kknowles

Sorry in advance, I cant scroll to w202 forum on my comp. I purchased a used 1999 c230 kompressor and it has been a great car. Recently my key was stolen from my work vehicle. I figured no problem I,ll just order a new one from my local MB dealer. When my key came in I was given a blade door key and informed that all 8 possible key combinations have been used for this car. I was given two options #1 pay 3,000 dollars to change the ecu and ignition, or #2 to put my car in their shop and have it hooked to a computer so a tech can delete key #8 and program a new key (WHICH THEY CANNOT GUARANTEE WILL WORK)

My question is: can the second process be done? if not, is there a way of avoiding replacing perfectly good parts just because I need a key?

Russell Ormerod

I very much doubt option 2 is possible at a dealer. The Eis has 8 key rails but there are 2 types of keys on each rail. One is called a replacement key the other is known as an addition key. If all replacement keys are used up which you are able to see on the diagnostics. The dealer should be able to order an additional key for you.

Russell Ormerod

Sorry I meant to say additional key!

kknowles

Yes I have been reading online that there is one additional key for each key rail. I am going to ask my MB dealer about that because I highly doubt a total of 16 keys made for this car.

Russell Ormerod

You right. Very unlikely usually at worst we need to order key 5 or 6. Even all 8 used is unlikely

kknowles

We'll the process was a success and I'm back on the road.

Russell Ormerod

There you go! Well done. What key number was ordered in the end?

kknowles

Turns out it was number 8. But there were additional key slots available. MB reprogrammed number 8 so I have the option of a spare on number 8 which isn't a bad idea. But for now I'm on the road again!

Russell Ormerod

Great!