1986CJ7

Hi,

I was stuck at the hospital last evening until my dad brought me the mechanical key. Initially I thought it's a matter of switching off the batteries, but still, after putting brand new DL2025s in it the car wasn't unlocking, nor would it start.

Any idea how to troubleshoot the key before hitting up the stealership?

Best,
Marius

RichardM98

First, the batteries in the key are for the transmitter which locks/unlocks the car and open/closes the windows and sunroof. They are not necessary to start the car. If fact the W210 came with 3 keys -- two smart and one emergency key with no batteries or metal key insert but would start the car.

Keys are 'theft protection' issue and are pretty much a dealer only option. The key must be matched to the car's computer in order to release the ignition lock and start the car. Inside the key is a small circuit board. At the front end is a very small coil. If the key is dropped the coil can become partially detached. Some people have reported repairing the key.

Here in California most dealers charge between $200-$250 or a new key. The new ones have chrome trim. Beware that eBay dealers sometimes offer used keys and claim they can be reprogrammed by the dealer. However, the dealer won't do that.

1986CJ7

Oh crap, dealers over here want 400$/key (360+tax)

RichardM98

If you are close enough, can you deal with a dealership in Seattle? Of course, you have to show ownership of the car to order a key. Might be worth a call at least.

1986CJ7

There's one in Bellingham, 40min drive, 250$
Done and done, but first I need to make sure it's the key and not the actual EIS.

Cloudsurfer

Are these ordered to the car, or coded via SDS?

gadgetman7

I had a similar problem with my 99 E320, fob would lock and unlock the doors even after replacing the batteries in the fob, but would not start the car. So I ended up buying a new fob from the MB dealer but was able to talk him down to $175. The new fob came from Texas where I was told that's where MB programs them. I also learned that the fobs are programed for a limited number of starts but the number is real high. MB dealership admitted ths as well as several MB mechanics. Kind of pisses you off with a control of numbers starts. So every time my new fob doesn't stRt the car, I'm using up that limited number of starts.

Plutoe

They are ordered to the car!!

1986CJ7

+1 I think I am stuck ordering a new set.

If the EIS is working with the safety/mechanical key I should just guess that it's a FOB issue, and not an EIS issue. FOB doesn't even open the doors anymore. It's by key only.

Plutoe

My guess is that if you had an issue with the EIS the car would not allow a start----and like you were previously advised the the key fob buttons/batteries are for executing the convience features---nothing to do with starting!!

1986CJ7

Agreed At least I'll get them for 300$ cheaper. Spoke to a dealership in Seattle and I can order a pair for 500$ as opposed to 800$ here at home.

MisterMaster

My key fob is not working, when I press any button on the key the LED light is very weak, batteries a new, can't start the car, the key is not turned into the ignition, seams that infrared and key recognition is not working on my 1999 Mercedes benz E300 TD (W210). I tried to press lock and unlock button on the same time and after 5 sec the LED light blinks strong twice. Nothing else... Please Help. Thanks.