2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class - Won't take the key

The vehicle ignition is not accepting key and steering not turning and remain locked.

The ignition lock cylinder sounds like it’s broken. You’ll need to have the car towed to a mechanic.

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The key might be worn, do you have another you can try?

It’s a plastic key . . . it doesn’t wear out that way. But it can definitely fail

Do you hear a LOUD click when you insert the key . . . ?

If not, I’d try another key

You do have another key, correct . . . ?!

If the other key solves the problem, you know what you need to do . . . order another key from the dealership. You always need a spare key.

However . . . there is also a good chance you need the electronic ignition switch. There are often certain fault codes present which are a smoking gun, but you’ll need a scanner capable of retrieving them. Typically your cheapo $50 code reader won’t be able to retrieve those kind of codes