Infrared Remote key options for a 92 400SE?

[rsmcmahon]

I lost one of my Infrared remotes keys to my 92 400se. I stopped by the dealer to order a spare key and was told a replacement key is $179.00. Wow… ! I was also told I could not place an order for a “standard� master key. The only key replacement key I can order is one that is designed to install in the infrared remote.

I was also told the 92 infrared key has been replaced by Mercedes with a smaller (physical size) version with a keychain attachment. Since I have had to resynchronize the original infrared key in the past, I assumed other keys of the same type (infrared) could be programmed to work with my 400se by performing the resynchronizing procedure. So I began looking on ebay for a used infrared key designed to work with a S-Class mid 90’s model.

So I purchased an infrared Mercedes remote key of a later model S-Class on Ebay form the mid 90’s. I attempted to sync the remote but – it doesn’t work.

Does anyone know of other options? I guess I could just use the ebay remote (worthless) to hold a key made by the Mercedes dealership since the dealership can only order a key insert for the remote.

Thanks,
Russell
__________________
Russell McMahon

[Peter Guenther]

I got one many years ago and including the key it was $125. In 94 or 95 they introduced a new and smaller remote with a key loop it has to be ordered for the car they are coded but not the nonsense they go thru on present cars. I presently have the old style and two smaller ones and they work fine. The sync proceedure is in the owners manual. They also have a conventional key that does not need a remote. There were four options 1) key in remote infrared. 2)Normal key, 3) valet key (would only fit ign and lock)4) wallet key (no rubber head)
They changed a few times, an early 90s might work but no guarantee, the remotes are stamped with a number in the battery compartment of the remote. A good locksmith can make a conventional key, so should the dealer.

[rsmcmahon]

Thanks for the reply Peter. I stopped by the Mercedes dealership this morning and ordered a key insert for the infrared remote I purchased on ebay – I paid less than $10.00 for the used infrared remote. I won’t be able to use the infrared features to control the locks, but I’ll use the remote case to hold the key insert. Since this is a “safety/alternate key� I’ll live without the infrared remote features for now and continue to use my primary remote. Buying the key insert sure beats paying $179.00 for a new replacement remote. The key insert cost me $27.00.

As I mentioned before, I was unable to get the mid-90’s infrared remote S-Class to sync with my 92 400se.

I thought I would post the below information incase anyone wants to read about the S-Class infrared remote functions. As you can see, don’t waste your money purchasing a used Infrared key.

Function
The infrared remote control can only be operated with the transmitter belonging to the vehicle since the transmitter and the control module installed in the vehicle are matched to one another.

The transmitter transmits the transmitter signal to the receiver as an infrared light beam. The receiver receives the light beam, filters out light from external sources, amplifies the transmitter signal and passes it on to the control module via a control line.

The transmitter signal consists of a fixed code which is additionally coded by a computer. This additional coding changes with each operation. It is thus not possible to decode the transmitter signal.

The control module decodes the transmitter signal and, if the fixed code is correct, operates the central locking, the convenience feature and the anti-theft alarm system. At the same time the control module adjusts to the next transmitter signal and blocks the previous transmitter signal.

If the transmitter is operated outside the reception range, the current transmitter signal changes in the transmitter but not in the control module. If the transmitter is used again in the reception range, the transmitter signal does not agree with that expected by the control module. However since the control module can calculate 250 further switchings, it adjusts to the current transmitter signal.
If the transmitter has been operated outside the reception range more than 250 times, the transmitter must be resynchronized. See: Keyless Entry Transmitter\Service and Repair
NOTE: When replacing the control module or the transmitter key, always quote the locking mechanism number, since these two components are tuned to each other.

[Benz-Friend]

rsmcmahon:

I purchase a 1992 600SEL last December and one of the very first things I did was go to the dealer and order a regular master key. I just showed the car title to the parts man (as proof of ownership) and he took down the VIN and had a standard key for me in about 4 days. I don't know why you would be told it could not be done...unless they've changed things in the last six months. I have two remotes...but I love that standard key on my key ring.

[Benz-Friend]

rsmcmahon:

I purchase a 1992 600SEL last December and one of the very first things I did was go to the dealer and order a regular master key. I just showed the car title to the parts man (as proof of ownership) and he took down the VIN and had a standard key for me in about 4 days. I don't know why you would be told it could not be done...unless they've changed things in the last six months. I have two remotes...but I love that standard key on my key ring.[:)]