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So about 9 years ago when we started dating she has washed my key to 2000 e55. Luckily at that time after drying everything out key worked for 9 years until she did it again 😆 yep washed and dried full cycle.
this time it's different though key opens and locks the car but when inserted into the key slot , it will not let me turn the key at all. What are my options here? Is there a way to program a new key in?
Get a new wife? Just kidding, take a copy of your title, registration and drivers license to your nearest Mercedes dealer and have them order you a replacement key, not going to be cheap though.
If you are in an area with multiple dealerships, have your VIN ready and ask for a quote. Be sure to ask if there is a programming charge by your service dept. If you don't have keyless go, call BS if there is a programming charge.
Point the end of the key fob at your cell phone camera and hold the lock or unlock button down. You should see the LED flashing in the camera field of view. If the LED flashes with the lock/unlock buttons but still does not release the key cylinder, it is possible the coil antenna on the key fob circuit board is damaged. The key fob uses inductive energy to power up the key fob to communicate with the EIS.
If no flash then open the key fob and see if the IR emitter on the front of the circuit board broke off (just in case, open the case over a paper towel or equivalent in case the diode is loose and falls out). If yes, inspect under high-magnification head loupes to determine the proper orientation (it is a diode, after all). Re-solder and test.
Photo of IR diode held in place with a clip as I soldered the diode back into place.
Last edited by bbirdwell; Jul 8, 2022 at 05:32 PM.
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key opens and locks the car but when inserted into the key slot , it will not let me turn the key at all. 
