Mercedes-Benz vans we cover
Send the registration so we can confirm the ignition fitted to your specific van.
About Mercedes-Benz ignitions
Several Mercedes vans use an electronic ignition switch, often called an EIS, which works together with the key rather than relying on a simple mechanical barrel. We repair and replace EIS units on supported Mercedes vans up to and including 2018. The Citan, which shares its basis with another manufacturer's van, is engineered differently again.
EIS coverage is separate from key programming. For keys, Sprinter models are covered up to 2018 excluding older bladed-key models, and Vito models up to 2014. Later FBS4 systems are not supported for either keys or ignition work. Coverage does not extend to every Mercedes model or system within these years, so send your registration and a description of the fault and we will confirm compatibility before any work is agreed.
Ignition options for Mercedes-Benz vans
- Mechanical ignition barrel repair or replacement — For vans with a key-turn ignition where the barrel is worn, sticking, seized or damaged.
- Electrical ignition switch replacement — The switch behind the barrel can fail on its own — the key turns but the electrical side does not respond properly.
- Electronic ignition (EIS) work — For vans that use an electronic ignition unit rather than a purely mechanical barrel, including some push-button systems.
- Broken key extraction from the ignition — Removing a snapped blade from the ignition without causing further damage, before a new key is made.
Whether your original key can be kept depends on the van and the fault — we try to keep it wherever possible. If a new key or programming is needed, we will tell you before starting.
Mobile service around Eastleigh
We attend Mercedes-Benz vans at home, at work or on site in Eastleigh and nearby areas. See all areas covered.
What we need for a quote
- Registration, model and year
- Where the van is
- What the ignition is doing, and whether the key turns
- Whether you still have a usable key
Related pages
Mercedes-Benz ignition questions
What is an EIS on a Mercedes van?
EIS stands for electronic ignition switch. It is the unit the key is inserted into on many Mercedes vans and it communicates electronically with the key and van.
Which Mercedes vans can you repair or replace the EIS on?
EIS repair and replacement is confirmed for supported vehicles up to and including 2018. It does not cover every Mercedes model or system in those years, and later FBS4 systems are not supported. Send your registration and fault details and we will confirm whether your van is covered.
Is EIS coverage the same as your key coverage?
No, they are confirmed separately. Sprinter keys are covered up to 2018, excluding older bladed-key models, and Vito keys up to 2014. EIS repair and replacement is confirmed for supported vehicles up to and including 2018.
My Sprinter key won't turn in the EIS — does it need replacing?
Not necessarily. Key faults and other issues can look the same. We diagnose the problem first and only recommend replacement where it is actually needed.