SuperSL

Here is the long and short of it

I put a deposit down to hold an R129 that I was going to trade my E66 for. They original key was just stolen a few days ago and so now the dilemma. Apparently a new key is being made but it will not be a fob. It will be just a key to unlock the doors, trunk, and turn the ignition. No infrared, no panic, no button to lock/unlock.

I've been offered to get a refund and lose out on this particular R129. Granted, I'll have to lose a bit of money because the seller did in fact hold it for me for a few weeks while I got some title work in order on my E66.

Should I ditch this R129 and cut my losses, or bite the bullet and take it with this randomly cut key that we have yet to see if it works or not.

I appreciate all input.

Best,
Carlos

mahunt

Some years are harder to source keys than others'

Which year and model?

SuperSL

2001 Mercedes Benz SL500.

mahunt

The folks selling the car would have to provide a real MB solution (fob key) to sell the car to anyone.

ALL of your money should be refunded, you didn't lose the key (right?).

There are plenty of 2001 R129s on the planet, pick one with a set of keys.

Ideally, the cars come with 2 fobs, one valet and a master key.

I wouldn't recommend buying one of these cars with only one key.

SuperSL

How do I bring up wanting a full refund? Sure I could ask for it. But they have a policy of no refunds. Considering the car is now no longer in the state it was when the deal was made, does this void their no refund policy and entitle me to a full refund?

mahunt

Do you have parents that could help you cancel the deal?

Warrenclawson

When you placed the deposit you should be assured that you will receive the car as advertised. You can proceed to purchase the car and ask for $$ for you to secure a correct key or insist the seller provides them. They seller could have found someone who would pay more and is playing games with you

SuperSL

The dealer and I have sorted it out as far as keys/funds etc. I will report back with the end result this Saturday after I've picked her up.

Ahmed

I wish I could help you guys out, but our dealer here is very strict.
Every R129 owner in Bahrain has managed to order their Key Fobs in the last 12 months with success.
Regardless of year of manufacture.

SuperSL

Just wanted to update on what exactly happened with my shopping of this particular R129.



Deal fell through. Supposedly keys were made and everything was ready to go. Day before scheduled pick up I learn that the alarm is going off non stop and the car wont start. I said "NOPE" and requested a refund. I got a full refund and will not be doing business with this person or this car.



New prospect: 2000 R129, 116k miles, black with panoramic hard top, same price and deal particulars as previous situation. Has ALL working keys valet, 2 fobs, master etc. Will be getting this Friday. A 12 hour drive to drop off my trade in, and a 12 hour drive back in the new car. Should be fun. Cheers.

MODS PLZ CLOSE THREAD. Thanks to all who contributed and helped me.

mahunt

That's how you deal with a no key situation.

qwojtus

Get the fully working key for this car is no end of the world. Better search for car locksmith in your area rather than ask forum for help.

SuperSL

You should read my previous post :p