1997 S420 duplicate key

[Mike1953]

I just bought an 1997 S420. Love it. Got one key with it. I want a dupe. Dealer wants $300 for the dupe + $150 to program it. Is there any other way around a $450 bill for a duplicate key and chip?

[Stretch]

In the UK many a local locksmiths will be able to do this for you. See for example

Car Key Cutting - Need Replacement Car Keys? | Find a Auto Locksmith

I have no idea if this is done in the US of A though...

[97 SL320]

Does this car use a standard metal key or is it a fob that you insert into the ignition lock? A 97 should have DAS X this is a metal key with a RFID chip inside or a switchblade key with a single button locking remote.

If standard metal key, do you want remote locking or can you live with a regular key?

If a regular key is all you want, you can order a "flat key" for about $ 35 and no programming is needed. This key will unlock and start the car. The chip comes preprogrammed.

If you want remote unlocking, the "switchblade key" is about $ 150, programming of the remote function consists of pressing the button twice then starting the car. The remote is infra red so it must be pointed towards the red / green lock status LED in the door handle / trunk lid / sometimes rear view mirror.

An any event, you must provide proof of ownership when you order and the keys come from a MB parts depot.

[Zulfiqar]

Originally Posted by Stretch

In the UK many a local locksmiths will be able to do this for you. See for example

Car Key Cutting - Need Replacement Car Keys? | Find a Auto Locksmith

I have no idea if this is done in the US of A though...

I have not run across any locksmith in the USA willing to do that on MB, however I have seen a locksmith in UK use a smart key with a pig tail cable going to a hand held unit, which then he commanded to spit out a code.

He then got a code - put it in a small key holder with new blank key, released it - put it back into the key reciever on the dashboard - waited for the little red lamp on the key to go out and then was able to start the car.

[AnthonyTyler]

Originally Posted by Zulfiqar

I have not run across any locksmith in the USA willing to do that on MB, however I have seen a locksmith in UK use a smart key with a pig tail cable going to a hand held unit, which then he commanded to spit out a code.

He then got a code - put it in a small key holder with new blank key, released it - put it back into the key reciever on the dashboard - waited for the little red lamp on the key to go out and then was able to start the car.

That is a new way to do it. Seem like a quick trick for sync a new key.

[halman2228]

at MB Houston North. About $240 with my MBCA discount, no extra programming charge.

You will need title or registration to prove ownership and have to take the car in when the key comes in (about 3 days or so).

Kevin