EIS/key problems - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

JCE · #1 01-04-2008, 02:02 AM

Over the last 6-8 months the electronic ignition switch on our 98 C230 has started acting up. Sometimes the tip start feature doesn't work, sometimes the car won't start, sometimes the key won't activate in the lock, and sometimes it won't turn all the way. The Indy read the codes and verified what the dealer was saying - bad EIS module. This translates to a new EIS unit, a 'special' one shot orange programing key, and a replacement metal key insert to go with the brand new black and chrome key (the old keys read out on the software as being unusable with the replacement lock current software version). And of course the usual "submit your VIN number, drivers license, etc" to verify that they can order the ignition switch and key tailored for my car!

So after the identity check, delay in parts shipment, and the sticker shock, the new EIS is in the car, the Orange key is now an expensive paper weight after doing the 3 minute programing job, the new $200 bling key works just like the old keys used to work, and the 2 old keys won't operate anything. So just out of curiosity, I tried the old valet key in the new ignition - and it works!

But why? If the old main keys won't work on the new ignition, (or the doors and trunk), then why would the old valet key work with the new ignition switch? The factory diagnostic computer says the old keys are not compatible, but why can't they be re-programmed? Yeah, yeah , the software says they aren't compatible, but tell that to the valet key!

Is there any way to salvage the old keys so I don't have to buy another tacky chrome key? Is there any problem with daily use of the valet key in place of a regular key? Does the valet key recode the antitheft each time like the regular keys? If not, is that why it works in the lock - it just parrots the last read security code? (Is this a weak spot in the antitheft system - a valet key will start any of the cars?)

BTW, the dealer says that MB will be happy to take back the orange key for recycling/reprogramming/reuse - but without any refund or credit. Not a chance. If it can be re-used, it should have been a returnable security deposit loaner item, or else a built in activation feature in the new chrome key - anything but a 3 minute one shot item that costs almost as much as a regular key!

Carson357 · #2 01-04-2008, 02:53 AM

the eis will still require correct programing using the mercedes factory tool even if you have the orange key. if this was done correctly all keys should work if they actually function correctly. or if you did program with factory tool, it is possible the inoperable keys inadvertantly had their key tracks disabled, but i think more likely incorrect version coding. as for the orange key, when we install EIS units for customers the orange (previously green) keys were given with a core deposit, which was always given with a refundable deposit, i personally like the chrome keys, they seem to be able to withstand dropping better, less plastic i guess.

JCE · #3 01-04-2008, 04:18 PM

I just got back from the dealership where I asked about the valet key. One of the Service writers joined me at the parts desk and they both said that I needed another new key if I wanted 2 keys, and that the old keys could not be reprogrammed. They saw the Orange key in my zip lock parts bag, and said if I wanted to turn it over, it was recyclable, but no refund. (same as they told my Indy) As they said this a supervisor of some sort was walking by, told them they were wrong, and that there was a $60 refund to my credit card if I wanted to turn in the key.

The 3 of them explained that the old keys were not hardware or software upgradable to the new lock. The factory computer had only displayed "software version incompatible" for the old keys, but the dealership said that it was the old key firmware/hardware as well. "A new key will work with the old locks, but the old keys won't work with the current replacement EIS" is what they claimed.

They said the valet key worked with the new lock because the "limited" info used by the valet key was provided by the new lock after it was programmed to my car. But the old keys didn't have the capability of receiving "all the additional security info from the upgraded portion(s) of the new EIS, which is why they won't work. Salvage the metal emergency door key portions and batteries, but the rest is trash."

So that is the story. And to think we all used to complain about the cost and hassle about replacing the ignition on a 124!!!