I finally received the new key from the dealer that ordered it for me. The packaging states that the key originated from Stuttgart, Germany but was shipped to the local dealer from MBZ in Grapevine, Texas. I imagine that the Texas operation did the cutting of the metal key and the programming of the Smart Key from the blank supplied by Stuttgart.

In answer to my question about the dealer programming necessary, the key worked perfectly right out of the bag. It remotely opened the locked car and when inserted into the key slot, it started the car. The metal key worked perfectly too.

If anyone has the misfortune to have to order a new key, don't pay extra for dealer programming before you actually try the new key as it is probably just a way for them to check its operation and get paid for doing it.

Thanks for your replies and Happy New Year to you all!

__________________
'76 240D-Sold
'78 240D-Sold
'85 300 SD, 165K-Sold
'88 300 TE, 165K-Sold
'64 Porsche 356C Cabriolet- under restoration
'86 560SL 124K Miles-Sold
'94 320E Wagon, 74K Miles-128K Miles JUNKED
'06 E350 Wagon, 84K Miles
07 SL550, 14K Miles