1999 Mercedes ML 320 will not unlock

JIMHANKES

MEMBER
1999 MERCEDES BENZ ML320
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
150,000 MILES

My 1999 Mercedes Benz ML 320 has been sitting on my driveway in Chicago for 5 weeks since I last drove it. Now I can't unlock the car, the key fob won't unlock the car and the key turns in the lock but doesn't unlock the door. What are my options? Help!
Thank you.

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

It sounds like the battery is dead. However, that doesn't explaine the key not opening the door. Are both doors doing the same thing with the key?

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Saturday, January 22nd, 2011 AT 5:23 PM

JIMHANKES

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Thanks for the reply. The only door with a key lock is the driver door. How do I charge the battery if I can't get in the car to open the hood?

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Saturday, January 22nd, 2011 AT 6:43 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

(please understand that I am assuming the FOB battery is good). You have one of two choices. One, tow the vehicle to an autobody shop where they have experience opening them as a result of damage. Or two, try to do it yourself (not easy). The manufacturer's design the vehicles to make it difficult. However, if you take a long screwdriver, a flash light, and some time, you may get lucky. From the grill of the vehicle, locate where the hood release cable attaches to the hood latch. Identify which direction the cable pulls the release. With a long screwdriver, try to move the release lever so the hood opens.

It sounds easier than it is, but it can be done.

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Saturday, January 22nd, 2011 AT 10:25 PM