Wanted to make sure we weren't comparing apples to oranges..... Did you mean to say the metal "key" is available or the entire "fob" w/key, case, circuit board, etc? Last I spoke with my local MB parts dept., a few months ago, they did a "national search" for available stock at MB dealers. I was told there were over 300 available (fobs/keys). My parts guy seemed to think I had some time to decide what I was gonna do. He was of the mind set that 300 fobs for a 25 yr old Mercedes weren't gonna be "flyin off the shelves", so to speak.
Who knows? He could be mistaken.
BTW, in addition to the requisite documents, proof of ownership, etc., I was told they also need the actual automobile to complete the job. Unless there's a way to "marry" a new fob to the car with the proper scanner, etc. (assuming you have said scanner/knowledge)? So, short of a way to pair the new fob to the car, you can't just send away for a new fob by supplying VIN, title, etc. At least that's my understanding.....of course, I could be wrong.
I guess you might get the fob from one dealer? (for a better price) and have it married to the car at your local dealer? (for another price). Can't see how that'd be saving much green, though.
If anyone "out there" knows for sure, that'd be great. I'd really like to get a new fob/key for my '97 E300. And, if I didn't hafta spend 300 clams, even better. 2 complete, working fobs/keys is my goal.