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Hi all, I have three sets of keys for my relatively new to me 2005 E500, it came with two older style keys (see image) complete with the metal key insert for the valet key. The newer style key, however, does not have this and only comes with the fob (see second image). However this Fob is fully functional and works just as it should to start, lock, unlock the car, just without the option to place it on a chain or to use it for valet keys. I have found some key blanks on
and was curious if I could take it along with my old valet keys to any locksmith and they could do it. I've searched here and found locksmiths cannot program the fob, but should they be able to simply copy the key from the old valet to the new blank?
Yes you should be able to get locksmith to cut it for you. Call around as I'm sure it will be cheaper than the dealer. Also if you don't have keyless go, you can swap the cases to the newer style. They sell blanks on eBay. Keyless go is much harder to swap.
It is not valet key, as that would be last key you might want to leave with valet as it opens trunk and GC.
Anyway, last time I order chrome key, the dealer charged me separately for blade key and it was $28 from my memory.
Beware that blades come in several different shapes over the years, so you need to figure out what exactly you need.
I think it's better to go to a locksmith, and it will be cheaper + some specialists are very experienced and do orders as well as the dealer.I had a couple of problems with my parent's car keys when I first went to the dealer. Took long enough for the money I paid. Then I went to http://swiftlocksmithinc.com/. Their prices are ok, and orders are filled in a short time frame. As they told me, all the specialists are certified, so they vouch for the quality of their work.
Why were you told they couldn't reprogram it? You went to the wrong locksmith. Any handyman will do it quickly and efficiently. I programmed a key from a W210, so I can confidently say that it is quite possible. About how much locksmiths are paid, I can tell you that it's different in every state. Somewhere there are many specialists in this business, and somewhere there are none at all. You can find out more info here if you're interested in statistics. I can say for sure that locksmith work pays well, so people underestimate it for nothing. The author of this discussion is advised to find a good locksmith.