How do you replace the ignition swithch on 1988 190e The steering is lock and turing the wheel is not helping?

Answer 1

you need a good manual (haynes is fine) for this job. i could try to explain it but even after seeing the photos and drawings in the manual i had to take it apart to understand.

short version: remove instrument panel; remove kick panel above driver's legs; remove steering wheel; remove plastic trim cover behind steering wheel under steering column. turn key to 1st (ACC) position and THEN reaching through instrument panel opening, pull wiring harness off back of switch. through instrument panel opening, remove pinch bolt in clamp holding ignition lock to steering column. press and hold spring loaded button that was hidden under clamp and wiggle lock assembly away from column slightly. pry off trim ring around where the key goes in the lock. make sure key is again at 1st position, then stick 2mm dia wires into the 2 little holes opposite each other in rim around keyhole. pull out lock tumbler with key. rotate entire ignition lock assembly as required and pull away from steering column. reach through key opening in dash and pull off electrical connection as it becomes visible. pull vacuum hoses off lock assembly on left. you will swear the assembly won't fit past to come out but it will, barely.

I came across this problem on my dads '87 190e 2.6. To remove the barrel assembly it is necessary to be able to turn the key to the first position to insert the U shaped 2mm wire, however, if the steering lock is jammed up it is NOT possible. The only solution we could find is to cut the assembly in half where the 3 rivets hold the steering lock bolt and ignition barrel/switch parts together with a junior hacksaw and completely replace the unit.