Losing or damaging your key for a classic 1997 Mercedes-benz Sl 500 can be more than just an inconvenience; it can feel like a step back in time when faced with modern dealership procedures and costs. Owners of these iconic R129 models often encounter hurdles when seeking replacement keys, a situation highlighted in online forums by fellow enthusiasts.
One Mercedes-Benz owner recently shared their experience navigating this issue with a similar era vehicle, a 1997 C230 (W202). Initially facing dealer roadblocks regarding part availability, persistence and resourceful part number research proved crucial. They discovered that while dealerships might initially claim unavailability, providing the correct part number could unlock the solution. Interestingly, the parts manager noted Mercedes-Benz’s increasingly selective approach to key production, even limiting new Sprinter vans to a single key.
Mercedes Benz Key
Another 1997 SL owner, specifically with an SL600, echoed these frustrations, seeking clarity on part number interchangeability between models like the R129 SL, W140 S-Class, and W202 C-Class, all sharing similar infrared (IR) remote designs of that period. Having acquired their SL600 with only one remote, they aimed to obtain a spare key with a blade. While third-party options like LA Car Tech offered potential solutions, the allure of a brand-new factory key remained strong.
However, dealership quotes can be shockingly high. One owner was quoted over $900 CAD (approximately $670 USD) by a Victoria, BC dealership (Three Point Motors) for a new key and programming, a cost deemed “outlandish.” Compounding the issue, the dealership refused to disclose part numbers, a policy hindering owners seeking alternative solutions. Despite this, they confirmed key creation is possible, albeit at a premium.
For R129 SL models, part numbers 1407602206 (master key w/ transponder), 1407602306 (valet key w/ transponder), and BQ-4-76-0009 (remote with folding blade) have been identified. Whether these are directly interchangeable or programmable across different models of that era requires further investigation, but they offer a starting point for owners struggling with key replacement for their 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL 500. Exploring both dealership channels with part numbers and specialized third-party services might be necessary to find the most cost-effective and efficient solution for getting back on the road with a reliable key for your classic Mercedes.
