My daughter tried to start her car with the key from her manual. It just turned over. Once she found her 'lost' key she says it just turns over and won't fire. I have been told that the key needs to be re_programmed. How do I do it.. daughter is stranded in another state. C280- 1996

You don't mention the year or model of the car so i'll assume it's a relatively late model.

if she has a "smart" key then the reprogramming, as far as i know, needs to be done by the dealer. HOWEVER, if memory serves, you should be able to use the flat key to start the car. I believe that was the point of the flat key.

Your best bet, unless someone else in the forum knows how the system works, is to call the dealership parts or service department and ask them.

Good luck!

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'94 W124.036 249/040 leder; 8.25x17 EvoIIs
'93 W124.036 199/040 leder; 8.25x17 EvoIIs, up in flames...LITERALLY!
'93 W124.036 481/040 leder; euro delivery; 8.25x17 EvoIIs
'88 R107.048 441/409 leder; Euro lights
'87 W201.034 199/040 leder; Euro lights; EvoII brakes; 8x16 EvoIs - soon: 500E rear brakes
'70 R113.044 050/526; factory alloys; Euro lights

I think that is the number, and talk to a tech. They should be able to tell you what to do. The number is also in your owners' manual.
Good luck!

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J.H.
'86 300E

Thanks, I will give them a call tomorrow.

Check this thread:

W140 Key Coding

Sounds like it might apply. Good luck.

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Earl McLain
'02 C230 Kompressor
'89 560 SEL "Frau BlueCar" (retired April 2004)

Thanks!! I called my daughter she went thru the reprogram process and the car started right up. Thanks for the help.