So when I bought my car (2011 E350 4matic P2) it only came with one key. I would like to have a second key but the dealer quoted me $250. I found an uncut key off ebay (see link).

http://www.ebay.com/itm/261238748228...84.m1423.l2649

I already called MB and they told me the will not program it, so my question is:

Is it possible to program the key myself?

any feedback would be appreciated, thanks guys.

 

This would be a replacement "shell" for a worn unit, in which you dismantle your old FOB and transfer the electronics to the new "shell", the uncut key could possibly be cut by a reputable key shop , but as far as programming the FOB to your car if this comes with electronics, I believe it would be exhaustive and a time waster for you. Buy the FOB from the dealer, it will arrive already programmed for your car and also the key will be cut for the doors and truck. It is a security feature for your Benz, ID, ownership need to be provided to get the FOB ordered and also ID must be shown when you pick it up. Again the dealer does not program, they come from Germany already to go.

 

The keys come from Texas and as said are ready to go. There is no programming. They are ordered specifically for your VIN from the dealer. That ebay key can be tossed in the trash. It will never work. I have no idea why people buy these blanks.

 

I see thanks so much for the insight

 

Bought one in Mobile AL, the dealer ordered it direct from Germany, unless they use German signage in Texas. That was for an AMG maybe they have a depot in Texas for MB.

 

They come from Texas. I just received a replacement key a week ago. I believe the facility is in Fort Worth. I would have to look at the packaging my key arrived in.

 

Uh . . . did you buy that car new?? If so, they owe you a key.

If you got it used, then somebody else has a key.

 

no it was used

 

I feel lucky, my car came with two keys, then when I got home from the dealership that night I grabbed the owners manual books and inside the folder was a third key that worked as well! Carmax must not have known it was in there.

 

^ sweet. There is a maximum number of smart keys that can be programmed per vehicle. I think it is 4 or 6.

 

Don't be misled by Ebay key fob. Dealers will NOT reprograming the key because once the key is issue by MB. It can't re-code. Key are order per VIN only. Need proof of DL & Registration and vehicle needs to be at the dealership before placing an order.

 

I just purchased a CPO E550 and it also came with one key. The dealer ordered me a second new key and it came a couple days after I got the car. They key was ready to go but he did have to plug the key in a do something to enable the keyless start process to work and it took about 5 minutes. They didn't charge me for the new key but I assume I already paid for it in the price of the car. Nothing is ever free!

 

looks like I'll be going to MB this weekend to order a new key

 

i was very skeptical about buying that key off ebay, it seemed to good to be true...which is why i came to you guys first!

 

When you get the new key from your dealer it will take just a few seconds for your car to initialize it. Insert the key and you will see a message that says it is initializing the key. Takes about 3 seconds and then you are good to go with full function. I have Keyless Go as well and there is no additional programming for that feature that I am aware of.

 

The initialization process is now more complicated. I just got a third key from my dealer on a '14 E350 wagon we took delivery of Monday. It needs to be progammed at the service department. Putting it in the slot was not enough.

 

@weinschela, as long as they do it for free, who cares, but if they are trying to extract more green from you then call them on it.

 

Maybe that was a programmable dealer blank? It took two weeks for me to get my dealer ordered key out of the Texas facility. Or perhaps there is more security with the newer models as you have said.

 

They're not charging me.

 

My wife was told by the local MB dealership that her 14 E350 will need to be left at the dealership and they will program the key fob to the car ? T