Ignition key problem

[djroy]

Hi members, not sure if this is the correct post area for this, apologies if its not.
Can you help! I have a Vito 638 and noticed that the ignition key has a small crack/split in it, to the point were I am worried it will snap off in the door lock or ignition. The key has the small red inducer in the plastic end of the key so my plan was to go to the local key cutting shop and have another key cut, but without the inducer built in, as I would use that from the damaged key.............anyway had a key cut tried it in the door and works fine, but when I put it in the ignition, it wont turn, I took the key back to the key cutter who checked it again and said it should work as it is identical to the original, I have tried putting WD down the ignition but still nothing. Any ideas?
thanks,
Roy.

 

[ringway]

Have another key cut so that you have two spares.
Then, secure the inducer key (with tape or Velcro) inside the steering column cowl as close to the barrel as possible.
This will give the signal to the barrel to unlock and then the non-chipped keys should work as normal.

You might have to cut off the metal part of the key (leaving just the black inducer part) to enable a close fit next to the barrel, but as long as the inducer is next to the barrel it should work effectively.

 

[djroy]

Thank you I will try that.

 

[ringway]

Thank you I will try that.

I think using tape (ensuring there is no barrier between the chip and barrel) would work better than Velcro.

 

[Dec]

Is it possible that maybe you have lost the Transponder Chip?

http://www.ebay.ie/sch/sis.html?_nkw=MERCEDES VITO 638 ECU TRANSPONDER WITH KEY&_itemId=121336416930

Dec

 

[djroy]

Hi all, I have removed the chip from the damaged key and have glued it to the new key, and have put loads of black tape around it..................yipeee! works perfect and I still have the security on the van as the chip is still with the key.
Thanks to all.
Roy.

 

[ringway]

Hi all, I have removed the chip from the damaged key and have glued it to the new key, and have put loads of black tape around it..................yipeee! works perfect and I still have the security on the van as the chip is still with the key.
Thanks to all.
Roy.

But if you lose that key you are in trouble and I should think the only help you can get is from the dealer which will be expensive, especially if you require a barrel and key/s.
For even that basic key with the chip in it from the dealer, they will want to see your V5 and the key will have to come from Germany.
Then they will charge for fitting the barrel and ensuring it all works.

At least if you attach the chip behind the cowl, no one can see it and you could quite easily and cheaply make an isolator on a hidden switch or other form of contact like a jack plug.

 

[djroy]

Yes suppose you are right about that, I will invest in another key with the chip in it.
Thanks.

 

[ringway]

Yes suppose you are right about that, I will invest in another key with the chip in it.
Thanks.

Another key with the chip in will only be available from the dealership and you will need proof that you own the van.
As mentioned previously, I'm pretty sure the dealership has to order from Germany, so it will be expensive. IIRC a new key around 5 years ago was around £180!
Perhaps asking scrap/salvage companies if they have a van with two keys and ignition barrel might be a good alternative?
If the sprinter barrel is the same as the vito, that would increase your chances of a used barrel/key full set.

Good luck.