Mercedes-Benz S-Class Ignition Barrel Replacement Parts
Get quotes for a used or replacement Mercedes-Benz S-Class ignition barrel. Genuine second hand parts from UK vehicle dismantlers - free request, breakers with stock reply direct.
Enter your registration or select your vehicle
Find the right part faster and get quotes direct from UK breakers - free, and no obligation.
What to check when buying a used Mercedes-Benz S-Class ignition barrel
A used ignition barrel that fits one vehicle won't always fit another - even within the same model range. These questions help breakers match stock to your exact vehicle before they quote:
- State if you need it complete with keys
Other used Mercedes-Benz S-Class parts
- Used Mercedes-Benz S-Class Wiper Motor
- Used Mercedes-Benz S-Class Alloy Wheels
- Used Mercedes-Benz S-Class Radio
- Used Mercedes-Benz S-Class Battery
- Used Mercedes-Benz S-Class Air Filter
- Used Mercedes-Benz S-Class Fuel Filter
- Used Mercedes-Benz S-Class Front Bumper
- Used Mercedes-Benz S-Class Door Card
- Used Mercedes-Benz S-Class Indicator Light
- Used Mercedes-Benz S-Class Roof Panel
- Used Mercedes-Benz S-Class Wishbone
- Used Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sump
Used ignition barrel for other Mercedes-Benz models
Fitment questions
Does the Mercedes-Benz S-Class have a traditional ignition barrel?
Most S-Class models up to the W221 generation (2005–2013) used a conventional ignition barrel that you physically turn with a key. From the W222 generation (2013–2020) onwards, Mercedes moved to a push-button start system, so those cars do not have a traditional ignition barrel at all. If you have a W222 or later S-Class, you are likely looking for a different component such as the EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) or steering column switch cluster — confirm exactly what you need with a breaker against your registration.
Will a W220 S-Class ignition barrel fit a W221 S-Class?
The W220 (1998–2005) and W221 (2005–2013) are separate generations with different steering column and lock assemblies, so the ignition barrels are not a straight swap. Even within each generation there can be differences depending on whether the car has a KESSY (keyless entry) option fitted. Always confirm compatibility with the breaker using both your registration and the donor vehicle's registration before buying.
Does it matter which engine my W221 S-Class has when buying a used ignition barrel?
Engine variant does not directly determine which ignition barrel is fitted — what matters more is the generation (W221), the steering lock module type, and whether your car has keyless start or a conventional key system. A diesel S350d and a petrol S500 from the same W221 generation will generally use the same barrel assembly. Confirm the exact part number with the breaker against your registration to be sure.
Does the trim level affect which ignition barrel I need — for example, does an AMG Line or SE spec change anything?
Trim level does not affect ignition barrel fitment on the S-Class — an SE, AMG Line, or L (long-wheelbase) variant from the same generation will use the same barrel type. You may find cosmetic differences in the surrounding trim or key design, but the barrel itself is trim-agnostic. Focus on the generation and any keyless-entry specification rather than trim when sourcing from a breaker.
My S-Class is a 2012 plate — is that W221 or W222, and what does that mean for the ignition barrel?
A 2012 registration puts you in the W221 generation, which ran from 2005 to 2013, so your car will have a traditional key-operated ignition barrel. The W222 did not go on sale in the UK until 2013, bringing the push-button start system with it. This means a used W221 ignition barrel is the correct type to be searching for, though you should still have the breaker verify the exact specification against your registration.
Can I source a used ignition barrel for a W221 S-Class from a breaker, and are there any checks I should ask them to do?
Yes, used ignition barrels for the W221 (2005–2013) are commonly available from UK breakers who dismantle S-Class cars. Ask the breaker to match the part by registration or chassis number, and check whether the barrel comes with the matching ECU or EIS unit, as Mercedes ignition systems are often paired electronically and may need coding to your car. A reputable breaker should be able to advise on whether the part needs programming before it will work in your vehicle.