Vehicle price comparison
Mercedes S Class vs Ford Explorer Ignition Switch prices
Saurabh Kumar
Co-Founder & CTO, Part Price Guide
Built the pricing pipeline that collects and normalizes used OEM part listings from salvage yards and online marketplaces across the US.
Ambika Sharma
Co-Founder & COO, Part Price Guide
12 years of project management and technical operations experience. Reviews price guides for sample size, fitment accuracy, and data freshness.
Price face-off
Median price comparison
Condition comparison
How does the price differ by part grade?
Market analysis
Why does the Ford Explorer ignition switch cost more?
A used Ford Explorer ignition switch carries a median asking price of $100, which is 0% higher than the Mercedes S Class at $100. Supply also plays a role: Mercedes S Class has 2,031 priced listings versus 851 for Ford Explorer, and more listings generally mean more choices and more competitive pricing.
Grade A (excellent condition) parts make up 87% of Mercedes S Class listings compared to 65% for the Ford Explorer, so buyers looking for top-condition units will find more options on the Mercedes S Class side.
The Mercedes S Class average ($130) runs 30% above its median ($100), indicating a tail of high-priced listings — likely low-mileage or remanufactured units pulling the average up.
Our guide covers 11 model years for the Ford Explorer (2015–2025) but only 9 for the Mercedes S Class (2015–2023), so the Ford Explorer data reflects a broader range of generations.
The Ford Explorer ignition switch is interchangeable across 22 model years versus just 10 for the Mercedes S Class — that wider compatibility window means more donor vehicles in salvage yards and tends to push prices lower.
Buyer's checklist
What to check before buying a used ignition switch
- Determine if the unit includes the mechanical lock cylinder with matching keys, or if it is purely the electrical ignition switch contact block.
- Match key transponder chip frequency (Passlock, PATS, or RFID) and verify if anti-theft relearn or key programming tools will be required.
- Inspect wire harness pigtail connectors for burnt plastic or loose female spade terminals caused by ignition circuit overload.
- Verify key cylinder positions (Accessory, Off, Run, Start) turn smoothly without sticking, binding, or requiring key jiggling.
Full price guide
Mercedes S Class Ignition Switch
$35 – $384 · 2,031 listings
Full price guide
Ford Explorer Ignition Switch
$25 – $360 · 851 listings
Common questions
Mercedes S Class vs Ford Explorer ignition switch FAQ
Is a used Mercedes S Class ignition switch cheaper than a Ford Explorer?
Both guides have the same median. The Mercedes S Class ignition switch ranges from $35 to $384 across 2,031 listings, while the Ford Explorer ranges from $25 to $360 across 851 listings.
Can I use a Mercedes S Class ignition switch in a Ford Explorer?
This comparison describes pricing, not interchangeability. Even when two parts share similar prices, they may require different engines, trims, electronics, or mounting points. Always match the seller's part number against your VIN before purchasing.
How many listings does this comparison cover?
This comparison draws from 2,031 priced Mercedes S Class listings and 851 priced Ford Explorer listings — 2,882 in total.
How does condition grade affect the price?
Part condition significantly impacts price. Grade A (Excellent): Mercedes S Class $100 vs Ford Explorer $99. Grade B (Good): Mercedes S Class $119 vs Ford Explorer $100. Grade A parts are in excellent condition, B is good, and C is fair — always confirm grading criteria with the seller.
Are there different trim variants to choose from?
Yes. The Mercedes S Class ignition switch has 1 trim variant and the Ford Explorer has 2. Variants differ by engine size, drivetrain, or part number — matching the right variant is critical for proper fitment.
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