ignition key question

[elchivito]

So my 240 came with 2 door keys but only 1 ignition key. It's a replacement key, and the PO says he "believes" the ignition lock was replaced at some point. I'd like to get a few more keys. Will the dealer be able to sell me a key if the ignition switch has been changed out, perhaps to some aftermarket switch? Can a locksmith make a key? Other options? Having no spare is really nerve wracking as we lose keys around here all the time. In fact, my pasture gate and barn key ring is missing at this very moment. Prolly dropped it in a manure pile or left it in the gate padlock

edit to add: I've tried every key cutting place around here and nobody has a blank and can't make sense of the number on the key in their cross references.

[Brian Carlton]

The dealer can only make the key that was originally provided with the vehicle from the factory.

There are very few places that will cut such a key...........although they do exist.

If it were me, I'd get the dealer to provide a new ignition switch and a keys that matches the VIN. Now you'll have three proper keys...........

[Matt L]

You can buy a new ignition switch cylinder and key for quite a bit less than what I had to pay for just the key for my '96.

[elchivito]

Nearest dealer is 2 hours away. I'm guessing I'd have to show up in person with title in hand before I could order one, right?

[Brian Carlton]

Originally Posted by elchivito

Nearest dealer is 2 hours away. I'm guessing I'd have to show up in person with title in hand before I could order one, right?

Depends on the dealer. Some might allow you to fax it to them and then show the original when you pick it up............call and ask............

[strelnik]

Originally Posted by elchivito

Nearest dealer is 2 hours away. I'm guessing I'd have to show up in person with title in hand before I could order one, right?

Please give the details of your key. We have a shop here that makes keys regularly for 123, 124 and 126 models. It's about 6 miles from my house. Key blanks are all-steel, do look generic, not like MB keys, but they have worked on all my cars except the case of the 1950 170D. They don't have that one.

I also have another place where a girl who works there, considered my 1951 Citroen Traction key such a challenge she did it by hand over a week's time. She had such fun, she said, she charged me 2.00. I gave her 10.00 because I never expected to find that one ever again. It was an old key from a custom-made 1950's era custom steering wheel lock for French cars only.

Let me know if you want me to send you a blank, but first send me a note to find out what kind of make and model and year you have, maybe this will work, at best you're out a couple bucks.

[elchivito]

Originally Posted by strelnik

Please give the details of your key. We have a shop here that makes keys regularly for 123, 124 and 126 models. It's about 6 miles from my house. Key blanks are all-steel, do look generic, not like MB keys, but they have worked on all my cars except the case of the 1950 170D. They don't have that one.

I also have another place where a girl who works there, considered my 1951 Citroen Traction key such a challenge she did it by hand over a week's time. She had such fun, she said, she charged me 2.00. I gave her 10.00 because I never expected to find that one ever again. It was an old key from a custom-made 1950's era custom steering wheel lock for French cars only.

Let me know if you want me to send you a blank, but first send me a note to find out what kind of make and model and year you have, maybe this will work, at best you're out a couple bucks.

PM sent. I'd love to have a blank. If it works I'd love to have more. I can PP you the costs. Thanks!

[tangofox007]

http://www.key-men.com/shopping/show_cat.php?catid=Mercedes

[Yak]

Replacing the ignition with the 'correct' VIN matched tumbler and key from the dealer should automatically give you three keys - assuming the doors are original - one new one and the two existing keys.

It's an easy fix as long as the tumbler isn't broken (and if yours works, then it isn't) and it gives you a single key for doors, glove box, trunk and ignition. A new tumbler/key for the 123 runs about $90 from the dealer.

Since you'd pick it up in person with the paperwork in hand and maybe the car, the dealer should be able to order it via phone/fax.