The ignition lock of a car is an important part of the vehicle. If it does not function properly, it can not only lead to inconvenience, but also to expensive repairs. In this blog, we will discuss the car brands that often experience ignition lock problems, with a special focus on Mercedes. In addition, we will discuss the expected repair costs, duration of the repair and why it is often smarter to have your ignition key repaired instead of replacing the ignition lock completely.
Common Car Brands with Ignition Lock Problems
Below is a list of some car brands that are known for their ignition lock problems:
Volkswagen (VW)
- Models: Almost all models.
- Years of construction: 1998-2018.
- Problem: Key turns with difficulty or not at all. Ignition lock may be worn or seized.
- Repair costs: €200 - €400.
- Repair time: 2 to 4 hours.
Opel
- Years of construction: 2000-2015.
- Problem: Key does not turn properly or gets stuck.
- Repair costs: €150 - €350.
- Repair time: 1 to 3 hours.
Ford
- Years of construction: 1995-2020.
- Problem: Key won't turn, especially in the Fiesta and Focus.
- Repair costs: €200 - €400.
- Repair time: 2 to 4 hours.
Renault
- Models: Espace, Megane, Laguna, Scenic, Sprinter.
- Years of construction: 1998-2018.
- Problem: Difficulty turning the key and malfunctions in the steering column lock.
- Repair costs: €250 - €450.
- Repair time: 2 to 5 hours.
Nissan
- Models: Including Qashqai, Juke, Micra.
- Years of construction: 2007-2014.
- Problem: Stuck keys or keys that are difficult to turn.
- Repair costs: €150 - €400.
- Repair time: 1 to 3 hours.
BMW
- Models: Including 3-series, 5-series, X5.
- Years of construction: 2005-2015.
- Problem: Starting problems due to the electronic steering lock or keys that are not recognized.
- Repair costs: €300 - €600.
- Repair time: 2 to 5 hours.
Fiat
- Models: Including Punto, 500, Panda.
- Years of construction: 2000-2013.
- Problem: Key gets stuck or has difficulty turning due to outdated mechanism.
- Repair costs: €150 - €350.
- Repair time: 1 to 3 hours.
Citroën and Peugeot
- Models: Citroën Jumper, C1, C4, C5, Peugeot 307, 308, Boxer.
- Years of construction: 2005-2012.
- Problem: Electronic malfunctions in the ignition lock or keys that no longer work.
- Repair costs: €200 - €450.
- Repair time: 2 to 4 hours.
Mercedes-Benz: Deeper Analysis of Ignition Lock Problems
Mercedes-Benz is known as a premium brand, but even these luxury vehicles are not free from ignition lock problems. In older Mercedes models, a defect in the electronic ignition lock, also known as the EZS (Elektronisches Zündschloss), is common .
Most Affected Models:
- Mercedes A-Class W169
- Mercedes B-class W245
- Mercedes C-class W202, W203, W204
- Mercedes CL W215
- Mercedes CLK W208, W209
- Mercedes CLS W219
- Mercedes E-class W210, W211, W212
- Mercedes G-Class W463
- Mercedes ML W164
- Mercedes R-Class W251
- Mercedes S-Class W220
- Mercedes SL W230
- Mercedes SLK W171
- Mercedes Vito W639, W447
- Mercedes Sprinter W906
Common Problems:
- Key not recognized: The ignition lock does not detect the key, caused by defective electronics in the EZS system.
- Key does not turn: Especially with older models, it can happen that the key no longer turns, causing the engine to not start.
- Immobiliser defective: The immobiliser is not working properly due to a communication error between the electronic ignition lock and the key.
Repair costs at Mercedes:
- EZS replacement: Between €800 and €1,500, depending on the model and year of manufacture.
- Repair time: 1 to 3 days.
The high costs at Mercedes are caused by the complexity of the EZS system. This system often requires both replacing the ignition and reprogramming the key, which entails additional time and costs.
Why You Should Have Your Ignition Key Repaired
Although replacing an ignition lock is often recommended, repairing your ignition key can be a much cheaper option. Often, the problem is not with the lock itself, but with the key or the electronic components within the key. By repairing or replacing just the key, you can avoid the high cost of replacing the entire ignition lock.
Cost of a new ignition key:
- Mechanical keys: €50 - €150.
- Electronic keys (with transponder): €150 - €400.
Having a key repaired instead of a complete replacement can reduce costs by as much as 50%, depending on the damage.
Cost of a new ignition lock
If it is necessary to replace the entire ignition switch, the cost will vary greatly depending on the make and model of the car. Here are some estimates:
- Volkswagen: €300 - €600.
- Opel: €200 - €500.
- Ford: €250 - €500.
- Renault: €300 - €550.
- Nissan: €250 - €500.
- BMW: €400 - €800.
- Fiat: €200 - €450.
- Citroën and Peugeot: €250 - €500.
- Mercedes-Benz: €800 - €1,500.
Conclusion
Ignition lock problems can be costly, especially with brands like Mercedes, BMW and Volkswagen where electronics play a major role. However, it is often more cost-effective to look at the key first before replacing the entire ignition. In many cases, a key repair can save you a lot of money and reduce the frustration of lengthy repairs.
Are you having problems with your ignition or key? Contact Car Key for a diagnosis and an affordable solution. We are happy to help you get your vehicle back on the road quickly and without high costs! Plan your repair request here now!