Is there any way to check the smart key on a 1999 C230 ?

Any repair shop with an SDS can test your key. Hopefully, you can find a competent independant shop close to where you live. I know from the last thread you started that you're two hundred miles away from the nearest dealer, but it doesn't look like you've got much choice.

Let me offer some advice concerning your situation. Order a new key. I know you don't want to spend the money, but like I said in the last thread, anybody who owns a 98' or later MB and only has one key is asking for a headache. I think you're finding that out now. If you get a new key and the problem isn't fixed it's not the end of the world. You can proceed to have the car fixed and you'll have a working back-up key as well as a new one.

For what it's worth, I see clients' go through the same thing as you're going through all the time. It's always the same story in the end. Most of the time the issue is resolved by replacing the key. In some cases the EIS (electronic ignition switch) needs to be replaced. Either way, you can't enjoy your car if you can't drive it. Let us know how it goes.

This is true I had planned on getting another key but it is hard to get off work twice in a week to drive to Memphis or Little Rock to get one. If it is the ignition does the car have to be taken to a MB shop for special programming I am capable of replacing it myself but does it have to be programmed. I am a certified GM mechanic and have around 25 yrs exp.

The key has to be ordered and programmed for YOUR vehicle.

You ought to be able to call and order one using your radio code as proof of ownership.

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

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

I know the key has to be programmed but my ? is the switch if the key does not fix it. A tow bill to the closest dealer would be over $1,000. And that is a little much.

I feel for you Tmaxxman. That's a tough spot to be in, but don't worry. Every problem has a solution, so let's take this one step at a time. Here's what I think you should do. Get a new key and see if it fixes your problem. If it doesn't, there might be a way for you to replace the EIS yourself, and then drive the car to a dealer to have the programming done. It's a lengthy explanation, and I don't like unnecessary typing, but if the new key doesn't fix the problem, post the results in this thread and I'll do whatever I can to help you out.