99 300D with electric key will insert but not turn? Any quick fixes or is it a $500.00 key from factory. Thanks

Try another key if you have one.

Was the key dropped or damaged in any way?

Does the steering wheel lock retract immediately when the key is inserted?

If not, DAS is not recognizing the key.

Prob better to have it scanned with SDS rather than buying a new key, the key might not be the issue.

__________________
Terry Allison
N. Calif. & Boca Chica, Panama

09' E320 Bluetec 77k (USA)
09' Hyundai Santa Fe Diesel 48k (S.A.)

Do you get the "zzzipp" sound when you put the key in? If not then the car is not recognizing the key.

Note the DAS authorization chip is inside the key and is passive. It's the same chip IIRC they use for tagging animals. You would have to cause some pretty significant damage to the key to get the DAS system to stop recognizing it.

The batteries are for the RF/Infrared door lock functions. Nothing to do with the DAS.

Best bet is to find someone (indy mechanic or dealer) with SDS to scan the system. Unfortunately if you can't start the car you will have to get it towed in unless they are willing to meet you where the car is parked. SDS runs on a laptop, so it possible to bring it to the car.

__________________
The OM 642/722.9 powered family
Still going strong
2014 ML350 Bluetec (wife's DD)
2013 E350 Bluetec (my DD)

both my kids cars went to junkyard in 2023
2008 ML320 CDI (Older son’s DD) fatal transmission failure, water soaked/fried rear SAM, numerous other issues, just too far gone to save (165k miles)
2008 E320 Bluetec (Younger son's DD) injector failed open and diluted oil with diesel, spun main bearings (240k miles)

1998 E300DT sold to TimFreeh
1987 300TD sold to vstech