Correct. 2012 should be fine to be programmed by a 3rd party. Just make sure they guarantee ALL fobs work after they program the replacement.

To be sure, enter your VIN at www.lastvin.com and look for FBS4. If nothing shows up, then you have the earlier anti-theft version.

You should NOT find this:

 

I just received this message from the posting I found saying they could program Keyless Go keys:
Only the dealer can make a key for any mercedes newer than 2014.

New message from: mercedes-benz-specialist (58)

So it's off to the dealer I go to get a new key.

 

Please keep us updated.

 

Be sure to get pre-approved for a loan for the new key. Or maybe a 2nd mortgage on the house.

 

Stupid question time. Is the ignition switch coded to the VIN? I assume it is, but wanted to ask.

 

Good question. I want to say, "Of course!" But I am not sure.

 

Ignition switch or EIS (electronic ignition switch) is one of the many pieces required to start the engine. Others include: ESL (if present), ECU, TCM and likely another one

 

JC: yes, exactly
plus add to that list the ISM on CAN-C.

There is authentication of the keyfob
and then agreement to crank if ISM says "not in gear".

There must be a status flag "Yes/No" we can read with Xentry/Launch

 

i went to the local MB dealer and here is the breakdown on the cost for a replacement key fob

Key fob: $553.22
Key cut & ready for use: $134.40
Tax $55.35

Programming incl tax $325.00

Total cost for losing my key FOB: $1067.97.

I sure hope I never do that again.

 

ouch : (

 

Not only misplacing it, but drop, pants pockets to the laundry, swimming wear into a pool/beach, etc. guess how I know but with a cell phone (Blackberry back in the day).

 

At least they can make you a fob. They can't even make a Keyless Go fob for my 2012.

 

Get an AirTag or Tile for all your keys. When I replaced mine last year, my total was $650 from the dealer including programming, but not the cut key -- that was $99 more. The "emergency key" is really not needed as long as you have one. The dealer can order one based on you VIN if you need it because you locked your fob in the car or your car's battery went completely dead.

You can get blank keys and a locksmith with a laser cutter can cut a new copy. The only reason you really need the blank is for the keyring to attach to the fob. Still, a locksmith may charge $40 or more to cut a new key.

 

\
Check this guy: https://www.ebay.com/itm/13411793691...IAAOSwa8pifuOq

 

I have found a few that say they can do it. So far none have a warranty. I have a couple of locksmiths tell me they no longer program keyless Go fobs as they stop working after 2-3 months.

 

The tile is waiting for the new FOB. Thanks for the help and information. I've also found key blanks—one for $7 or two for $10.

 

Sometimes, it pays to shop around. I had to drive a little further, but I did find a better price on the west side of town vs Scottsdale.

Key fob: $464.00
Key cut & ready for use: $107.00
Tax $46.25

Programming incl tax $290.00

Total cost for losing my key FOB: $907.25

 

I sent him a message yesterday and have not heard back.

 

I was wrong before, the cost of my replacement was much less than $650 like I said. $650 probably included getting a cut key, which I did not. This was a little more than a year ago in March. Looks like they charged only ½ hour to program the new fob.

 

Programming today was $225, not $290. Total cost $832.25.

 

This company claims to be able to make a Keyless Go FOB. Anyone ever use them?

https://www.speedofix.com/

 

i have similar issues on my 2003 e class with keyless go. How can I find that guy? Thx.