HETPE3B

Issue - have a car that came without a key at all.
Have another donor car that was running fine before it became a donor (meaning it have all the modules and the key). What modules needs to be swapped so the first car could be started using the modules from the parts car to make a matching set of modules? For starters swapped the ignition lock - first car started to recognize the lock/unlock remote, but the key can't be turned in the ignition lock yet. What else is in the minimum required set of modules that will allow me at least to start the car?

dzmitry

It's going to be very long list :-D

1. ECU because it stores keys data.
2. Probably TCU (judging by your signature it's 722.9 so ... very complicated) From what i know 722.9 TCU is vin coded (vin store in the ECU and in the EZS (ignition switch)).
3. Most likely all vin dependent modules like instrument cluster (it probably going to work, but It might not show odometer reading), ABS module (not 100% sure, but I heard that it's also vin-coded)
4. You probably going to get some errors due to different modules configuration (partially stored in the EZS) unless both cars have identical configurations.

Mercedes anti-theft system was specifically designed to make "ignition keys swap" very, very complicated

HETPE3B

So as it turned out the list is not tooo long.
In order to fire up the engine 4 synced parts are required - ECU, ignition switch, ignition key, steering column lock. When those 4 present the engine will start. However the car won't move. If moving is necessary - transmission contact plate swap is also required. Then the car will move, but will have quite a few lights on the dash and codes in the system. At that point the car will think it is another car, so most likely you won't be able to pass the inspection due to computer will pull the information from the donor car

6speedclk

If you can prove the car is yours I would just get a new key from a dealer. Also a locksmith may be able to get a key and program it. Good call on the steering lock. That’s a blue key program item.

HETPE3B

I wanted to get the key from the dealer (despite the $250 cost), but the only thing that stopped me - they want to see the car for some reason. Either the service advisor doesn't know the deal but as far as I know if I order the key from the dealer it comes already programmed and it's not required to sync it additionally. I definitely don't want to rent a trailer, push a car onto the trailer and drive to the dealer. I can send the ignition module to one of eBay guys and they can program the key off it. $99-150 for that service, I'll get it delivered back home programmed, plus no need to move the car around.

6speedclk

Yea it is a bit of a hassle. Some work shops want to hook up and check the available key tracks before ordering a new key.