Key does not turn in the ignition

Hello my name is Dave.

There are a few common causes for this issue, the first would be that the steering wheel is binding the cylinder, try rocking the steering wheel and see if that frees up the lock. Another would be simply wear and a lot of times you can use a lock lubricant to free it up and get it working.

Here is a link to the one I prefer from Amazon:

Biodegradable-2300D/dp/B004FV4TNE/ref=sr_1_7?crid=2TCUMDB49PYKJ&keywords=lock+lube+spray&qid=1578399558&sprefix=lock+lube%2Caps%2C161&sr=8-7

Another issue I have encountered is a worn key and there is a reasonably good chance that having a copy made, I would recommend using a hardware store or another store that cuts them manually as I have found that the automatic ones don't usually work for this issue. If none of these options work unfortunately you will probably have to replace the ignition cylinder which is very difficult if you can't get the cylinder to turn, if you can manage to get the cylinder to turn but it is still binding I would recommend replacing the lock while it is still turning. If you can get it to turn you will need a special removal tool to change it, here is a link to one from Amazon for $10.99:

https://www.amazon.com/ITEQ-Ignition-Release-Mercedes-Removal/dp/B07HS1R18V/ref=asc_df_B07HS1R18V/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312280085431&hvpos=1o2&hvnetw=g&hvrand=7459180134483508663&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9009940&hvtargid=aud-801381245258:pla-571251795338&psc=1

Here are the instructions for changing the ignition lock:

1.1. On vehicles without drive authorization system - using claw-type wrench (020) (Special Tool 210 589 00 70 00), unscrew trim ring (36a) from the instrument panel.
2.1. On vehicles with drive authorization system - remove coil (L11) for transponder from lock cylinder,
3. Push sleeve (011) onto the cap (36b) and turn lock cylinder into position "1" with the key.
4. Unlock and remove lock cylinder by turning the cap (36b) counter clockwise through 90°.
5. Spay the outside of the lock cylinder (36) with lock cylinder grease and insert in the covering cap (36b).
6. Push in key (36c) through the cap (36b) as far as the stop in the lock cylinder (36). The tumbler must be drawn in fully.
7. Push lock cylinder (36) into the steering lock. The recesses (arrow) in lock cylinder (36) must align with the recesses in the steering lock (arrow).
8. Turn cap (036b) with sleeve (011) (Special Tool 202 589 00 14 00) approx. 90° clockwise until it locks in position delectably or audibly.
9. Turn key into position "0" and pull out/remove with the sleeve (011).
10.1. On vehicles without drive authorization system - using claw-type wrench (020), screw trim ring (36a) into the instrument panel.
11.1. On vehicles with drive authorization system - press coil (L11) for transponder onto lock cylinder.

I am also attaching the illustrations associated with the instructions.
Please keep us up to date on your progress and thank you for using 2CarPros!

Hello again,

Have you tried having a new key cut? If you have and it still won't turn then your options are limited, as you have said drilling it out is a task nobody would look forward to but unfortunately may be your only option. If this is the course of action you are faced with I would recommend getting high quality drill bits and take your time. I recommend using cobalt bits as they are very hard and cut well but aren't quite as fragile as carbide. Here is a link to an affordable set from Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/amoolo-Twist-Drill-Cobalt-Stainless/dp/B07RTMKQD7/ref=sr_1_8?crid=15719PYVIPD00&keywords=cobalt+drill+bit+set&qid=1578572091&sprefix=cobalt+%2Caps%2C186&sr=8-8

Take your time and step up the drill size one at a time, being as careful as possible not to bind the bit as they will shatter if they bind. Please let us know how it works out.

Hello again,

I have attached the instructions for the steering column removal. As for the instrument panel it just clips in place however they do show a special tool to grab it but I have just used 90 degree picks to grab around the cluster, if you're careful they usually aren't terribly stubborn. You will need to pull the steering wheel for the cluster to clear it and come out however I don't believe there are any advantages to removing the cluster in order to get the column out. I hope this helps you get your car moving and again thank you for using 2CarPros!