Duped by Remote Fob Vendor?

[cewyattjr]

For my E300D (W210), I've had only one key fob/remote for some time now. Life being what it is, I figured I'd be better off with getting another and having it programmed for my car. Just in case!

After some Google searching I came up with a vendor "OriginalKeyless" in AZ. They actually advertise on a neighboring MB forum.

Anyhoo, just got the device, and it sure does look refurbished/used. Certainly not factory-new. Here's my concern: I've done some forum thread reading it appears that if a key has EVER been programmed for a vehicle, then it is done. It can never be reprogrammed for another? True? Should I even bother to head to a dealer and possibly end up paying them to tell me the same thing?

So far I've tried the reported "trick" of putting the key in the ignition for 90 minutes and no joy so far.

Of course after the fact, I've searched further and found nothing but horrible reviews for this vendor. Yep...a single Google search will do it.

Thanks for any electronic wisdom.

-Chuck

[TMAllison]

It is a paper weight unfortunately.

May be able to be used as a new case for your key's guts. Nothing mroe.

[cewyattjr]

Thanks, Terry. I wonder what the best way is to go about getting a spare remote? Call dealer, order and make an appointment I suppose?

FWIW, I found yet another vendor online selling a used key remote. I wrote them to ask how it could be worth paying $80 if it can't be reprogrammed.

[Junkman]

If you paid via anything backed by a credit or debit card, simply call the card co & file a dispute. I had to send hard copy by snail mail but got my money quickly. Disputes are one reason why I use a credit card and not a bank account for paypal. Bank accounts don't have the same safety.

I would like to ditch credit completely but have a couple simply to keep unauthorized people out of my bank acct.

[cewyattjr]

Thanks Junkman. I take it that we're all saying that it is in fact TRUE that if it has EVER been programmed before, it's a one-shot deal, and can't be re-purposed for another vehicle, yes?

[LandYaghtLover]

Wow, bad reviews indeed!

http://www.resellerratings.com/store/Original_Keyless

[Yak]

I replaced a Ford key w/ alarm buttons with one purchased online. The dealer couldn't get it to work. I found programming instructions to sync that alarm with the fob. The instructions for Mercedes were posted here and they may work for you. http://www.benzworld.org/forums/v-class/1286985-programming-new-spare-key-fob-remote-3.html

The instructions are copied from the site. I have no experience with M-B reprogramming, but the non-factory technique worked on my Ford.


The instructions were poorly written and it took several goes to work it out. I have attempted a rewrite below for any others with an interest.

How to Program Mercedes Remote Keys

Keys that have had their batteries replaced [or temporarily removed from the key] must be reconfigured to pair with the security system in the vehicle. Follow these steps:

1. Place key in ignition lock and turn to position 2 [all ignition lights on]
2: Turn key to off position and remove from ignition.
3. Within 10 seconds:
3a: press the Close [Lock] button and hold it down
3b: while the Close button is still depressed simultaneously press the Open [Unlock] button. Press and release the Open button 5 times [still holding the Close button down]
3c: Release both the Close and the Open buttons at the same time, and immediately push any of the two Open buttons once [i.e. either the Open doors or the Open Tailgate]

This information is for the resetting of a previously synchronised key to match the security system after batteries have been removed or replaced. This information does not work with new keys which it seems must be taken to a person with a key synchronisation device [or a super-ripoff-expensive MB dealer]

[cewyattjr]

Thanks, Yak.

My problem is that the key won't turn to position 2 at all. The LED light will blink when you depress the various options. If you press hold lock/unlock simultaneously for a few seconds you get two long blinks. I have no idea what that means either. Thanks for the link, lots of stuff to try there, but so far no joy to report.

[TMAllison]

You ought to be able to call a dealer with your vin and order one. Is the only way I know of to get a new key. Dealers are supposed to see your veh reg and ID before they actually hand it over to you.

I believe there are a finite number of keys (8?) available before you get to replace the EIS. EIS/DAS is good for something like 200k starts before all the rolling sec codes are used up.