hardyli

Is ordering from the dealer the only way to get a new key fob? I quoted around and the key fob plus programming for 15 E63S runs around $700-$800. Ouch

LILBENZ230

I was quoted $500 for a keyless-go key for my W212.. must be an AMG tax on yours?

maxusa

In my experience, albeit for a different Mercedes model, the smart keys are made to order through the factory. They make the blade, burn in the electronic codes, and also used to include an inert magnetic device molded in. Like an RFID. Cost was very high, like you report, and so it makes sense to insist on both smart keys or commensurate discount for pre-owned deals.

dubzAMG

Here in canada a new key will run you 650, key blade insert is 90, programming is another 100.

nota_amg

says they need programming...curious if they will actually work though, or for how long...

Maybe search for a locksmith that sells replacement keys and programs them? Got to be cheaper than the dealer still...

hardyli

I did some research. Those Amazon/eBay listings won’t work because non one except the dealer can program it and dealers won’t want to program a third-party fob. And no locksmiths can do it either. So dealer is the only way. Thank you folks though for the thoughts and comments.

thesaintusa

Too bad.

I bought 'replacement keys' for my Jeep off the internet for 10% the cost from the dealer, and just programmed them myself. Took 5 minutes (with both original keys present), but the dealer was willing to program the aftermarket keys for $100.

Too bad a dealer wouldn't program aftermarket keys for the MB. Would be nice to have a few extra, exp for a remote starter (where you have to give up a key).

TECHNICIAN

Dealer only, there is NO other option. Different dealers have different pricing though. Shop around

nota_amg

that's not true. there are some locksmiths that have the equipment and licensing agreements to sell and program new key fobs and even cut new keys, usually for about half the cost of the dealer. Do some research in your area. It's not a given that someone near you can do it, in fact, it's pretty rare, but they are out there in most major metropolitan areas.

thesaintusa

I haven't found one local yet, but suspect that they must exist. Otherwise I cannot understand why there would be an aftermarket for the FOBs on Amazon/eBay.

TECHNICIAN

You are 100% incorrect. Older MB cars sure some locksmiths can do it, newer FBS4 keys (which started in 2014) are dealer only. There is no backdoor workaround.

TECHNICIAN

Because people don't know any better and will buy things that won't work. There's a sucker born every minute

thesaintusa

Glad to have learned something important.

No end to the great info on this forum

barender

I checked two local dealers today for a spare key for my 21 GLE350 and got a range from $960 to $1050 for fob and programming.
The parts guy's wear a mask so you won't know who is robbing you. Seems ridiculous to me for a key.

nota_amg

Well, that I did not know. nevermind then.