I'm a little confused - need some clarification.

1) Is your key still unlocking the car via the IR sensor in the door handle?

2) Is your key unlocking the car via the RF signal when you do not use the sensor in the door handle?

3) Can you start the car with the key?

4) Did you follow the precautions on jump starting in your owner's manual? In particular, was the key in the ignition when the other car's battery was connected to yours?

5) Will your second key work?

6) If no key works, have you checked fuses that may be related to ignition? They are probably 29, 30 and 49.

7) If you have keyless go, try reprogramming the key - see How to Reprogram a Mercedes Remote | eHow.com

8) You could also try reprogramming your key (since it was originally programmed for your car; this will NOT work with a second hand key) - posts 27, 31 and 35 at http://www.benzworld.org/forums/w220-s-class/1592637-please-tell-me-ignition-key-4.html

9) If nothing works, you may have damaged your EIS (Electronic Ignition System) with improper jump starting procedures. It's expensive to replace, and requires dealer programming - so try the other things first.

 

7) If you have keyless go, try reprogramming the key - see How to Reprogram a Mercedes Remote | eHow.com

Skylaw , you are brilliant !! This point saved me $$$'s thank you so much !!




Manano ...

 

Skylaw--thanks for the reply. Here is additional information:

--The key starts the car and the car does not have any error messages other than the "Key Not Recognized."
--The car runs and works just fine other than the hastle of it not opening at a distance other than a few inches.
--The IR function of the key works, but the RF sensor does not work (ie: key wont lock/unlock if further than a few inches from the door handle).
--I do not have a spare key, but the key I do have is not a second hand key (ie Original MB Key). I will try to reprogram the key and see where that gets me.

-I did NOT have my key in the ignition when the other cars battery was connected initially, but put it in after a few seconds. I had a professional tow truck company out and I just let them handle it (and be liable) as I was in a rush. But I do not think that anything was damaged during the process especially the EIS as it operates

Again...thanks...I know it's got to be some small "electron" somewhere that's just not in sync after the jumpstart. Any other thoughts? I will try the re-programming and see if that works (and then update). Cheers!

 

Please update us on results.

Still confused; the RF function should work from many feet away; it does not depend on the door handle sensor at all, but works via an antenna in the shark fin (see http://www.benzworld.org/forums/w220-s-class/1834026-w220-antenna-system-key-fob.html ). It also doesn't open or close your windows.

The IR function is the one that operates via the sensor in the door handle. It locks/unlocks and opens/closes windows.

If it is the IR that isn't working, your door handle sensor may be failing; it may have slipped out of place a bit; or, there could be a problem with the IR transmitter in your key. When I had that problem with a '00, prior work on the door handle had moved the sensor out of place and limited range - when it was put back where it belonged, it worked fine.

Also, if you have very bright sunlight on the door handle, or if the key is pointed toward a bright light, range may be decreased.

If it is the RF that isn't working, I'd suspect the key you have. You may be in the market for a new one.

 

Sorry for the confusion: the IR function is the one that is NOT working. The RF function works. I am thinking that I will be in the market for a new key.

 

P.S Skylaw: Fast, Neat, Average...
I'm a professional ATTACK pilot myself...

 

Friendly, Good, Good!!

Buff pilot and Covey Fac in O-2s before law school.

If you really get ambitious, see - http://www.benzworld.org/forums/w220-s-class/1473235-convienience-close-summer-opening-fix.html - but note, not all W220s have the IR sensor on both sides. Newer ones have it only on the driver side.

And - you can test whether your key is transmitting IR very well by pointing it at a cell phone camera and pressing the unlock or lock button. Works with my key and iPhone 4! I get a strong blue flash that then fades somewhat if I hold the key down.

And since you're new to the forum - don't miss the W220 S-Class Encyclopedia sticky at the top of the main W220 forum page. It will save you time and money, somewhere, some time.

Speaking of which - negotiate the key cost. My dealer recently sold one to a good customer for $185. Another went for $215, as I recall. I happened to be behind both customers at the parts counter.

 

Even I did not know this, so thanks for that;

How to Reprogram an Audi Key
How to Reprogram a Car Remote

Print this article

Instructions

1

Place your key in the car's ignition and turn the key two clicks to the "On" position for any Mercedes car.
2

Press and release the lock button on your Mercedes keyless remote.
3

Press and hold the unlock button on your remote.
4

Press the lock button on your remote five times consecutively, while the unlock button is still held, at one or two second intervals.
5

Release the two buttons and wait five seconds after pressing the lock button for the fifth time. Press either the lock or unlock button once to finish the programming sequence.


Read more: How to Reprogram a Mercedes Remote | eHow.com How to Reprogram a Mercedes Remote | eHow.com

 

Battery Died Now Key Won't Unlock Doors from a distance

Thanks to jetfuel79, and skylaw , i learned a lot. I have the same problem when my battery died. No unusual messages were received, But both original keys stopped working from a distance. I like to ask jetfuel79, or anyone can answer, how can i solve this problem. Thank you

 

Thanks to jetfuel79, and skylaw , i learned a lot. I have the same problem when my battery died. No unusual messages were received, But both original keys stopped working from a distance. I like to ask jetfuel79, or anyone can answer, how can i solve this problem. Thank you

Just a few more ?'s before we/I can help

From a distance, does that mean they work when you're near?

What's the weather like where you are? Is it cold?

 

As Gabby06721 has alluded to there are some climate conditions that may affect the IR function of the key. As far as what can be done if it's not the weather, unfortunately the answer is little to nothing. If you have a trusted Independent mechanic than he MAY be able to re-program the key using some special functions of STAR. However, make sure that you HAVE A SPARE FUNCTIONING KEY in the event that the re-programming destroys the code in the key.

Assuming that no components died/broke when your battery drained, the best way to resolve your issue is to go to the (gulp) dealer and fork out the money for a new key. Just remember that when you do go to the dealer you will be required to show proof of ownership etc. of the vehicle so have such things as registration, insurance card, and your valid state ID with you.

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, it's just the way it is with this issue.

 

Hi,

Any updates to what fix this issue? My battery died and I have the same problem.

Thanks,

 

The benz local dealer recommends changing the antenna for the remote locking system.

estimate for repair was $2000+

 

Did that fix the problem or you haven't done it yet?

 

Merry Christmas to all!
Out of curiosity, have you folks attempted to reprogram your keys before going to the Dealership or replacing the antenna? The information provided by Skylaw and Eric appear to be clear and a very easy procedure to execute. I would at least attempt that before spending money on parts. However it is Christmas and it would be a very pleasant gift if it did work for you.

 

I've tried to reprogram the key with provided procedure (I have keyless go). This does not work for me. I have two keyless go. Keyless go function does not work as well as RF portion of the key. IR works and standard ignition works. RF receiver does not work. I've tried to reset ECU as well and this does not help. Also I checked fuses and they are fine.

I'm asking an MB merchanic (he works at MB dealer) friend to come to take a look at it next week and get his opinion before I take it to dealer. All indy MB shop I spoke to has not seen this issue before (few worked on keyless go before). I will wait for my friend opinion before I take it to the stealer. I don't trust indy in my area (besides indy aren't really that much cheaper than stealer).

 

I'm shocked and frustrated, why dealers are taking advantage of a small key programming problem that can be fixed in seconds. why? because they can .. a well respected and professional dealership would find the right solution and would not use a programming glitch to generate unnecessary costly work. Shame...shame..shame...

 

For my vehicle, the remote does not work from more than 5 inches away from the infrared but it does work when it is right next to the infrared on the handle

i have not tried key reprogram yet

JD: I have not fixed or attempted key reprogram

I also found this thread that seems helpful.
http://www.benzworld.org/forums/w220-s-class/1651484-headliner-removal-fix-remote-rf-locking.html

I must admit, I still need to read more about RF vs IR. I think right now I have them confused.

 

"Also: Door locks are controlled from the key by radio frequency, and will operate regardless of direction the key is pointed. The auto window/sunroof features are infrared, however, and operate only if the key is pointed at the small square IR receiver in the driver's door handle. The IR range is usually less than the RF range, and can be affected by bright sunlight directly on the door handle." Handy Resets for the W220 and possibly other models | Mercedes-Benz Club of America

based on this info, my locking only works with the IR receiver on the handle, it must be held very close, almost touching key to IR receiver.

 

My mechanic friend came by this morning and resync the key (2005 S55 keyless go). It works now. However he uses a different programming procedure than what was provided. Here is what he did.

1) put key into ignition and turn to position 1
2) hold lock button for 5 seconds
3) hold unlock button for 5 seconds
4) hold both lock and unlock for 5 seconds

repeat steps above in position 2.

Everything is working as it should. Keyless go, RF lock/unlock. Previously both my keys were not working but after this procedure (1 key) both keys are now fully functional again.

 

Almost 7 years later this worked for me....thank you and Merry XMas to me. 2003 CL55 AMG w/KG

 

I try all but my key won't unlock or lock the doors a inch from the door handle i bought new key from the dealer the same no change even with new key my IR works sometime and then stop work so i have to use the mechanical key so anoing where is the antenna module i may try unplug it see what's happen does some one know where is it?
I have 00 S500

 

Has anyone been successful at re-activating the RF (radio frequency) door lock/unlock system after a power failure (dead battery)?

I posted a detailed problem report before and apparently the moderators have seen fit to ignore it.

 

Risk777: Let me assure you sir, no moderator is going to ignore your Post especially Skylaw. Please understand that people respond or reply to Posts to either help, guide or report the same problem that you might be experiencing. No one is out to flame you personally. It was your remark implying "apparently the moderators have seen fit to ignore it." that is somewhat annoying. If you would please ease up just a little, you might discover that everyone that can and will help you. A quick review of your Posts on this Forum do not reveal you ever made a Post regarding this issue except for yesterday. Are you sure you were a Member when you made that Post?

 

Let's get something straight, Risk777. Moderators do not owe you an answer to your questions. Our job is to ensure that the forum's Terms of Use are not violated, and to keep matters civil on the board. Most of us are not MB technicians, and our job does NOT entail answering any question that might be posted.

No one pays the moderators to do this job. No one pays the members of the forum who might answer, either. Just keep that under your bonnet before you slam a mod, or a member.

 

I was holding my breath and waiting for this reply I think you do a grand job man, some people think mods are supposed to be all seeing and control the whole bloody forum.

However for a man who is not an MB Tech you give some damn good answers, and the sticky sections you have put together are perfect:thumbsup:

 

Count me in on that too! Skylaw, keep up the great work!

 

Hi all new to the forum the reason have been reading this post is have just been left a S class 500 that has the same fault but our problem is the battery went flat now with a new battery the key will no longer turn in the ignition.
We only have the one key the car is still in my fatherinlaw's name and it is 150 miles away don't help us living on the Isle Of Wight .
Has any one got over this problem before as the dealers will not want to know us as the car is not in our name and we have to get it moved by the 12th from where it is parked .
He had not long had the car himself only got to drive it 2 times it was all up and running OK when he last drove it beginning of December .
So far we have had a new battery put on the car but the key still does not turn any help would be very welcome as we are almost to the point of thinking it will have to go to scrapyard
Thank's Gord

 

Hey "Gord" and welcome to the forum! What year is your S500? You said it was last started in December and there were no problems prior with the ignition switch or the key unlocking doors ect..? You recently replaced the Battery, I assume your interior lights illuminate when you open the doors, but when you stick the key in the ignition it will not turn to position 1 correct? Does your steering wheel move when you place the key in the ignition? These questions I ask may seem silly, but I'm trying to determine if it is the Key, the ignition switch or shutdown of communication since the battery went dead, (which has occurred since battery went dead, but communication should have restored with new battery). Usually replacing the battery after going dead requires you to reset several features to restore previous settings. In this case, you can't turn the switch to do any thing. Will your key unlock the doors, the trunk? Need to verify the functionality of the key. It would really be nice to know more about the vehicle and operation prior to the dead battery, i.e... recurring problems with various equipment that might lead towards identifying your current issue.

Regards,
deucer

 

Hi thanks for the reply
The key will do nothing now had to unlock the doors with the blade part of the key .
I can get the dash to light up by pushing the R button on the side of it the dash also lights up when you open door . The steering is locked it is also stuck in park
The key goes in the hole but nothing else does not turn does not unlock steering other things work like boot lock release so there is power in the car .
We put new batts in the key fob as well as they where dim still nothing
The car is a 2003

 

Hi sorry just looked at your post again the car was 100% OK at beginning of December as he had just brought it a few weeks before then got told he had cancer he died on the 12th
Nothing on the key works apart from the blade part you can put the key in but it won't turn the steering lock is on it is stuck in park
The light comes on when you press the key so know the fob batt is OK now and have put new battery in the car

 

Have you looked back in this thread and tried the two different procedures to re-sync the key to the car?

 

What Wallyp is telling you to do is correct. It may still be the "key" is your problem. I'm sorry to learn of the untimely passing of your Father in law. You don't need to scrap your car either. If everything was working properly before the battery going bad, then logic says the key would be the first step in reviving the car. Have you reviewed the Encyclopedia for the W220 (located up above your original "Post"}? It has some great tips on troubleshooting and procedures to reset the key.

 

I have just looked back again at the posting's can only see 1 way to do the key but this would not work for this car as I can not turn the key at all to get to 1st position.
So am at a bit of a loss dare I swear on here but have always had BMW and you can do there key's from the dash we always took the mick out of each other .
I have been in touch with the AA they are a lot of help they will not do Merc but did offer to send some one out ?
I have been looking all over the net found a way to get it out of park sounds a bit extreme take gear knob off put rag over the top and hit the gear lever downwards with hammer while pulling it back ??? The vid shows it to work like I said seems a bit brutal.
this still brings me back to the problem of the key as I read it the steering lock is done on a servo motor so the key has to work or turn to unlock the steering lock ? they sure did not want anyone to take one of these cars .
Do you have any other idea's on how to get the key to turn as i have till Wednesday then it is move or scrap time as the car can not stay where it is parked .
The car does not have keyless start .

 

Looks like an EIS problem so get a dealer to tow the car, they know how to take it out of park. No one but the dealer can replace the EIS anyway, in the meantime transfer the car into your name legally thus I am sure the dealer will understand.