Can you reprogram a Key from a S class to an E class?

[tommy_a2b]

I have a 2001 E320 (my first MB, bought last month.) When I got it I received only 1 key. My parent had a 2002 S420 they sold but still have one key. Can I take there key and get it reprogrammed? The dealership is saying no but friends are saying yes. Does anyone know for sure, before I spend $225.00 for a new one? Your help would be appreciated.
Thanks from a new MB owner.

[Fast430]

As far as I know, it can't be done. Anyone else?

[chrisd56]

from whta the dealer told me and what i have heard here,each key is programed specifically to you vin number and can not be reprogramed

[sleepwalker]

no.

the key memory can only be programmed once.

every key have certain line and track. once it is used, you have to use the next available one.

if re-programming the key is possible, i can have a huge collection of mercedes-benz car now.
all i have to do is find the car's chassis/VIN number, program the key, and drive it to my hoard.

[michaeljacob]

dealership here in OC told me that it can be done, so long as your ignition system still has available slots... he told me to just give them the key next time my car is in for service, and they'll do it if there are open tracks in the EIS.

we'll see.
-mike.

[sleepwalker]

sure, there's plenty of free track and rail left.

5 tracks multiply by 8 key rails will give you as much as 40 keys. (S-Class)

[Peter Guenther]

Each key is coded to the car (VIN) and can only be used once! One of my keys on a 01 E failed (would not hold the spare key) my dealer read the body computer and ordered a repacement. The replacement would unlock the doors but not the ignition, they told me to insert and wait an hour, after an hour it would start but not run, told me to leave in run position and wait another two hours. It started and ran, but my second remote quit working, I called again. It seems they ordered the wrong one #2 rather than #1. The system no longer recognizes the old remote. Another visit to the dealer, and a three day wait, I am glad this is still warranty. I would wish they spent the engineering time on quality than this stupid system. M<y service advisor confided that they had to put some customers in loaner cars when they could not program keys (they all come from some central parts depot Baltimore I think)

[sleepwalker]

they have given you the "replacement" key whick takes over the previous track and rail.

never order a replacement key.

always order an "ADDITIONAL" key.

[michaeljacob]

yeah, the dealership said i could add the new used key as an additional, not a replacement. so, now i'll have three keys once i have it done.

-mike.