M-Class (W163) Produced 1998-2005: ML 230, ML 320, ML 350, ML 400 CDI, ML 430, ML 500, ML 270 CDI

Where Can I Get a Remote Key?

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Old Feb 9, 2021 | 01:57 PM
  #1  
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'99 ML430 W163; '05 CLK320 W209
Where Can I Get a Remote Key?

I have a '99 ML430. Bought it a couple years ago, and it came with the original flip up key fob - very old and used key, button logos gone, wiggled in the ignition slot and when opening the doors manually. Unlocking and locking buttons didn't work, even with changing the batteries and trying to program it to the car. Went to 2 dealerships (Flagstaff and Vegas), and they told me that the key fob is no longer made, however they were able to get me a secondary what they call "mickey mouse" key with no remote buttons for $40 that has been my primary key since I've owned the car with the original key as the spare. So, for the past couple years, I've been having to lock and unlock the car manually and getting tired of it. Really hoping to find a programmable key fob, even if I can't get the key cut. Just as long as I can have something with buttons to unlock and lock the car. Any leads would be great, thanks!

Last edited by kyleml430; Feb 9, 2021 at 02:09 PM.
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Old Feb 10, 2021 | 12:01 AM
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02w163ML500 / 97w210E50AMG / 99w202C230k / 95w124500e-wip
Google is your friend
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Old Feb 10, 2021 | 12:25 AM
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'99 ML430 W163; '05 CLK320 W209
Originally Posted by khomer2
How can I program a blank key fob to the car without Mercedes? I don’t want to pay good $$$ for one from a random website only to find none of the methods are working. Hoping to get some advice from people that have experienced a similar situation.
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Old Feb 10, 2021 | 12:28 AM
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Not doable.

End of story.

same issue with w140, r129, w163 owners.

Last edited by khomer2; Feb 10, 2021 at 12:30 AM.
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Old Feb 10, 2021 | 12:32 AM
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'99 ML430 W163; '05 CLK320 W209
Not doable as in it can’t happen? Or not doable as in it’s impossible to be certain?
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Old Feb 10, 2021 | 12:40 AM
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Originally Posted by kyleml430
Not doable as in it can’t happen? Or not doable as in it’s impossible to be certain?
To satisfy your own mind on this matter, spend some time searching google. You've probably done some already.
Search also the "same" fob issue with w140s, r129s (not just w163s). When you come back with a bonafide solution,
inform the rest of the members.
I highly recommend you get yourself another valet key, if you only have the present 'one'.

The link I gave you will give you a 3rd party option fob option (ie. lock and unlock only)
If you haven't read thru it and digested it, I suggest you do so. It's a decent cheap alternative vs. your oem fob option (that doesnt exist) right now and hasn't for some time.

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Old Feb 10, 2021 | 01:02 AM
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'99 ML430 W163; '05 CLK320 W209
Thank you, I appreciate it. My original fob that came with the car still works to manually lock/unlock the doors and start/shut off the engine, so I use that as my spare. I’m just looking for a fob (non-OEM as I know they don’t make them anymore) that will unlock and lock the car remotely. Doesn’t need to start/shut off engine.
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Old Feb 13, 2021 | 12:26 PM
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Another alternative is just to get an aftermarket keyless entry installed. Should be about $200 installed.
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Old Feb 13, 2021 | 12:28 PM
  #9  
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Originally Posted by norcalcasey
Another alternative is just to get an aftermarket keyless entry installed. Should be about $200 installed.
post #2....
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Old Feb 22, 2021 | 12:37 AM
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Originally Posted by kyleml430
I have a '99 ML430. Bought it a couple years ago, and it came with the original flip up key fob - very old and used key, button logos gone, wiggled in the ignition slot and when opening the doors manually. Unlocking and locking buttons didn't work, even with changing the batteries and trying to program it to the car. Went to 2 dealerships (Flagstaff and Vegas), and they told me that the key fob is no longer made, however they were able to get me a secondary what they call "mickey mouse" key with no remote buttons for $40 that has been my primary key since I've owned the car with the original key as the spare. So, for the past couple years, I've been having to lock and unlock the car manually and getting tired of it. Really hoping to find a programmable key fob, even if I can't get the key cut. Just as long as I can have something with buttons to unlock and lock the car. Any leads would be great, thanks!
What city are you located in? I may have a solution for you
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Old Feb 22, 2021 | 10:26 AM
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'99 ML430 W163; '05 CLK320 W209
In Flagstaff, AZ for now, but happy to make a drive to Vegas or Phoenix.
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Old Feb 22, 2021 | 10:34 AM
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Originally Posted by kyleml430
In Flagstaff, AZ for now, but happy to make a drive to Vegas or Phoenix.
I know someone in SoCal that can help. Let me look into AZ
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Old Feb 22, 2021 | 10:38 AM
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'99 ML430 W163; '05 CLK320 W209
I appreciate it, thank you!
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