Spare Key for an ML W163

[bhartv]

All, before forking out £170+VAT on ordering a spare key for my ML W163 2004 (excluding the cost of labout on top to reprogram), I wanted to ask the forum members the following question.

Is it possible to buy a key from a breaker or from Ebay for a lot less and then have this re-prgrammed into my car or is it that every keyfob is unoque to the car for which it's made?

Also, I believe that the actual key blade would need to be changed - question here is whether or not I could easily get the blade replaced with a new one? Not sure if someone could recommend who could cut the new blade and whether it's an easy thing or not to swap the blade with the one on the key from Ebay or the breaker's yard?

Thx

 

[BlackC55]

Only available from dealers not ebay. Second hand keys cannot be re-programmed as yet.

 

[h780]

Is this still the case? I know some of the aftermarket key companies were trying to develop a fix. I've recently bought a W163 with just one key and I'd rather not pay dealer prices for a second one.

 

[grumpyoldgit]

Only available from dealers not ebay. Second hand keys cannot be re-programmed as yet.

^ +1


I've heard of companies other than main dealers who can supply these, (new, not second hand or ebay) and they are only slightly cheaper than the dealer, but I've also read of cases where these have failed after a relatively short time, so decide which is the better option for you and if the risk is worth taking.

A new fob and blade from the dealer comes pre-programmed and the blade pre-cut, costs £227 inc VAT.

You will need V5 / Proof of Identity (Passport/Driving Licence) / Utility Bill. Takes about 5 working days to arrive at the dealers.

3 Button Fob £162.50
Metal Blade .. £26.67
VAT @ 20% ..£37.83

Expensive but the only way to go!

 

[h780]

Does the dealer do any other type of key? I've moved over from a BMW where I had 2 remote keys, one "valet" key (included transponder but not remote) and one plastic "wallet" key (turned the locks but wouldn't disable the alarm or immobiliser - I guess just in case you locked all your keys in the car.

I could like with one remote key and one valet key if Merc does something similar.

 

[Benzmanc]

Does the dealer do any other type of key? I've moved over from a BMW where I had 2 remote keys, one "valet" key (included transponder but not remote) and one plastic "wallet" key (turned the locks but wouldn't disable the alarm or immobiliser - I guess just in case you locked all your keys in the car.

I could like with one remote key and one valet key if Merc does something similar.

Just get the metal blade then if all you want to do is get in the car

 

[snail]

I could like with one remote key and one valet key if Merc does something similar.

MB don't do valet keys AFAIK. The metal blade is solely to get you in the car if the batteries fail in the remote. You still need the key transponder to turn on the ignition, that uses power from the car battery.

 

[Alban]

if you need a blank key or other key tools, I think you can browse the allobd2.com, maybe you can get the tools that you want.

 

[Vlad]

All, before forking out £170+VAT on ordering a spare key for my ML W163 2004 (excluding the cost of labout on top to reprogram), I wanted to ask the forum members the following question.

Im surprised you're getting the key for £170+vat as the normal key rate seems to be £220+vat