W202 Key issue
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Junior Member
Joined: Mar 2015
Posts: 69
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1994 Mercedes-Benz C280
W202 Key issue
I had my keys stolen from me on Miami Beach yesterday and so far, I’ve replaced everything except for my ignition key. A few years ago, my ignition tumblr failed, so we replaced it with an after market Febi tumbler (with a different key of course). Went to the dealer today and ordered originalkeys, but obviously those Will not work to start the car. What should I do as far as getting a key for my ignition? Everyone is sayingit’ll be $500 to create another key but I feel Like there has to be a cheaper alternative. All help is welcome!
Junior Member
Joined: Dec 2018
Posts: 69
Likes: 6
2000 C280
there are people/companies that will clone your current key from your car's system. they attach a AK90 ( look it up) type device , read the module and create a key for you. prices are crazy... anywhere from $50 to $300 ( at least in NY). some are even mobile, and will come to you with their service. I duplicated a key ( 2000 C280) for about $225, works perfectly
Junior Member
Joined: Dec 2018
Posts: 69
Likes: 6
2000 C280
just looked at FCP Euro, the Febi key/cylinder is $20. (dont know your model and year) but I would just replace your current cylinder with another key/cylinder. there's no programming for this basic metal key. Did you have to do anything special when you first installed the Febi. It seems that you're back to the same situation as you originally stated
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Mar 2015
Posts: 69
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1994 Mercedes-Benz C280
Well the problem originally was that the key would not turn. Pretty sure they had to drill the lock out in order to replace it, this was about 5 years ago. Will they have to drill it if it’s been replaced before? I will Check the paperwork once I get Into the car.
Junior Member
Joined: Dec 2018
Posts: 69
Likes: 6
2000 C280
found this video, which shows how to remove/install tumbler----https://youtu.be/sSSgf4ZZCfA, check youtube for other related video's, some suppliers even sell the tool you need to remove the old cylinder, or check amazon
Last edited by W202_NY; Jun 3, 2021 at 02:43 PM.
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Joined: Feb 2022
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1999 C-280
@leviohanenye It's been a while, what did you end up doing?
Aside from the dealership, with mechanical keys a regular locksmith is always an option. They have multiple techniques to do what needs to be done, especially if another aftermarket part can be installed. (i.e. destructive operation of the device, in order to remove the device and replace it.) If one locksmith says no, get a couple of other opinions. Different locksmiths have different capabilities.
Aside from the dealership, with mechanical keys a regular locksmith is always an option. They have multiple techniques to do what needs to be done, especially if another aftermarket part can be installed. (i.e. destructive operation of the device, in order to remove the device and replace it.) If one locksmith says no, get a couple of other opinions. Different locksmiths have different capabilities.
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Mar 2015
Posts: 69
Likes: 0
1994 Mercedes-Benz C280
I had a locksmith come out and he drilled it in my yard. Then he installed a new lock cylinder. Eventually, I’ll order one from Mercedes’ but for now this $20 one from eBay works fine!
@leviohanenye It's been a while, what did you end up doing?
Aside from the dealership, with mechanical keys a regular locksmith is always an option. They have multiple techniques to do what needs to be done, especially if another aftermarket part can be installed. (i.e. destructive operation of the device, in order to remove the device and replace it.) If one locksmith says no, get a couple of other opinions. Different locksmiths have different capabilities.
Aside from the dealership, with mechanical keys a regular locksmith is always an option. They have multiple techniques to do what needs to be done, especially if another aftermarket part can be installed. (i.e. destructive operation of the device, in order to remove the device and replace it.) If one locksmith says no, get a couple of other opinions. Different locksmiths have different capabilities.
