key wont turn

can anyone help me figure out why my 2009 sprinter wont start. the headlights and dome light work, the battery is charged, key wont turn, no lights on dash.

The shift handle doesn't know it's in Park?

--dick
p.s.
http://www.diysprinter.co.uk/reference/2007-sprinter-service-information.pdf <-- 2007 service manual
http://www.diysprinter.co.uk/reference/2007-sprinter-wiring-information.pdf <-- wiring diagram

Do you hear a clicking sound when inserting the key into the IGN? That would be the first step, where the key is recognized and allows the IGN switch to turn.

Try to better describe the symptoms.


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Once AGAIN!
Dennis

https://sprinter-source.com/forum/showthread.php?t=74873

no clicking noise noticed.

If you have a different key try that.
No noise as key is inserted from either key ?
Steering lock bad ?
Issue in transponder system not recognizing key?
Don’t try and force key that won’t work!

It may sound stupid but....

Is there dirt built up on the key or on the bit where you insert it?

I'm very far from being an expert - but I'm sure I've read somewhere about issues where the (infra red?) light between key and vehicle was obstructed by dirt build up.

If nothing else, it's a quick thing to test and it won't cost you anything.

^^^^^^^^There is no infra red light involved in the key steering lock system.

Thanks showkey - I've learned something new!

Here are two possibilities for why the key won't turn:

- Do a forum search for the Sprinter EIS system which is an anti-theft feature of your van that can jam or stop working suddenly. See this very old thread: https://sprinter-source.com/forum/showthread.php?t=6885

- If you're not in Neutral or Park, or if the van thinks you're not in Neutral or Park, it won't let you turn the key. There's an electrical switch to detect this which may have failed, or the mechanical linkage between the shifter and the transmission may have come loose.