Can keys from '99 model years be reprogrammed?
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E300
Can keys from '99 model years be reprogrammed?
Can the infrared based keys, non-flip out type [1999 model year specifically], be used in another E with the same type of mechanism [1999], just by being reprogrammed? Can anyone elaborate on this?
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There has been some debate over the years about this. I don't believe the keys can be reprogrammed. My reason for this is - When you order a new key at the dealer you need to show proof of ownership and the VIN number. The dealer has to order it from MBUSA. If the keys were generic and reprogrammable the dealer would just have them in stock ready to be programmed.
When these keys started in 1998 model year I was told that each car had only 8 Infared keys. After all 8 were exhausted you are out of luck and the cars key system would have to be replaced.
When these keys started in 1998 model year I was told that each car had only 8 Infared keys. After all 8 were exhausted you are out of luck and the cars key system would have to be replaced.
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Kev's belief is correct. The keys cannot be reprogrammed by me, you, or anyone at the dealership. The keys are programmed in firmware before being shipped out. Since getting a replacement key is important, they ship them out via next day courier... if it's that important, they would stock them at the dealer to be programmed if that was possible.
Also, any SmartKeys you get will be the new (smaller) style.
-s-
Also, any SmartKeys you get will be the new (smaller) style.
-s-
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The reason the dealer ask for VIN & registration paper is to prevent someone (valet attendant, those who have access to cars...) to obtain keys and program it for cars that're not theirs.
The key contain ROM, which can only be written once, therefore, it can be programed only once. The way you program is pretty simply: plug it into your ignition, and press any button. Once programed, it can not be reprogram. All Benz (except ML) built after '98 are using this smart key technology.
There's no limit number of how many key can be program for one car. As the matter of fact, mercedes dealers have lot of them in stock. My dealer just went into the warehouse and took out one when I ordered it. Upon confirmed w/ mechanic, they told me that they keep it in tight lock, to prevent someone from getting a hold of it and program it for cars they want to ....take for some ride :-)
Just imagine being a vallet attendant, having about 10 of these fresh keys, and plug it into every SL55 or S55 they are asked to park. Get address of these owner, and voaloa !.
This explain why they ask for paper work before they sell you the key.
The key contain ROM, which can only be written once, therefore, it can be programed only once. The way you program is pretty simply: plug it into your ignition, and press any button. Once programed, it can not be reprogram. All Benz (except ML) built after '98 are using this smart key technology.
There's no limit number of how many key can be program for one car. As the matter of fact, mercedes dealers have lot of them in stock. My dealer just went into the warehouse and took out one when I ordered it. Upon confirmed w/ mechanic, they told me that they keep it in tight lock, to prevent someone from getting a hold of it and program it for cars they want to ....take for some ride :-)
Just imagine being a vallet attendant, having about 10 of these fresh keys, and plug it into every SL55 or S55 they are asked to park. Get address of these owner, and voaloa !.
This explain why they ask for paper work before they sell you the key.
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From: Washington D.C.
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Originally posted by zam2000
The reason the dealer ask for VIN & registration paper is to prevent someone (valet attendant, those who have access to cars...) to obtain keys and program it for cars that're not theirs.
There's no limit number of how many key can be program for one car. As the matter of fact, mercedes dealers have lot of them in stock. My dealer just went into the warehouse and took out one when I ordered it.
The reason the dealer ask for VIN & registration paper is to prevent someone (valet attendant, those who have access to cars...) to obtain keys and program it for cars that're not theirs.
There's no limit number of how many key can be program for one car. As the matter of fact, mercedes dealers have lot of them in stock. My dealer just went into the warehouse and took out one when I ordered it.
You state that your dealer has them in stock? If in stock why did you need to "order it"? In stock items are not ordered?
Last edited by E55 KEV; May 12, 2003 at 11:58 AM.
