126 master key question
 

I recently changed the ignition tumbler in my 86 sdl because it was getting kinda catchy. The tumbler came with a correctly keyed master key minus the little red lug to indicate that it operates the alarm. I asked the parts guy if he could get a new master key with the lug and he told me no! Is this correct?? I don't fully trust this guy because he swore up and down that if i ordered a new ignition tumbler, it would not match the rest of the locks on the car and thats why it comes with a new key. Completely disgusted, i ordered it anyway... and alas, it was correctly keyed. So... has anyone ordered a new master key lately? and if so, did it come with the little red lug? I know its ridiculous, but I'm becoming quite the purist!

I ordered a new door lock from MB and it also came with a key... It works everything. the key with the red dot indicates that it is a valet key, the only thing it wont open is the glove box... (please correct me if im wrong, but im 99% sure)

If memory serves me the valet key was round where your hold it not 'squarish'. I had a new ignition lock a few years back installed on my ML55 and it came from the factory with a key...but it of course doesn't work to start the engine as it doesn't have a transponder. I seem to think the red dot on the key was only in the 80's and was deleted later on - even on replacement keys.

yeah, i think the valet key is the round one without the dot, and the square one with the dot is the master. Also, i think you're right... only an 80's thing. I guess the guy at the dealer was right, no longer available with the dot... i guess we cant have everything!!

The dot meant it was the master key for a car with alarm. The dot was eliminated around '93 and NLA. The square head still means master, and the oval head the valet key. The original one without a head is also a master key but without the plastic head for wallet or wherever you wish to stash a spare.