SmartKey and Keyless-Go reprogramming
03-30-2016, 07:08 PM
#26
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2003 C230 K , 2001 ML320
On my 2003 C 230K Coupe I bought a key off eBay, took about a minute. If I remember right you put your working key in the slot, turn the car on.
Remove the key and put the replacement key in to the slot within 30 seconds and turn on. The car computer programs the key. The coupe doesn't come with a trunk unlock button, I put a sedan key in and now the trunk unlocks with the button.
Wife lost the sedan key so now I have to but another key and get it to work. Back in 2003-04 there were almost zero smart keys for sale, now there are thousands.
Remove the key and put the replacement key in to the slot within 30 seconds and turn on. The car computer programs the key. The coupe doesn't come with a trunk unlock button, I put a sedan key in and now the trunk unlocks with the button.
Wife lost the sedan key so now I have to but another key and get it to work. Back in 2003-04 there were almost zero smart keys for sale, now there are thousands.
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biker349 (01-28-2022)
04-12-2016, 08:18 PM
#28
I have a 2009 ML320 Bluetec (non Keyless-Go) and am looking to have a spare keyless remote. Has anyone tried this eBay vendor that sells VIRGIN Mercedes Smart keys that can supposedly be programmed for some of the later model cars?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/TRULY-VIRGIN...-/131708559422
Looks like it works like a traditional Smart Key once programmed, even for the Keyless Go cars.
For $80 seems like a deal as I really don't feel like paying $300 from the dealer for a spare one. Anyone with direct experience with buying and programming this virgin key?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/TRULY-VIRGIN...-/131708559422
Looks like it works like a traditional Smart Key once programmed, even for the Keyless Go cars.
For $80 seems like a deal as I really don't feel like paying $300 from the dealer for a spare one. Anyone with direct experience with buying and programming this virgin key?
Last edited by amg_w211; 04-12-2016 at 08:23 PM.
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biker349 (01-28-2022)
04-14-2016, 08:25 PM
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W209, W124
A. Someone needs to ask breaststroke or glenn s if this really and truly works
otherwise,
B. buying a key for $80 that needs a locksmith to "program" it for you is pretty likely to not be a better deal than getting one at dealer that has both parts working and new
otherwise,
B. buying a key for $80 that needs a locksmith to "program" it for you is pretty likely to not be a better deal than getting one at dealer that has both parts working and new
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biker349 (01-28-2022)
04-20-2016, 06:24 PM
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W209, W124
I guess I've been so dubious that I haven't even tried.
The only thing that gives me hope is that Chrysler/Dodge has a similar key in same era that DID allow programming in the ignition. AT first it required ONE working key first, then later it required the insertion of 2 keys. BUT...the key to be programmed had to be a virgin, BRAND NEW key. It just seems extremely unlikely that MB allowed this and nobody but breastroker noticed.
HOWEVER, note that he mentions the trunk button on new key worked to unlock hatch on C-Class. A guy I just transferred broken black 3 button into nice Chrome 4 button on his C-Class also reported that having the trunk button allowed his hatch to work remotely, not possible before. So breastroker's story has one interesting piece that sounds right.
The only thing that gives me hope is that Chrysler/Dodge has a similar key in same era that DID allow programming in the ignition. AT first it required ONE working key first, then later it required the insertion of 2 keys. BUT...the key to be programmed had to be a virgin, BRAND NEW key. It just seems extremely unlikely that MB allowed this and nobody but breastroker noticed.
HOWEVER, note that he mentions the trunk button on new key worked to unlock hatch on C-Class. A guy I just transferred broken black 3 button into nice Chrome 4 button on his C-Class also reported that having the trunk button allowed his hatch to work remotely, not possible before. So breastroker's story has one interesting piece that sounds right.
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biker349 (01-28-2022)
04-20-2016, 07:49 PM
#33
The only thing that gives me hope is that Chrysler/Dodge has a similar key in same era that DID allow programming in the ignition. AT first it required ONE working key first, then later it required the insertion of 2 keys. BUT...the key to be programmed had to be a virgin, BRAND NEW key. It just seems extremely unlikely that MB allowed this and nobody but breastroker noticed.
HOWEVER, note that he mentions the trunk button on new key worked to unlock hatch on C-Class. A guy I just transferred broken black 3 button into nice Chrome 4 button on his C-Class also reported that having the trunk button allowed his hatch to work remotely, not possible before. So breastroker's story has one interesting piece that sounds right.
HOWEVER, note that he mentions the trunk button on new key worked to unlock hatch on C-Class. A guy I just transferred broken black 3 button into nice Chrome 4 button on his C-Class also reported that having the trunk button allowed his hatch to work remotely, not possible before. So breastroker's story has one interesting piece that sounds right.
I don't necessarily care to have the physical internal cut key, and would rather have just the wireless remote key and have it working to start/stop/lock/unlock the car, since it will be used as a backup key. Even if I had to pay a locksmith $40-60 to use a key programmer, it would still be worth it to me.
04-20-2016, 09:17 PM
#34
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W209, W124
Here is the "key" to reading and seeing all you want about the Chrysler/Dodge keys.
FOBIK
Google that.
But I seriously doubt that the keys are the same, perhaps just similar tech.
Better still, PM breastroker
He is one of the below
1. Misremembering
2. A Guru who we will all owe much to (if he is right)
3. Hallucinating
A link to where he bought it and confirmation that it worked is what we need.
FOBIK
Google that.
But I seriously doubt that the keys are the same, perhaps just similar tech.
Better still, PM breastroker
He is one of the below
1. Misremembering
2. A Guru who we will all owe much to (if he is right)
3. Hallucinating
A link to where he bought it and confirmation that it worked is what we need.
Last edited by MacVidMB-V8; 04-20-2016 at 09:19 PM.
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biker349 (01-28-2022)
07-15-2016, 10:47 PM
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2012 GL550
2012 GL550 Smartkey
a few weeks ago my smartkey was acting up. it would not open my drivers door but when i touched the drivers rear door it would open all doors. then i noticed that all of a sudden after driving the vehicle when exiting it automatically closed all doors without a touch from me after several seconds. i was amazed and exited at the same time because i did not have to even do anything. after replacing the battery the closing doors function does not work anymore and i am so distraught. what is going on. someone please help because i am due for a schedule c service that is going to cost me an arm and a leg without asking the dealer to figure out what is going on with myut my key????????????
help please.
help please.
11-02-2019, 03:29 PM
#36
Senior Member
Seems like there are ebay vendors for a programmed fob without the keyless go function. They run about $150 to $200.
Some dealers claim to be able to erase a keyless go fob to be ready to be reprogrammed.
http://www.keylessremotewarehouse.co...no_c_p1034.htm
Any body use them? The returned is price less shipping and Handling less 20%.
One local locksmith said he might be able to do it downloading the codes from the car, decoding and with a working fob.
I ran across one that would order the fob from Mercedes at a discount, but can't find their website. they normally sell aftermarket, but on Mercedes keyless go fobs, they need to go to the factor. Their website got erased from my computer history. Anybody with a source?
Dave
Some dealers claim to be able to erase a keyless go fob to be ready to be reprogrammed.
http://www.keylessremotewarehouse.co...no_c_p1034.htm
Any body use them? The returned is price less shipping and Handling less 20%.
One local locksmith said he might be able to do it downloading the codes from the car, decoding and with a working fob.
I ran across one that would order the fob from Mercedes at a discount, but can't find their website. they normally sell aftermarket, but on Mercedes keyless go fobs, they need to go to the factor. Their website got erased from my computer history. Anybody with a source?
Dave
11-02-2019, 11:45 PM
#38
Senior Member
1. The regular fob Opens and locks door, trunk and panic button, key must be inserted in ignition (2009 e320 fob has two CR2025 batteries which last a long time). A site sell unlocked used ones.
2. Keyless-start: The above but can start car with pushing a button on ignition switch area
3. Keyless-go: #2 above plus can close and open windows and sunroof by touching sensor on exterior door handle, and will unlock door without touching the fob. (a battery hog. 2012 e350 has single CR2025 battery.)
Does anybody know if the latter two are unlockable?
MB Union, NJ wants $670 for just programmed fob and $760 for with a cut metal key. What are other dealers charging for the keyless go with metal key. Any trustworthy bargain sites for them?
01-12-2022, 02:37 AM
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2007 MERCEDES BENZ C230
01-12-2022, 02:46 AM
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2007 MERCEDES BENZ C230
Here's what I know of SmartKeys.
8 total key tracks. 3 total keys per track so effectively you can use 24 keys before replacement of the EIS is required.
Key tracks one and two will be the keys supplied with your vehicle and support all of the memory functions, etc. Any key from track 3-8 is an additional key.
When you replace the key, new key is programmed for the vehicle at the PDC. Once you insert the new key into the EIS, The eis itself recognizes the new data and the led on the key will illuminate. The eis will then erase the entire remaining starts/codes from the replaced key so that the new one will be active. The first thing you will notice is that the key will turn in the ignition. If you are able to depress the brake and remove the shifter from park, it is complete. Some cars display, 'computing data' in the cluster.
A replacement "additional" key will most likely be the first key of the given track so it will almost program immediately. In some cases, replacements of original keys require connecting a charger b/c it takes so long. Also, on older 220's they recommended using das the switch on circuit 15 of the ESM.
The "green key" just personalizes a new EIS. Meaning at the time of install, it gives the EIS, once installed and powered all of the vehicle specific data/VIN info. Well, not all of it. Specific components are then coded using SDS.
Keyless go chip cards are a nightmare to get to program most of the time. I don't know what the issue is... software or what. The KG smartkeys are not so bad....
Alright, now I just don't know what the hell I'm talking about.
8 total key tracks. 3 total keys per track so effectively you can use 24 keys before replacement of the EIS is required.
Key tracks one and two will be the keys supplied with your vehicle and support all of the memory functions, etc. Any key from track 3-8 is an additional key.
When you replace the key, new key is programmed for the vehicle at the PDC. Once you insert the new key into the EIS, The eis itself recognizes the new data and the led on the key will illuminate. The eis will then erase the entire remaining starts/codes from the replaced key so that the new one will be active. The first thing you will notice is that the key will turn in the ignition. If you are able to depress the brake and remove the shifter from park, it is complete. Some cars display, 'computing data' in the cluster.
A replacement "additional" key will most likely be the first key of the given track so it will almost program immediately. In some cases, replacements of original keys require connecting a charger b/c it takes so long. Also, on older 220's they recommended using das the switch on circuit 15 of the ESM.
The "green key" just personalizes a new EIS. Meaning at the time of install, it gives the EIS, once installed and powered all of the vehicle specific data/VIN info. Well, not all of it. Specific components are then coded using SDS.
Keyless go chip cards are a nightmare to get to program most of the time. I don't know what the issue is... software or what. The KG smartkeys are not so bad....
Alright, now I just don't know what the hell I'm talking about.
01-28-2022, 10:45 AM
#41
Newbie
Key not recognized
Been reading through post looking for a straight answer to the problem I'm having. At first my key would not turn in the ignition this happened intermittently good enough for me to get back home. Trying in driveway again would work intermittently, even started once from the push button start in the gear shift. But now getting key not recognized on dash display. I think it is something minor and am not looking to take to dealer unless absolutely last resolved. Battery is charged, all fuses are good. Key does not operate keyless entry or any other programmed function from key. Thinking key needs to be reprogrammed, praying the EIS has not failed. Can anyone advise what I can do. this is occurring in my CLS500, 2006. Besides changing tires and front air suspension have had no other issues with, bought new in 2007. Oh yeah, open key with key blade sets off the alarm, lights blinking but no audible sound.
Last edited by mmewms@aol.com; 01-28-2022 at 10:52 AM.
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biker349 (01-28-2022)
01-29-2022, 08:45 PM
#42
Super Member
One interesting thing with the Mercedes key is that that IR handshake that authenticates the key is powered by an inductive coil on the EIS. This is necessary to prevent you from being stranded if the key batteries run low. You use the mechanical key to unlock the door and then the start function is powered by the EIS.
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biker349 (07-04-2022)
01-29-2022, 09:55 PM
#43
Super Member
Been reading through post looking for a straight answer to the problem I'm having. At first my key would not turn in the ignition this happened intermittently good enough for me to get back home. Trying in driveway again would work intermittently, even started once from the push button start in the gear shift. But now getting key not recognized on dash display. I think it is something minor and am not looking to take to dealer unless absolutely last resolved. Battery is charged, all fuses are good. Key does not operate keyless entry or any other programmed function from key. Thinking key needs to be reprogrammed, praying the EIS has not failed. Can anyone advise what I can do. this is occurring in my CLS500, 2006. Besides changing tires and front air suspension have had no other issues with, bought new in 2007. Oh yeah, open key with key blade sets off the alarm, lights blinking but no audible sound.
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mmewms@aol.com (02-01-2022)
02-01-2022, 04:15 PM
#44
Newbie
02-02-2022, 03:38 PM
#45
Senior Member
I called a local dealer yesterday and they told me that they can REprogram ANY smart key with the same SEQUENCE for my car. They told me that the sequence makes this key compatible with my car and they CAN reprogram it. They said it will cost me one hour of labor which equated to $70. This, of course, does not cover the metal blade which is specifically cut for each car. I never use the blade anyways so I can get any blank and slide it into the housing to hook the key on my keyring.
My Opinion:
I think Benz is making up this crap that the keys have to be ordered to match your VIN. If this key can be programmed then I am sure that it can be reprogrammed. The whole idea of technology today is to make things easier and reusable. The idea of this key having to be ordered from the factory is not easier for us or Benz. I would even bet that the microchip in the smartkey can be reprogrammed. Benz is probably saying this to cover up their security glitch with this new smartkey technology.
My Opinion:
I think Benz is making up this crap that the keys have to be ordered to match your VIN. If this key can be programmed then I am sure that it can be reprogrammed. The whole idea of technology today is to make things easier and reusable. The idea of this key having to be ordered from the factory is not easier for us or Benz. I would even bet that the microchip in the smartkey can be reprogrammed. Benz is probably saying this to cover up their security glitch with this new smartkey technology.
I had heard that pre-2009 keys could be reprogrammed, but that most of the later keys could not be reprogrammed.
As for the metal key, they can be ordered from the factory by way of the dealer using the VIN for about $40.
Also on ebay, there are blanks plus a a fee, they will cut the key from a picture of the metal key that works.
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biker349 (07-04-2022)
07-02-2022, 09:45 AM
#47
Newbie
thank you, ended up at dealer, got key, but felt like i was thoroughly abused. They had to get key from Texas. Love my benz's but really hate keep having incidents proven by doubters the repairs are expensive.
01-18-2024, 01:34 PM
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cls500
As long as the FCC Id# matches and the Var is the same as your key it will work. The Var is numbered Var5, Var7, Var9, Var 11.
Usually dealerships will not touch those keys it comes down to $$$$,
However there are locksmiths that have bought the equipment to reprogram new and used MB keys. There is one I use all the time located in the Cocoa Beach Florida area...again the FCC Id# and the Var # needs to match the original smart key
Usually dealerships will not touch those keys it comes down to $$$$,
However there are locksmiths that have bought the equipment to reprogram new and used MB keys. There is one I use all the time located in the Cocoa Beach Florida area...again the FCC Id# and the Var # needs to match the original smart key
