I just bought a used 98 ML320 and it had only one key. I went to the dealer get two more, and they cannot sell any!!! The car has had 8 keys and that is it. It is some hard software limit that was built in years ago into the aml module or something like that. you need a new aml module, and then you need to re-key the entire vehicle. Parts cost from my dealer is $1900, then install...S*().
I will find a way...
Can anyone help me find a savvy Locksmith?

 

Sorry but a locksmith can't do anything for you and neither can anyone else. Your only alturnative is to get the new module and re key the vehicle. Actually while it is presenting problems for you it is an excellent security measure. I also do not know how anyone could go thru 8 keys even with a 10 year old vehicle. I would go back to the seller who most likely knew about this. Even MB can't do anything to get you the additional keys. When the vehicle was new in 98 the buyer received 2 standard keys with remotes and a valet key without a remote.

 

No, think about it, the mechanical sysstem is fine. It is the electronic module that cannot accept more keyid's that has problems. why change all the mechanical parts for no damn reason other than Mercedes computer says this car has that key...
If I could find a way, or if I could convice mercedes to sell me a new module and not force the mechanical re-key, we could cut the cost to an acceptable amount. Think about it. Change the module and the electronics in the keys only...

 

i had the same problem, i just replaced the aam and got a new set of keys , the mechanical locks were fine

 

Never having been in that situation I am not certain but I do believe that the AAM is the bulk of the expense here. The mechanical re keying and lock changing is only a very small part of this. I too can't see why they will not just sell you and install a new AAM without having to go thru the other stuff. Push the dealer to go this route and if he will not try another dealer.

 

with the new aam you get another set of 8 keys, you get 2 new keys with the aam,
the locks all stay the same, just the remote codes change

 

in some cases you have to replace the fuel computer too

 

i know that they sell ml keys on ebay but i don't know if that will work or no. so what's up with the up to 8 keys only for the ml class? is it only for the 98 or up to the new one too?

 

the MB key system, in recent years, has been consistent in using the security
key system in place now. unfortunately, inherent with this system is the self
limiting number of keycodes which can be used.

http://w210.pietrzyk.net/82bodyelect...ASvehikeys.htm

no (!)....you cannot buy some key off Ebay which had been previously used
for another MB car and to reprogram them for use with your vehicle. the keys
are designed not to be reprogramable.

 

from Raymond G's link it clearly states that you can have 24 keys total for a vehicle. Only eight can be enabled in one setting at a time though. It seenmns that you only need to switch the system t o use a the next sequence and then you can order up to 8 new keys.

 

Not so for the 98ML. 8 keys maximum.
Mike

 

That sucks!!!!!!!! You could just reset the module in Ford i dont know why MB does that. There has to be a way around that no?

 

Never EVER buy keys off of ebay. They will not work. They must come through a dealer.

 

MB does that because it cares about and protects its owners.

Ford could give a rat's ... .

 

NO BASHING FORD!