W210 immobilized, Can not remove key or shift.
 

My wife went to use my car while I was out of town. She started the car but could not get it out of Park. Then when she shut the car off, the key would not come out of the ignition switch. The car is stuck. It will start but it will not shift out of park.

I took the armrest off and could see 2 cables going to the shifter. One goes to the brake and I can see it moving when I step on the pedal. The other I believe goes to the ignition switch but it doesn't move when I turn the key.

So what can be done to fix this?:mad:

Sounds like you need to replace your ignition. I just replaced mine in a C280. On the C there is a cable that goes from the shifter and screws into the side/back of the ignition. Before fixing it I figured out that if I unscrewed the cable(ignition end) and pushed in the metal tip I was able to get the car out of park into drive etc.

There is a lock/switch in the ignition that is supposed to unlock your shifter, obviously this is not working properly and needs replacing. Your key not coming out of the ignition is another sign of a bad ignition.

You can write down your VIN number and order a new ignition that will match your old key from the dealer. As far as installation, its not for a beginner, takes a bit of know-how but It can be done 'shady tree machanic style' if you have the will and patience.

Another bit of advice, replace the ignition before your key wont go in the ignition at all OR will go in and not turn. Once this happens the job gets a little more tricky, and if you have a dealer do it at this point you might be looking at $700 plus bill to fix it.

Good luck,

-M

I had to special order the cable that goes from the back of the key switch to the shift assembly. Mine is broken. So far that part is only $70. It will not be in until next week.

Do you have a DIY for replacing the tumbler? Thanks.