I just acquired a sweet little 1997 C-280. There is only one key (the "switchblade type with "remote" to unlock doors) so I went to Smythe European in San Jose today to order a new one. (Having ordered one of the "electronic keys" for a 1999 C-230K a few years ago at a cost of $200, I was aware that the "keyless" ones were kinda expensive).

I walked into the Parts Dept. and this very young lady tells me "those are over $300 - how many would you like?" She didn't even ask what year or anything. I said that at $300 I didn't want ANY.
I went outside, called the other dealer in San Jose and another young lady helped me out. She asked all of the right questions but still quoted $254. DANG!

Is this REALLY what they cost? The second young lady told me that this was a one-year only type of remote, which I am finding difficult to believe too.

Is there a way to buy one used (Ebay, Craigslist, dismantler / wrecking yard) and have it "programmed"???

PLEASE tell me that there is an option besides paying $254. The thing is, the dumb thing is so thick I don't even WANT to carry this in my pocket. I would rather just have a regular key but the driver's door doesn't even have a mechanical lock!!!

Anyone have any insight on this situation? Do I have any options?

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Jay Yambrovich
Scotts Valley, CA.

1993 300 CE Cabriolet (A124) 131K miles
1997 C-280 133K miles

2000 BMW R1100RT 69K miles
1989 300 E 216K miles (sold)

yikes... i'd fit a mechanical lock in there...

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85 190E 2.3(SOLD)
86 230E (-->300D) sold
87 300D (-->300TD) sold
68 250S w/ a 615 and manual tranny (RIP)
87 300TD (SOLD)
95 S280 "The KRAKEN" (Turbo 2.9 602 transplant) traded
86 190E 2.3... current project

The 1997 C-class did use a different key than any other year C-class.

The key transmits a signal info into the chrome ring around the ignition tumbler & that signal allows the car to start. MB calls that DAS (drivers authorization system).

You can purchase a wallet key that has that ability as well.

I wouldn't own one of those cars w/o having at least 2 keys with that signal ability!!

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MERCEDES Benz Master Guild Technician (6 TIMES)
ASE Master Technician
Mercedes Benz Star Technician (2 times)
44 years foreign automotive repair
27 Years M.B. Shop foreman (dealer)
MB technical information Specialist (15 years)
190E 2.3 16V ITS SCCA race car (sold)
1986 190E 2.3 16V 2.5 (sold)
Retired Moderator

Yup . Keep one in the safe until the other one falls apart (I speak from experience

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former: 83 300D, 97 C230, 93 400E

current: 08 C300 Luxury , 92 500SL

I bought one for a w126 and w140 99 and batteries $360.Turns out my remote electric red light is damaged.The eye on door handle too I will polish out.

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1999 w140, quit voting to old, and to old to fight, a god damned veteran

Is there any way to disable the DAS (drivers authorization system), the same way some of us disable the alarm? Let's face it, after the car loses its value, the cost/benefit of maintaining the DAS isn't worth it.