Driver's door lock

[jpenix]

The driver's door lock on my 1983 380SEL just lost its spring resistance. If I turn the key to lock/unlock the doors and then let go of it, it doesn't snap back to vertical. I have to move it back manually and then remove the key.

Locking/unlocking works fine, and it doesn't really bother me, but I was wondering if this is a warning sign of worse things to come.

I know that it's prudent to replace the ignition lock as soon as it exhibits odd behavior to prevent costly repairs later. Is that the same situation with door lock? Or should I just leave it go until it finally gives up the ghost?

--Josh
1983 380SEL 88k mi