '83
280SE '77
350SE '73
The most complex systems can fail in the simplest way.
Contra verbosus noli contendere verbis, sermo datur cunctis, animi sapientia paucis.

i don't believe in the lord! He's never bought me a Mercedes Benz.

Well I found this Ignition Starter Switch for MERCEDES-BENZ |2205450808 and its $400 to install. Plus ill get the $150 off of the $400 labor.. So $250 plus $450= $700 ... I hope thats the issue.... I can deal with that..

Also, I rand across a thread on accident that addresses my AC issue! Its a $100 fix.. I live in Las Vegas and its friggin HOT!!!!

So Hopefully everything works out!

Ill keep you posted..

The fact that the windows, radio, etc. stop working when the fault occurs is screaming BAD KEY!!!!! Sounds like your key isn't completely transmitting data to EIS shortly after it's switched on. As far as the rest of the car is concerned the key might as well be in your pocket. That's why certain accessories aren't working. Bring your picture ID, title and registration to your dealer, along with about $250 and buy a replacemenyt key. You still may end up replacing the EIS but start with a new key first.

Well, I just went to the Dealer**** and they said I had to buy new Key before they will even look at it.... I "Brought my $250" and they said I still owed $132...
$382 for a new key and Blade. You cant just buy the remote part, they changed the design so the blade will not fit into the old remote...... So I will get my new key Thursday and keep everyone posted.