Actually the 99 car is radio control and maybe also infra red. Could be both but is atleast radio.

One other point, the key has two functions that are TOTALLY unrelated. The first is the remote controlled operation of the locks, alarm, convenience features. The second is the electronic handshake with the engine management system; drive authorization.

The lack of batteries affects the first function, but has nothing to do with the second. IN OTHER WORDS, the drive authorization function has nothing to do with the batteries or their state of charge. One of the keys available is just a stick of plastic. It doesn't do remotes but does do key authorization for starting.

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Steve Brotherton
Continental Imports
Gainesville FL
Bosch Master, ASE Master, L1
33 years MB technician