lost my keys!

[mnorton]

I have lost my keys, and I haven't got spares - I lost them on a stag do in Madrid! Car is in UK tho, but is there a way, assuming that the ignition barrel has been changed since it was born, that I can sort it without dismantling entire column - any ideas gratefully tried out. 1983 300 td.

[Jim Anderson]

You might be able to go to a dealer and show them the VIN, proof of ownership and money, and be able to get a replacement key, and may I suggest getting several

[Bear]

If dealer is no help ,I once managed to get into and drive away my 300D with my nissan cabstar keys.only realised mistake when alarm went off!Hope this has been of some use.

[Jim Anderson]

I know MB's are different on either side of the pond, are the keys different too?

[Bear]

I don't think the keys are different, but my Nissan keys were the same shape as the Merc's.Of course after 194,000 miles my locks are starting to wear out ! I've just recently changed the drivers door lock for this self same reason.If MNORTON takes log book to dealers they should be able to order him a key.Sorry that I can't be of more help.

[Lebenz]

As Jim pointed out you can order replacements from any MB dealer. If you know the folks at a dealership you can just call it in, otherwise they (understandably) need proof of ownership and location. I know the folks at my dealership and ordered some keys over the phone. It took about a week for them to show up. You can shorten that a lot by using priority overnight shipping. You might even call 1-800-222-0100 (MB client assistance center) and explain it to them. They are very accommodating folks!

Good luck!

[mnorton]

Thanks people - waiting for keys to arrive from merc, ordered via log book - I just hope the barrel hasn't been changed during its life - not too bothered about doors, can change these ok, but don't want to dismantle the entire column and drill off lock etc. I am never, ever going to procrastinate about buying that 2nd set again!

I might nip down the boneyard and see if I can borrow a fistful of old keys, you never know your luck - any cabstars I'll try first.