Mercedes Benz W124 Ignition lock cylinder replacement

Replacing the ignition lock cylinder is a great preventative maintenance item and it's very easy!
The part number for the cylinder is 126-460-02-04 and it includes one key.
You have to physically visit a Mercedes-Benz dealer to order the part because it's considered a "Theft-Relevant Part". You can show your drivers license, proof or registration, and then open a repair order with your service advisor.
This video shows how to do the replacement on a demo unit and then shows me replacing the real thing in my 1987 300D. Huge thanks to Gerry at 500Eboard for documenting the procedure very thoroughly. You can see that thread with detailed pictures and instructions here:
www.500eboard.co/forums/threa...
While you can custom make the tool, I believe it's worth having the right tool for the job. The tool used is by Baum Tools (part number 900-0059) and can be purchased here:
www.autohausaz.com/pn/BU-9000059

[@mftwohill51]

Thanks Brian. I haven't worked on these cars for years and your video was a great refresher.

[@bsclifton]

You're very welcome! Glad you found it useful 😃

[@alc11803]

Do they still make the assembly with your original key? I thought they stop making key assembly according to the VIN which means you don't have the original key. Unless they change their decision 🤔🤔

[@bsclifton]

They sure do make the assembly with the key! Try ordering the part number in person at the dealer. The key works great in all the doors, the trunk. Same as the original key, just new ignition lock assembly 🙂

[@danielreyes6225]

Appreciate your video, but as a w124 owner ( ive had 6 currently have a e300 1995 w 309k miles) i dont put any key ring hanging on that ignition. That is asking for trouble i have key on a detachable keyring w house keys..it’s an easy way to not stress deform ignition as you bounce on down the road …just my .02 . When i pulled it out the ignition came out and collar was obv loosened came out after. Also i woukd detach negative battery cable before doing this and avoid possible making a spark. My key was stamped w 124 prefix fron from mercedes so all keys work.,

[@rashadkhudaverdi6108]

Thank you but its not so easy.My key was left inside,and dont move😢

[@bsclifton]

ouch - that's unfortunate. Sometimes, you can get lucky and use a pair of pliers to force your key to turn. If you can eventually turn it to position 1, you definitely should get a new cylinder! You might need to cut it open

[@danielreyes6225]

My friend got stuck and had to get “medieval” on this sucker to remove, it’s ridiculously hardcore steel