SL/R231: Why are keys so expensive????
Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 7,847
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From: Maryland
2015 SL400 (M276 Turbo), 2014 C350 Sport (M276 NA), 2004 SL500 (M113), 2004 Audi TT225 (BEA)
I recently purchased a used 2013 r231 and it only came with one key. Thinking to myself, how much can a new key cost, $300 - $400 max... Boy was I wrong. I've been doing a lot of research and turns out my car even though it is a 2013, it's fbs4 and not fbs3. Only dealers are able to program fbs4 fobs or very specialized shops that have $40K subscription-based tool like the dealer. Best way to tell if your car is fbs4 or fbs3 is to run your VIN on Mercedes VIN Decoder | Free Mercedes-Benz VIN Lookup Tool - MBDecoder and look for SA Code 803 or 804. If your car has 803 or 804 then you have fbs4 which means you are SOL like me. I did find a shop that claims they have a dealer tool and is able to program fbs4 fobs, but they are located near San Diego, CA.
I'm surprised yours is FBS4 as I thought cars of model year 2014 and before could be coded by a locksmith.
Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 7,847
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From: Maryland
2015 SL400 (M276 Turbo), 2014 C350 Sport (M276 NA), 2004 SL500 (M113), 2004 Audi TT225 (BEA)
My 2015 SL400 has J8A DSM STAR1 FBS4 REMOTE STARTABLE and required going to the dealer. My 2014 C350 has no codes like that, so I wonder whether a locksmith could duplicate a key. Some new features get rolled out with different model years. Maybe Mercedes doesn't want to make a change across the board that they may need to reverse or retrofit. I'm sure there are more C-Class cars than SL-Class, so roll out to a fewer number of cars first.
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Joined: Dec 2015
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From: Hagerstown MD
2015 SL400; 2019 X5M40i
New keyfobs are back in stock at NorthCoastKeyless.
Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 7,847
Likes: 3,496
From: Maryland
2015 SL400 (M276 Turbo), 2014 C350 Sport (M276 NA), 2004 SL500 (M113), 2004 Audi TT225 (BEA)
The fobs from NorthCoastKeyless come with blank keys. I had mine cut at a locksmith in Frederick. But the place in WV should be able to cut the key, as well. Any locksmith with a laser cutting device should be able to copy the key blade.
My "problem" was that my SL is a 2015 model and only a dealer can program the fob due to updated fob encryption. The dealer claimed they were unable to program the fob, so I had to get one from them. I couldn't get a straight answer as to why they were unable -- was it a policy issue or was the fob was un-programable. The fob matched the FCC number, etc., so it should have worked.
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Joined: Dec 2015
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From: Hagerstown MD
2015 SL400; 2019 X5M40i
The fob needs to be programmed, but a locksmith should be able to do it for non-FSB4 cars. But you must find a locksmith that can do it. There is one in Hedgesville, WV. Ave's Lock & Key. They tried to program my fob with their Autel key programmer, but the device would only do MY14 and older.
The fobs from NorthCoastKeyless come with blank keys. I had mine cut at a locksmith in Frederick. But the place in WV should be able to cut the key, as well. Any locksmith with a laser cutting device should be able to copy the key blade.
My "problem" was that my SL is a 2015 model and only a dealer can program the fob due to updated fob encryption. The dealer claimed they were unable to program the fob, so I had to get one from them. I couldn't get a straight answer as to why they were unable -- was it a policy issue or was the fob was un-programable. The fob matched the FCC number, etc., so it should have worked.
The fobs from NorthCoastKeyless come with blank keys. I had mine cut at a locksmith in Frederick. But the place in WV should be able to cut the key, as well. Any locksmith with a laser cutting device should be able to copy the key blade.
My "problem" was that my SL is a 2015 model and only a dealer can program the fob due to updated fob encryption. The dealer claimed they were unable to program the fob, so I had to get one from them. I couldn't get a straight answer as to why they were unable -- was it a policy issue or was the fob was un-programable. The fob matched the FCC number, etc., so it should have worked.
Newbie
Joined: Mar 2025
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mercedes c300 2013
Back story -- I purchased my 2013 SL550 in September. Unfortunately, it only came with one key. No big deal, right? I've had to get new key fobs for Beamers I owned. They weren't cheap, but the price didn't give me a heart attack.
Today -- I called several (5) local MBZ dealerships to get a quote for a new key. Oh my God. I almost died. The best price I could find was $432 for the fob + $133 for the "blade" (I'm assuming that's the metal key in the fob) + $270 to program it. $887 with tax, and I have to drive the car to them (50 miles each way). I asked if I could send them a photo of the VIN from the door of the car and a copy of my registration, but No. They need to see the actual car. I was told that's in case I'm trying to steal an ex-spouses car. Really??? My name is the only one on the registration, and if I was going to steal my own car, that's between me and the police, not MBZ.
I come from a technology background. I've build high tech hardware and done my share of programming. The fob couldn't cost MBZ more the $25 in parts. The metal key shouldn't be more then $50 (just a key blank and few minutes to cut it). The "programming fee" really threw me for a loop. Programming is a fairly simply and quick process. Plug the key into the programming device, enter the VIN, push "Go", wait a couple of minutes. How does that equate to $270?
I know we're all paying for the privilege of driving an SL, but does MBZ think we're stupid?
I think I'll just get a $25 Apple Air Tag and be done with it.
Ok. I'll get off of my soap box now...
Today -- I called several (5) local MBZ dealerships to get a quote for a new key. Oh my God. I almost died. The best price I could find was $432 for the fob + $133 for the "blade" (I'm assuming that's the metal key in the fob) + $270 to program it. $887 with tax, and I have to drive the car to them (50 miles each way). I asked if I could send them a photo of the VIN from the door of the car and a copy of my registration, but No. They need to see the actual car. I was told that's in case I'm trying to steal an ex-spouses car. Really??? My name is the only one on the registration, and if I was going to steal my own car, that's between me and the police, not MBZ.
I come from a technology background. I've build high tech hardware and done my share of programming. The fob couldn't cost MBZ more the $25 in parts. The metal key shouldn't be more then $50 (just a key blank and few minutes to cut it). The "programming fee" really threw me for a loop. Programming is a fairly simply and quick process. Plug the key into the programming device, enter the VIN, push "Go", wait a couple of minutes. How does that equate to $270?
I know we're all paying for the privilege of driving an SL, but does MBZ think we're stupid?
I think I'll just get a $25 Apple Air Tag and be done with it.
Ok. I'll get off of my soap box now...
For FBS3 vehicles, typically those manufactured in 2013 and earlier, we can create a key by sending us the EIS module to our shop at 1168 W Pioneer Parkway, Arlington, TX 76013. The pricing for this service is $225 plus shipping. This service includes a brand new Mercedes fob programmed to your vehicle; you would only need to reinstall the EIS into your vehicle. We can also delete any previous keys if requested.
In case you need an emergency key, we can cut one as well if you ship the driver-side door lock to us. The price for cutting an emergency key is $65.
With over 15 years of experience, we typically complete this service the same day we receive the parts. Don’t hesitate to send me a message or call us directly if you need any Mercedes spare keys or key replacements!
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Here is the answer I received from two different MB dealerships as to why they won't be able to program virgin OEM keys purchased online. Supposedly, MB, not the dealership, has to encode the VIN on the key and ship it to the dealership. MB dealerships have blanks, but they have to go through a rigorous approval process from MB to be allowed to encode the VIN on the key, which they claim they are audited by MB. Long story short, I was told FBS4 keys must be purchased through the dealership or they will not be able to program it. I understand there is a process and security is important, but $900+ for a key+programming is ridiculous.
Last edited by eguru888; Mar 5, 2025 at 03:30 PM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2015
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From: Hagerstown MD
2015 SL400; 2019 X5M40i
Here is the answer I received from two different MB dealerships as to why they won't be able to program virgin OEM keys purchased online. Supposedly, MB, not the dealership, has to encode the VIN on the key and ship it to the dealership. MB dealerships have blanks, but they have to go through a rigorous approval process from MB to be allowed to encode the VIN on the key, which they claim they are audited by MB. Long story short, I was told FBS4 keys must be purchased through the dealership or they will not be able to program it. I understand there is a process and security is important, but $900+ for a key+programming is ridiculous.
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Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 7,847
Likes: 3,496
From: Maryland
2015 SL400 (M276 Turbo), 2014 C350 Sport (M276 NA), 2004 SL500 (M113), 2004 Audi TT225 (BEA)
Here is the answer I received from two different MB dealerships as to why they won't be able to program virgin OEM keys purchased online. Supposedly, MB, not the dealership, has to encode the VIN on the key and ship it to the dealership. MB dealerships have blanks, but they have to go through a rigorous approval process from MB to be allowed to encode the VIN on the key, which they claim they are audited by MB. Long story short, I was told FBS4 keys must be purchased through the dealership or they will not be able to program it. I understand there is a process and security is important, but $900+ for a key+programming is ridiculous.
The fob may be a different story. The dealership can clone/program a fob to work with your car (or at least they should be able to -- they did mine, but I had to buy the fob from them). My dealer keeps "virgin" fobs in stock. I really don't know if they can't or won't program a virgin genuine key purchased online, but they claimed they were unable to program it. Again, what does "unable" mean? Not physically possible, or policy prohibits it? I figured it wasn't worth arguing -- I wasn't going to win. I have added AirTags to all my keys.
Here is a picture below of a virgin key fob that I just received from NorthCoastKeyless and my existing key fob that has been programmed to my car. Can you tell which is which? (Hint: Only one unlocks my car.). My understanding is that model year 2014 and earlier (FBS3?) can be programmed by a locksmith, but the new FBS4 protocol cannot. (By the way, my key fob from the dealer was $650 programmed to my car. I brought my own metal emergency key already cut by a local locksmith.)
Last edited by JettaRed; Mar 5, 2025 at 04:53 PM.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Aug 2024
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From: Prescott Valley, Arizona
2013 SL550, 2018 Jaguar F-Pace
After being on the list for 3 months, I finally got the replacement fob from North Coast Keyless today. I have an appointment with my Mercedes dealer to get the fob programmed on Saturday. The fob from NC Keyless only cost $94.94 delivered (including the uncut key blank), and it is brand new. I'll update this post if the dealer gives me any grief for not purchasing the fob from them.
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Joined: Dec 2019
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Well... The saga continues. San Jose Mercedes says they cannot program the fob I received from North Coast Keyless. They wouldn't say why. I check with another local MBZ dealer and got the same response. I sent the key fob back to North Coast Keyless. They were great and gave me no grief about the return. I really like my car, but having to work with a Mercedes Benz dealer has been a real nightmare. They don't really help, they just provide excuses and then offer very expensive solutions. A lot of you guys may not think it's a big deal to pop for another key. I mean you were able to afford a Mercedes Benz, but I looked for quite a while to find a good deal on my car ($26.3k) and the price Mercedes wants for another key IS somewhere north of crazy to me.
Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 7,847
Likes: 3,496
From: Maryland
2015 SL400 (M276 Turbo), 2014 C350 Sport (M276 NA), 2004 SL500 (M113), 2004 Audi TT225 (BEA)
Well... The saga continues. San Jose Mercedes says they cannot program the fob I received from North Coast Keyless. They wouldn't say why. I check with another local MBZ dealer and got the same response. I sent the key fob back to North Coast Keyless. They were great and gave me no grief about the return. I really like my car, but having to work with a Mercedes Benz dealer has been a real nightmare. They don't really help, they just provide excuses and then offer very expensive solutions. A lot of you guys may not think it's a big deal to pop for another key. I mean you were able to afford a Mercedes Benz, but I looked for quite a while to find a good deal on my car ($26.3k) and the price Mercedes wants for another key IS somewhere north of crazy to me.
When I lost one of my keys, I knew exactly where. I had taken my truck to the landfill to get rid of yard trimmings. The key fell out of my sweatshirt pocket. I know because I had a Tile tag on it which showed the landfill as the last location. So, now I take only the key for the vehicle I'm driving. All other keys stay home.
Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 7,847
Likes: 3,496
From: Maryland
2015 SL400 (M276 Turbo), 2014 C350 Sport (M276 NA), 2004 SL500 (M113), 2004 Audi TT225 (BEA)
No, not XENTRY. You need a key programmer like one from AUTEL. Find a locksmith that can clone the key and register it to your car. When I took my 2015 to a locksmith, he tried, but the car was not listed among the supported vehicles on his AUTEL Key Programmer. 2014 and earlier models were.
Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 7,847
Likes: 3,496
From: Maryland
2015 SL400 (M276 Turbo), 2014 C350 Sport (M276 NA), 2004 SL500 (M113), 2004 Audi TT225 (BEA)
It appears that only FBS3 cars can be programmed using a key programmer like the ones above from AUTEL or LAUNCH. Here are the compatible vehicles.
https://qcar.x431.com/qcar/#/pc/deta...OiIxMDAxIn0%3D
https://qcar.x431.com/qcar/#/pc/deta...OiIxMDAxIn0%3D
Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 7,847
Likes: 3,496
From: Maryland
2015 SL400 (M276 Turbo), 2014 C350 Sport (M276 NA), 2004 SL500 (M113), 2004 Audi TT225 (BEA)
The interesting part is that the SL (R231) is not listed. Maybe that is why @Ozzie-95037 could not get his key added by a locksmith even if he wanted to.
Junior Member
Joined: May 2008
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From: PA USA
2006 s500, 2014 e350, 2009 Cayenne GTS
JettaRed, OP, and others thank you so much for sharing knowledge. I'm in the same boat with a newly purchased 2014 e350 with FBS4. I too come from a tech background and these replacement prices are rape. I have to say didn't think of AirTags but I don't use Apple. 
But wife does, so this might be the route. I can see why dealers don't want us bringing a key from online and possible hassle. My car has an interesting history, was hoping to find the previous owner as I really feel they have fob(s) and could offer money, but so far no luck. I was hoping for the jackpot where their home was stored in the Nav, but someone was smart and cleared it.
So just to recap this thread, the metal key is not really needed, right?
But wife does, so this might be the route. I can see why dealers don't want us bringing a key from online and possible hassle. My car has an interesting history, was hoping to find the previous owner as I really feel they have fob(s) and could offer money, but so far no luck. I was hoping for the jackpot where their home was stored in the Nav, but someone was smart and cleared it.So just to recap this thread, the metal key is not really needed, right?
Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 7,847
Likes: 3,496
From: Maryland
2015 SL400 (M276 Turbo), 2014 C350 Sport (M276 NA), 2004 SL500 (M113), 2004 Audi TT225 (BEA)
JettaRed, OP, and others thank you so much for sharing knowledge. I'm in the same boat with a newly purchased 2014 e350 with FBS4. I too come from a tech background and these replacement prices are rape. I have to say didn't think of AirTags but I don't use Apple. But wife does, so this might be the route. I can see why dealers don't want us bringing a key from online and possible hassle. My car has an interesting history, was hoping to find the previous owner as I really feel they have fob(s) and could offer money, but so far no luck. I was hoping for the jackpot where their home was stored in the Nav, but someone was smart and cleared it.
So just to recap this thread, the metal key is not really needed, right?
But wife does, so this might be the route. I can see why dealers don't want us bringing a key from online and possible hassle. My car has an interesting history, was hoping to find the previous owner as I really feel they have fob(s) and could offer money, but so far no luck. I was hoping for the jackpot where their home was stored in the Nav, but someone was smart and cleared it.So just to recap this thread, the metal key is not really needed, right?
Are you certain you have FBS4? How did you find out?
Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 7,847
Likes: 3,496
From: Maryland
2015 SL400 (M276 Turbo), 2014 C350 Sport (M276 NA), 2004 SL500 (M113), 2004 Audi TT225 (BEA)
For the SL and maybe any other Mercedes convertible, there is a divider in the trunk that must be in place to open the roof. Sometimes the sensors think that the roof is not closed completely (though it is) and you need to push the close lever until the car thinks the roof is closed. If the partition isn't in place, you can't "finish" closing the roof. You also cannot open the trunk electrically. In that case, using the metal key is the only way to open the trunk and move the partition back in place.
Junior Member
Joined: Feb 2025
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JettaRed, did you get your key replaced recently for $650? Or was that before inflation went out of control. At this point, even $650 seems like a bargain. Do you mind sharing the name of the dealership where you got the key made? I'm in SoCal, but maybe with proper verification they can make a key for a remote customer.
