[W126 Coupe] HELP!

[Chris]

I think this is the advice I will follow. Replace the tumbler. 

The key is quite worn and it is the only one I have.

When I left work the ignition would not budge again. I moved the key in and out to get things working. 

I spent a few years working in service at an Olds dealership when I was young and had the opportunity to work on ignition locks, small pieces in a tumbler. It is easy to see how they can wear out over time.

Thanks for the advice,
Chris Schafer
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Mister McGoo 
  To: mbcoupes at mbcoupes.com 
  Sent: Thursday, April 07, 2005 12:00 AM
  Subject: Re: [W126 Coupe] HELP!






  Chris,

  I strongly suggest that you examine the ignition tumbler very carefully.  It is not likely "fixed" with lubrication, and unless that key has been getting slowly worse I would question whether a worn key will be the problem.  Usually a worn key will show up being difficult to operate the door first. To test this, if you have a second key, use that one for a while to see if it is better.  Use your valet key if you have one (the round one).  It is likely in better condition.

  If that key seems to "catch" and does not turn smoothly, or if you feel the slightest hint that the same problem is re-occuring, REPLACE THE TUMBLER ASAP!  You can do it yourself.  You can order a new tumbler keyed to your VIN, or you can buy a 123 ignition tumbler with a new key.  The latter is half the price but then your door and ignition keys are different.

  You may want to remove and examine the tumbler while you can still take it out.

  I CANNOT OVER-EMPHASIZE THIS.  If you cannot turn the ignition key to at least the first position (accessory) you will be faced with a very expensive destructive process to get your car started again.
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