Hello, I come out from work to start my 06 R500 and the key will not initialize the ignition, but I can lock and unlock the car fine. I check the 7.5A fuse over on the right side dash by door and it was not blown. I take my phone camera and check for infared light and it was weak but I could see a little something. I try putting key in the ignition and flipping it over trying it again.... Nothing. Look on YouTube and find a helpful video showing how to take the circuit board out and clean the IR transmitter and window. The key is original as far as I know and the buttons are starting to crack. Upon removing the circuit board the Exciter coil for the transmitter came off the circuit board on one end. I did not have the right tools to solder at work so I wrapped a think thin slice of electrical tape around it trying to hold it to circuit board but alas no luck on starting the car upon reassembly.

Go to MB dealer today and order 2 keys for the R500 and one spare for my CLS55 and if course that key was as much as the 2 R500 keys combined. So close to $800 in keys and still have to pay $160 for programming of them all and still have to tow the R500 to the dealership!!

The parts rep was saying that if any of the paperwork to order the keys is missing MB fines the dealer $500!

I explained I did not need the fancy chrome key for the CLS55 for a spare just something to get by on a pinch and he stated he had to order the key that the VIN pulled up for that car and that MB was very strict and particular when it comes to keys. Good I guess for very tight security to prevent theft.

I still want to try and solder the old key fob for repair just to avoid the towing if I can. The key fob worked till it didn't no warning or anything.

Anyone else have a similar story?
Take care all!

 

You didn't mention replacing the fob batteries. What do you think about this?

 

Hello, I did try a new set of batteries. I keep a spare set in car. Thanks!

 

MB Theft-Relevant-Parts Policy is very strict and definitely requires all necessary documents to proof the ownership. For sure 99,99% of key requests are legal, nevertheless the policy prevents accidental irregularities. One of the main points in this policy is that the vehicle has to be at the workshop when a key is teached in.

 

Are you saying two keys don't work? If that's the case, it's most likely the EIS.

 

Negative, I had to order new keys since my one and only key ( bought the R500 earlier this year) if not working. The keys are on order via MB dealer but will not be in till next week.

 

The key does not use its battery to start the car. Just the IR sensor. You really should have replaced the spare key when first lost.

 

Hello all I repaired my key fob with in part using this helpful YouTube video
One of the super fine copper wires was broken off the coil winding so I had to solder that back on. I still ordered and will get 2 new keys but at least now I can l use my key fob and avoid towing the car to the dealer.