2003 ML500 Storage Compartment: Separate Key
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 13
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2011 E-Class, 2003 ML500
2003 ML500 Storage Compartment: Separate Key
I bought the vehicle used and the lockable drawer under the passenger is locked. I read the fine manual and it stated "the compartment is lockable with a separate key." Are the keys 'all the same' or are they cut specifically for the vehicle?
I'd like to open it in case it has the stuff inside I need like the owners manual, 4 spare remote fobs, and/or a gallon-sized plastic bag of fresh weed (kidding!).
I'd like to open it in case it has the stuff inside I need like the owners manual, 4 spare remote fobs, and/or a gallon-sized plastic bag of fresh weed (kidding!).
Last edited by bluesIIVV; Jul 13, 2014 at 04:36 PM.
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 282
Likes: 5
From: Brisbane, Australia
2002 ML320, 2003 A160
At the risk of stating the bleedin' obvious, the keys are cut specifically for the lock, and they are different (up to the number of possible variations). Here is an example key.
Have the lockbox picked by a locksmith, or you might be able to DIY with the appropriate special tools.
Have the lockbox picked by a locksmith, or you might be able to DIY with the appropriate special tools.
Last edited by DrX; Sep 25, 2014 at 09:20 PM.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 13
Likes: 0
2011 E-Class, 2003 ML500
The rest of the story....
We ordered up a $18 lock pick set from Amazon or similar place. After practicing on a Kwikset deadbolt we turned our attention to the ML locking drawer. It was an easy-ish job (says the guy that never picked a lock prior to that day).
Anyhow, the cupboard was bare so to speak. I felt like Geraldo at the opening of "Al Capone's Secret Vault". [We did however find a full cigarette under the compartment, an unmolested Splenda packet, and a flawless Land O' Lakes single-serve butter from a fast food breakfast. So there's that! LOL]
Oh well - it was worth a shot! The next day I went to the dealer to order the new key. $180-ish + tax. Nice service writer had it programmed for free so I gave him a ten spot for a beer.
Works great so far!
We ordered up a $18 lock pick set from Amazon or similar place. After practicing on a Kwikset deadbolt we turned our attention to the ML locking drawer. It was an easy-ish job (says the guy that never picked a lock prior to that day).
Anyhow, the cupboard was bare so to speak. I felt like Geraldo at the opening of "Al Capone's Secret Vault". [We did however find a full cigarette under the compartment, an unmolested Splenda packet, and a flawless Land O' Lakes single-serve butter from a fast food breakfast. So there's that! LOL]
Oh well - it was worth a shot! The next day I went to the dealer to order the new key. $180-ish + tax. Nice service writer had it programmed for free so I gave him a ten spot for a beer.
Works great so far!
