Question 1

Do you use OEM or aftermarket keys on Mercedes-Benz vehicles?

Accepted Answer

We use OEM spec keys that are verified for your specific Mercedes model and generation. On newer FBS4 platforms like the W205 C-Class and W213 E-Class, keys must be coded to your VIN. Cheap aftermarket keys from Amazon and eBay are hit or miss on Mercedes. One UK forum moderator stated that "the only place you will get a keyless go key for your car is a Mercedes dealer," which is true for some newer platforms but not for the FBS3 models we handle regularly. We match the correct key type, chip, and programming to your vehicle before we ever head to your location.

Question 2

How long will the replacement key last?

Accepted Answer

A properly programmed Mercedes key should last as long as your original. The electronics are the same quality, and the programming does not degrade over time. The most common wear point is the physical chrome shell, which can crack, lose button feel, or have the hinge break on flip-key models. One ML owner reported their flip-key blade hinge breaking and had to superglue the blade to the fob temporarily. If your shell cracks or the buttons wear out, a locksmith can often transplant the electronics into a new housing without reprogramming, saving you hundreds over a full key replacement.

Question 3

What if the new key stops working after a few weeks?

Accepted Answer

Call us. Every key we make is covered under warranty. If the key stops starting the car, loses remote function, or develops any issue, we come back and make it right. Mercedes owners on forums describe situations where dealer-programmed keys stop being recognized or where the EIS rejects a key after a few days. One locksmith described the problem as common when the wrong key generation is used. We verify the correct key, program it properly, and test it before we leave, then back it up after.

Question 4

How many buttons does the 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK key have?

Accepted Answer

Your 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK key has 4 buttons. We verify this along with the FCC ID and key generation before we arrive to make sure the key we bring is an exact match for your vehicle. Mercedes uses different key styles across platforms, and keyless go keys have different internals than basic remote keys even when they look similar from the outside. Getting the specs right upfront is how we avoid problems down the line.

Question 5

Can I trust an aftermarket Mercedes-Benz key to be reliable?

Accepted Answer

It depends heavily on the model year and platform. On older FBS3 Mercedes like the W204 C-Class, W211 E-Class, and W221 S-Class, quality aftermarket keys and shells can work well. One locksmith noted that aftermarket shells sometimes last longer than OEM on these cars. But on FBS4 platforms like the W205, W213, and W222, aftermarket blanks will not program because keys must come pre-coded from Mercedes. Many online "OEM" Mercedes keys are actually just remote shells without keyless go function. We use parts we know work for your specific platform because failed programming on a Mercedes is expensive to fix.

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