My car came with only one key, and the cover of that one is starting to crack with frequent use. (similar to this one http://www.ebay.com/itm/Benz-FOB-OEM-keyless-remote-entry-new-uncut-blank-key-transmitter-clicker-opener-/231178260761?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item35d34c5119&vxp=mtr )

Dealer wants $320 for a new replacement key, programmed & cut.

Two questions:

1. Can I buy a shell on ebay and change over the "innards" myself without having to go to the dealer, or are all the parts stuck together?

one like this one, for ~$50

http://www.ebay.com/itm/MERCEDES-2007-2009-CL-SMART-KEY-REMOTE-FOB-WITH-UNCUT-BLADE-/251298206043?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item3a828a515b&vxp=mtr
2. Can I buy an extra one on ebay for $130 and get MB to program/cut it (though I'm not sure I need it cut), or do they just charge $200 for the privilege?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mercedes-replacement-smartkey-keyless-remote-entry-new-uncut-key-clicker-opener-/310996312537?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item4868d321d9&vxp=mtr
I notice that these are "remanufactured" - not sure what that means - does it just have a fresh uncut metal key?


I'm sure this has come up before, but I couldn't find anything with a search.

 

wow, I wasn't expecting the ebay links to come up like that !!

 

You can swap the circuit board on keys of the IDENTICAL style. Different styles (plain black, chrome with round panic button or chrome with triangle panic button) are not interchangeable.

 

Not sure if I followed all of your questions but it is my understanding that if you need a new key, you have to get it from the dealer. You have to present your ID and car registration and they will order it for you. Your dealer sounds high. I paid $250 for mine which seemed to be the going rate from the dealers I spoke with here in So Cal.

 

Thanks,

looking on ebay, it seems like a lot of keys suffer the same cracks as mine.

Why are people selling $130 replacement fobs, with blank metal keys, if they can't be used?

 

Because in the words of PT Barnum, "one is born every minute."

 

^ what he said