How to Repair / Fix Stuck Ignition Key - Mercedes (worn tumbler replacement)

[@martinmcintosh8201]

Excellent! This video was exactly what I needed to solve this problem! Getting the key to turn to 'position one' was the primary challenge... wiggling, twisting, tugging, turning... When that finally happened, your video made all the rest become very simple. Thanks!

[@nbanba9856]

My key wouldn't turn at all and the steering wheel was locked. I tried nearly two hours wiggling/vibrating the key, brute force with pliers, hammer, not putting the key all the way in. I was about to quit, when I thought this is the last try. I turned the key very vigorously back and forth clockwise and anticlockwise with pliers and turning the wheel at the same time. The bloody key turned and I can't even describe the feeling I had. Thanks to this video and mr bpetertube I saved at least 400€.

[@bishrobert]

Thank you for posting this video. Your analysis of the tumbler was very helpful for thoroughly understanding the problem. No other video out there is as clear as this one. Wife will now be able to drive her 2001 SLK again.

[@tonyarnold9784]

I have 2003 one and hope I can manage to!

[@jeevansingh3328]

This man is only the one man on youtube i called him troubleshooter one man nd all other stuff is garbage 🗑 really appreciate bro

[@mek0042]

If you want to avoid draining your battery, use a flat head screwdriver to return the switch to position zero once the mechanism is removed and put it back to position one before you reinstall. In my case, it revealed the problem was with the steering wheel lock mechanism and not the tumbler assembly. Helpful video, thanks for sharing!

[@agentjf36]

Having this problem myself now, and I know it’s the steering wheel lock. What did you do in order to solve that problem????

[@mek0042]

@@agentjf36 replaced the wheel locking assembly. Transferred the old cylinder to the new assembly and everything worked like new.

[@nzuncovered1845]

​@@mek0042I'm having the same problem.. how did you fix it? My key won't turn and steering lock won't disengage ?? Please help

[@ramesjm]

An absolute fantastic video. I now know why you cut away while trying to get the damn key to position 1!!! LOL. Here were my steps to fill in that gap: 1. Couple small squirts of liquid wrench. Push the key in and out about a 100 times. Violently try to turn shake and turn about a 100 times. Nothing. 2. Vacuum out key hole with straw. Violently try to turn shake and turn about a 100 times. Nothing. 3. Carb cleaner squirted in. Push the key in and out about a 100 times. Violently try to turn shake and turn about a 100 times. Nothing. 4. Put valet key in and shoved orbital sander on end and side while trying to turn. Nothing. 5. Walk away mad. 6. Walk back and violently try to turn shake and turn about a 100 times. Moved to position 1!!! 7. Ordered new tumbler. 8. Put band-aids on my knuckles

[@bpetertube]

You are correct. It required really a lot of patience. I am glad the video was helpful :).

[@MarketingMedic]

OMG - you duplicated my method precisely!!! LOL! #truepainintheass

[@WillHart423]

So once you get it to position 1, it just pulls right out?

[@MarketingMedic]

@@WillHart423 If you DON'T get it into position 1, on in my case if your mechanic just decides to drill it out, you end up with a monster repair bill. My insurance company just totalled my 1996 C220 because my mechanic hacked up my dash and it costs $2100 to replace and overall nearly $3700 to repair the damages that come with cutting out the ignition switch and housing assembly.

[@mixerflaimed5543]

Pam Carpenter can you explain how you went about drilling it out please

[@makhosinomawa7885]

First of all thank you for the nicely explained video easy to follow and understand. On my W202 1996 the key didn't turn on the, I saw your comments on not turning it off again if you manage to turn it now I'm needing to order and replace it cold.. as it eventually broke, half the key is stuck in the actual tumbler. I will have to jimmy it with a screwdriver and hammer I guess. Thanks again. Cheers from South African.

[@firdausravindar977]

Thanks for posting this valuable video for old Mercedes owners.😊

[@lulink99]

I would like to point out that disconnecting the battery with the ignition turned on can damage the engine control module. The correct sequence should be: 1. Disconnect the battery 2. Turn the Key to position 1 3. Remove tumbler Do NOT turn the lock without the tumbler installed as it could damage the assembly! If you need to replace the complete module, do this as well: 4. Disconnect the plug from the ignition switch 5. Unscrew and remove the ignition switch from the lock assembly 6. Unscrew the clamp that fastens the lock assembly to the steering column 7. Push the pin on the lock assembly and pull it out of the steering column. You may need to rotate and move it around to get it out For automatic transmission cars only: If you buy a lock assembly at Mercedes, it comes without the plastic cam that unlocks the shifter. You need to get these parts from you old lock assembly and put it in the new one, otherwise you are unable to take the transmission out of the parking position. Please be careful, I will not be responsible for anything you do.

[@EndofUSA]

Thanks for your very clear and helpful video instructional!!! Awesome. Compared to others that only waste your time watching!!

[@paulvanderweegen7624]

Great information, Knowing how the barrel all locks together allowed me the chance to get the key to turn once and then dismantle it. Thank you

[@bishrobert]

Just a little follow-up: I successfully removed the old ignition tumbler, but noted that it didn't look worn, and the pins (or wafers, as they are also called) were aligned just fine with the cylinder. I installed the new tumbler, which I had to purchase from the local M-B dealer. (You have to bring your title and ID for them to order the part. New tumbler, cover and extra key set me back $180) Being a little skeptical given the condition of my original tumbler, I did not install the cover and tried the ignition. It worked, but the next time I tried it, it was stuck again! As it turned out, installing a new tumbler did nothing! Replacing the steering lock housing is the next logical step, and getting to it was more than I am in the mood for, since that involves removing the steering wheel and the complications that come with it. So I fiddled with the key for half an hour, got the car started, and had the local M-B dealer take a look, and they agreed that I need a new steering lock housing. However, since they (against my clear warning) turned the car off, they say that they need to replace the steering lock and tumbler. All for a mere $1690. If anyone is in my situation, find a certified M-B mechanic and steer clear of the dealers.At least the independent mechanic will listen to you and not lock up your steering wheel and charge you to drill out the tumbler.

[@1btuasonmd]

You emphasized clearly, the details, Just awesome.! Thanks so much.

[@bpetertube]

I am glad to hear this video was helpful.

[@gadm7301]

Thank you very much sir. i have watched your video carefully and i did it my self. Very clear indeed. Now it is very easy to me to replace it my self. Thanks

[@jennyt.1200]

You are totally awesome! I have not seen such a great video tutorial and you gave me hope to try this myself. Thank you!!!!

[@youtoobe169]

Excellent video. The tumble makes perfect sense now!

[@gamure]

Hey Just wanna say thank you for the video. It was very helpful getting the tumbler out of my Old MB this morning. Peace

[@bpetertube]

You are welcome. I am glad you found the video helpful.

[@LVLEE]

wonderful detailed guidance!

[@Lightfoot40]

Thank you so much for this video, it helped me out a great deal....thank you!

[@billramsey7455]

You did an amazing job on this video. Thanks so much

[@OnceIHadAPony]

Just what I was looking for, Good job mate. Good quality.

[@alilakaf6814]

Hello sir thank you for your great tutorial I have a big problem with the key dosen't turn on 1st position. Pls any adea to fix the problem

[@nicholasclinger1737]

I'm having difficulty removing tumbler cover with key in the #1 position?? Your video is very Well done 👍 I'm just not tweaking the cover right???

[@matthewburns7351]

How does the cover come off with the tumbler? It's not shown in the video. Thanks

[@oliverg.201]

Very helpful, thank youBut you do not have to buy a new lock, just file down the tumblers that stick out when the key is inserted, what sticks are the ones that stick out when the key is in it, dremel or file them down so they are flush, clean and lube and put back in, works like a charm.All together took me about 45 min. and now I do not have do worry no more to get stranded somewhere.

[@limpiditymuzik648]

Do you know if this removal will work for the 1996 W140?

[@bpetertube]

Your approach is definitely another option. By filing down the wafers more "other" keys may be able to start your car. I considered it as well and then decided to just buy a replacement tumbler.

[@jorgetoledo8217]

Thank you very much, awesome!!!

[@oldporkchops]

I'm still unable to rotate my key on my W202 to position 1. What tricks did you do to rotate it to position 1?

[@joewellborn802]

Excellent video, thank you!!

[@cfagil]

Very detailed video with the aim to help other KZbinrs. Many thanks. I have a E280 1996 (W210)which just developed the infamous jammed steering lock problem. First I could not turn the key but after a few tries, I could turn the key and even start the car. However, the steering lock still remained in lock position. I wonder if your technique can be used to start my "unlocking the steering lock" project?

[@bpetertube]

I recommend you replace the tumbler as soon as possible. You will save yourself a lot time and potentially money. In my case, I was able to turn the tumbler after a few tries only the first time after the initial problem occurred. The next time it took hours (I am not exaggerating) of attempts to get it turned. The tumbler turns the electrical switch that is integrated that may also be worn out in your case. However, if you get the tumbler replaced now if you need to take it apart one more time to just replace the electric component, your project will not be blocked by the stuck tumbler.

[@cfagil]

@@bpetertube Many thanks. I am not sure if the technique you suggested would work on a W210. Will research into how the tumbler can be taken out from a W210.

[@cfagil]

@@bpetertube I managed to take the tumbler out. Now I understood that Position 1 is the first position when one turns the key closewise in the normal engine starting procedure. The surrounding cylinder was removed by turning it 90 degree anticlockwise. On a W210 (E Class), the cylinder has a flat section to allow a pair of piers to get a grip. The next section of my project is to figure out how to unlock or replace the steering lock unit. I wonder if you know if the steering lock on a W210 is controlled electrically or mechanically? So far from what I can see, the inside of the barrel casing looks very similar to yours in the video. Many Thanks to your video. It does help with my project.

[@Giangypd]

@@cfagil Hi, have you been able to change tumbler on your W210? I've a similar problem on mine, thanks

[@mixerflaimed5543]

So I’m having this same problem. Will start if it shake key really hard. My question let’s say if I can manage to get tumbler out how to take out wafers? Or would it be easier to file them down some how. I can’t get the tumbler out by the way just asking in case I do idk if I don’t have it in right position or the tumbler is stuck. Would really appreciate the help

[@tony1savagetv572]

at 9:46 where the white yellowish plastic piece is on the right, what's that mechanism for? What if it was accidentally removed when removing the tumbler? I have a 1994 Mercedes c220 and the ignition locked up and so did the steering wheel, well at the point I was in , what was the worst that could happen, right. well I hammered a flat head screwdriver into the ignition and cranked the vise grips down and started chunking out the tumbler piece by piece well that came off when I got half of the tumbler out.

[@greatestytcommentator]

Just a quick point.... On my c220 with the ir key.. If your battery is completely flat, the ignition key is locked mechanically.. This may save you an hour of your life.

[@schachat01]

Excellent video! What lubrication do you recommend to apply to all the relevant components before inserting the new tumbler?

[@bpetertube]

You will want something dirt and dry resistant. Do not use anything that will attract dust and dirt as you will be worse off when the dirt accumulates. I used graphite powder but it was messy (but I would not add anything if the ignition tumbler already turns well). I would be interested in hearing comments from others about what they use.

[@maurorinaldi1392]

Davvero bravissimo, spiegazione davvero perfetta BRAVO. Ho un dubbio visto che c'è antifurto sulla chiave, tutte immagino, se metto questa chiave poi telecomando, dove metterlo? È chiave che si apre e ha il tasto x chiusura portiere, antifurto Che fare, ho problema che non parte, non da impulso motorino avviamento Non vado MB,mi costerebbe ...CONSIGLI X FAVORE . GRAZIE DA BG ITALIA

[@lulink99]

If the control lamps on your rearview mirror are blinking green, most likely the pin that comes out of the lock assembly and rotates the switch has broken. To diagnose this, do the following: 1. Disconnect the battery 2. Turn the Key to position 1 3. Remove tumbler Do NOT turn the lock without the tumbler installed as it could damage the assembly! 4. Disconnect the plug from the ignition switch 5. Unscrew and remove the ignition switch from the lock assembly You should see that the pin is damaged. I wrote a different comment on how to change the complete lock assembly. Please be careful, I will not be responsible for anything you do.

[@soniavaz9849]

Hi there Sir. O have a question o change the tumbler 1 Year ago but now a new I got a new problem I inserto the key and the key turnos no problem but the 3rd Last position when I try to Stratford the engine the key doente turn completar in the 3rd position so nothing happens and I cant start the emgine I Wonder if I buy a new tumbler fix the problem or I have to buy the iginition switch module too

[@lulink99]

You should disconnect the battery, turn the ignition switch to position 1, disconnect the ignition switch plug from the switch and unscrew the switch itself. If there are pieces falling out, you need the complete module. The weak point of that system is the mechanical pin that turns the switch, I had the same problem on my 1995 C220. If the pin is intact, you just need a new ignition switch.

[@vasco8965]

Ive got a diferent issue my key turns first second even 3rd position the last one doesnt tuen corrwctly because it wont turn on the car if i change my tumbler can ijsolve this problem? Like you did in yours

[@nzuncovered1845]

Ignition switch seems like your issue

[@shil.e30]

Hi I have tried but the key just would not turn into position one, I have only sprayed wd40 but just no luck, any guidance please do let me know.

[@Pgtaufeq]

Do your mercy have immo?

[@mcm730]

Our tumbler is locked solid. Will not turn. Is there another way to get it out?

[@nzuncovered1845]

Having same problem. Did you manage to get it out?

[@armindosilva5752]

How so you managed to turn the key? In my case I can't turn my key ti the first position help me please how can I turn to first position

[@bpetertube]

Hi Armindo. That is the part that took a very long time and a lot of tries. I mentioned in the video some of the approaches I tried and after a lot of attempts one finally worked. As you can see in the video, the problem is the slight wear causing the wafer to get stuck when turning the tumbler (so some vibration, shaking the key, using spare keys that have less wear, etc are some methods but they will all take a lot of attempts) . Also, see the comments in this comments sections from others about what worked for them.

[@amgjens]

I have no problem turning the key, but when i turn it over to start the engine it doesn't respond immediately. It takes like half a second. Yesterday it didn't respond at all and i had to turn the key back and forth for it to finally crank. What part of the lock is failing?

[@MrTheDays1]

Can you turn the car on if u happen to drill the tumbler out and stick a screwdriver while I wait for the parts? 3 to 4 days

[@bpetertube]

Yes, you should be able to turn the car on with the tumbler removed. If you plan to throw away your old tumbler, you can also remove all of the wafers from it and reinstall it until the replacement tumbler arrives. Please note that with the wafers removed any key will start the car.

[@romeparrilla8307]

HI PETER,I DO NOW HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM,MY QUESTION IS WHICH POSITION IS # 1,IS IT ON ACCESORIES OR ON POSITION?THANK YOU

[@bpetertube]

ROME PARRILLA Position #1 is approximately 90° clockwise. I don’t recall exactly, but I believe that’s the accessories position.

[@rodmarques3226]

I was able to get the black tumbler cover off without the key being in the lock at position 1. Dont ask super long story. I did not cut it off or damage it. The question is how do I get the tumbler out. The key will go in but not turn. Thank you

[@trylox7359]

How did you do it pls

[@armindosilva5752]

I try everything to turn the key in first position and nothing happens. I think have to destroy it completely by drilling and or bashing but I don't know how to do it can somebody help me

[@jaycorrigal1207]

did you need to swap the waivers and add them too the new tumbler?

[@bpetertube]

I replaced the entire tumbler. I ordered it at the Mercedes dealership using the vehicle VIN and the vehicle title.

[@brickwal92tt]

So there is no way to repair the tumbler yourself? Are these like disposable lighters or can these be repaired vs. replaced?

[@tonyarnold9784]

i read a guy in a Merc forum saying that he did get his repaired by a locksmith, but not certain how many locksmiths are able to do so

[@tukinorakei563]

hi my ignition is stuck and can't rotate at all what method did you use to get it to turn mine is stuck and won't move at all please help

[@bpetertube]

Tukino, I tried multiple items that I described in the post below. Adub408 asked the same question. What ultimately worked for me was *gently* tapping on the back of the key with a small hammer while trying to turn the key.

[@TerranceDixonSr.-we1qg]

96 Mercedes ignition tumbler shroud stuck

[@sauddaham]

What if my key is lost and I'm trying to change the cylinder...please help

[@bpetertube]

You will need to go to the Mercedes dealer and provide the proof of ownership and your ID and potentially other information. They will create a replacement key for you and a replacement cylinder if you need one as well.

[@nzuncovered1845]

​@@bpetertubeHave you not heard of a Locksmith?

[@NORTH_HWD]

Does the key or anything need to be programmed

[@bpetertube]

For the vehicle shown in the video (model year 1996), the tumbler replacement is a solely mechanical procedure and does not require you to reprogram the key.

[@NORTH_HWD]

@@bpetertube thank you

[@makhosinomawa7885]

@@bpetertube Hi I stupidly asked the same question and only after sorting the comments I found the answer to the same question. Thanks mate.

[@joycelewiscagle]

Thank you but my key still will not turn at all

[@ParthPatel-zy4pg]

how much does mercedes charge to install new tumbler and key?

[@bpetertube]

The price for the replacement tumbler is approx $100. The labor depends on if your tumbler is stuck or not. If it is stuck, the total price with labor may be close to $1000. If it is not stuck, it is a 30 minute job.

[@hjjjnjkjgh1203]

Thanks 👍👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏💪💪💪🇱🇾

[@vladimirzahov4677]

what to do if i cant put the key into possition 1???

[@bpetertube]

Vladimir, it required a lot of patience. Someone asked the same question a while ago. Here is my reply to that same question and what I tried to finally make it work. It was quite time consuming as I tried multiple items. I tried different spare keys that have not been used much. The idea was that they have less wear and will better compensate for the combined wear of they key and the tumbler wafers The other approach I tried was applying a thin coat of nail polish to the key to build up some of the areas of wear. That did not work either. I tried applying vibration to the back of the key while turning the key, also with no success. What ultimately worked for me was gently tapping on the back of the key with a small hammer while trying to turn the key. I have seen posts online where methods that I described earlier worked for others. In my case it was tapping on the back of the key. All of this took quite a bit of time that would not be economical for the dealer due to their hourly rate. The alternative is unfortunately a lot more involved job. I hope this helps. Good luck.

[@vladimirzahov4677]

bpetertube it require a 6mm drill and 20 minutes

[@bpetertube]

Vladimir, I am glad you got it fixed. Can you post additional details that others may find helpful (any specifics about how you approached the drilling and what you did to not damage the parts beyond the tumbler) . It is always good to have multiple options to solve the problem.

[@alvariho2365]

@@vladimirzahov4677 can you tell me about cause i can't Turn the Key I have 1997 c230

[@norbfer97f99]

My key doesnt rotate how i take it of

[@bpetertube]

See the comments in this thread for ideas about what others have tried. I described in the video what worked for me. It required a lot of retries to turn the key.

[@carlosstansbury7135]

You skipped the most important part, how to get the ignition out!

[@iymind6785]

Hi Sir, good job and good video, I have the same model E320 and 1996 model, it has the same problem, the key can't turn and I can't start the car. Can you send me your direct email or WhatsApp so we can communicate further? I need a new replacement, thanks. Awaiting your response.

[@Сталь-я8б]

Как всегда выручили

[@erkejenis6839]

Қазақшасы керек еді?

[@ammaralqaise5807]

It 000000000000.1 to get key 102M But I have it at 🇮🇶 😅