How to Remove a Mercedes Ignition Switch
by Alibaster Smith
The ignition switch in a Mercedes sends an electrical signal to the starter allowing the vehicle engine to function. Over time, the switch may begin to wear out. Once the switch fails, you won't be able to start your vehicle. Because newer Mercedes models also use laser-cut transponder keys, you may need to have your ignition key re-cut or reprogrammed depending on the model of Mercedes you have. The first step, of course, is to remove the old ignition switch.
Step 1
Adjust the Mercedes telescoping steering wheel to the maximum extended position (maximum out position).
Step 2
Move the front driver's seat to the rear-most position.
Step 3
Disconnect the negative battery cable by loosening the retaining nut on the negative battery cable clamp and sliding the clamp off the battery terminal.
Step 4
Remove the screws on the underside of the instrument panel cluster that hold the instrument cluster cowl in place and remove the cowl.
Step 5
Remove the four screws holding the instrument cluster in place and remove the instrument cluster from the dash. Make sure to remove the electrical connectors from the back of the instrument cluster before trying to completely remove the cluster.
Step 6
Turn the ignition key to the "I" position and remove the electrical plug in the back of the ignition switch. The switch should be exposed now that the cowl and instrument cluster have been removed. You will access the plug from the top of the ignition switch and cylinder assembly.
Step 7
Loosen, but do not remove, the Allen bolt on top of the ignition cylinder that mates with the steering column using an Allen wrench.
Step 8
Remove the two 13 mm bolts on top of the steering column. This will allow the steering column to drop down roughly 3 inches so that you can access the release button for the ignition switch.
Step 9
Press the release button on the steering column where the ignition cylinder enters the column.
Step 10
Turn the key to the "I" position and remove the ignition cylinder and switch assembly by pulling it out of the steering column.
Step 11
Remove the ignition wiring from the back of the ignition switch and cylinder assembly by pressing down on the release tab on the electrical connector and pulling it off the switch.
References
- "Mercedes-Benz C-Class: C230, C240, C280, C320, C350 Repair Manual 2001-2007;" Alan Alhstrand; 2008
Things You'll Need
- Socket wrench
- Socket set
- Phillips screwdriver
- Allen wrench
Writer Bio
I am a Registered Financial Consultant with 6 years experience in the financial services industry. I am trained in the financial planning process, with an emphasis in life insurance and annuity contracts. I have written for Demand Studios since 2009.
