I want to post this DIY where everyone can see, but don't see a dedicated DIY sub forum, so here it is.
This mod is to swap the ROM chip from the old plastic key to the new style chrome key, the result is a functional chrome key that will take place of the old key; you will not gain an additional key. This will also work on other MB models, not just W209.
The key I use is from the 2006-2009 models with the round panic button. Ebay keys will work, just need to ask the seller if the key was tested and working, most of the ebay keys have cracks on the button, so ask and pay close attention to the pictures.
WARNING!!!!!! Do this at your own risk, not recommended if you have only one key and/or not have the proper tools and skills.
UPDATE 4/24/11: This mod does not work straight up for the keyless-go fob because the PCB configuration is not the same. I hope to figure it out soon. Will keep posted.
The procedure is as followed:
1. Open up your old key just as you would when you replace the batteries, do the same thing with the new chrome key, they are built the same way.
2. Pull out the PCB from the casing. On the old key, the board comes out easily by tapping the casing on your hand as you would do with a ketchup bottle. For the new chrome key, use a needle nose pliers grab on to the white plastic part and pull the board out.
3. Locate and remove the 30 pin ICs both PCBs, they look identical so make sure you mark the working IC from the old key. This is where skills and proper equipments are critical, you must not damage the boards or the chips. Also note the polarity/orientation of the IC, can be identified by a dot at one of the corners.
4. Install the old chip on the new board, make sure the chip is orientated correctly or it will not function, again special skill is required.
5. Clean up with electronics cleaner and dry your board completely with a hair dryer. Don't worry, you will not burn the board as long as you keep the hair dryer at least 8 inches from the board.
6. Reassemble and enjoy your new shiny chrome key.
This picture shows the chip from each PCB is swapped.
ATTENTION !!!! DO NOT BUY THE 2010 NEW STYLE KEY.
Regarding the new 2010 and up key style with the triangular panic button.
I opened one up today and was very disappointed as there is no interchangeable chip in this key to match up with the old key.
Apparently, MB had upgraded the PCB configuration, it is much simpler now with NO ROM chip that I can see.
Also, the casing is glued together so by the time you took it apart it will be in pieces; I had to use the ultrasonic tank to loosen the glue.
Damn MB engineers!!!!
This mod is to swap the ROM chip from the old plastic key to the new style chrome key, the result is a functional chrome key that will take place of the old key; you will not gain an additional key. This will also work on other MB models, not just W209.
The key I use is from the 2006-2009 models with the round panic button. Ebay keys will work, just need to ask the seller if the key was tested and working, most of the ebay keys have cracks on the button, so ask and pay close attention to the pictures.
WARNING!!!!!! Do this at your own risk, not recommended if you have only one key and/or not have the proper tools and skills.
UPDATE 4/24/11: This mod does not work straight up for the keyless-go fob because the PCB configuration is not the same. I hope to figure it out soon. Will keep posted.
The procedure is as followed:
1. Open up your old key just as you would when you replace the batteries, do the same thing with the new chrome key, they are built the same way.
2. Pull out the PCB from the casing. On the old key, the board comes out easily by tapping the casing on your hand as you would do with a ketchup bottle. For the new chrome key, use a needle nose pliers grab on to the white plastic part and pull the board out.
3. Locate and remove the 30 pin ICs both PCBs, they look identical so make sure you mark the working IC from the old key. This is where skills and proper equipments are critical, you must not damage the boards or the chips. Also note the polarity/orientation of the IC, can be identified by a dot at one of the corners.
4. Install the old chip on the new board, make sure the chip is orientated correctly or it will not function, again special skill is required.
5. Clean up with electronics cleaner and dry your board completely with a hair dryer. Don't worry, you will not burn the board as long as you keep the hair dryer at least 8 inches from the board.
6. Reassemble and enjoy your new shiny chrome key.
This picture shows the chip from each PCB is swapped.
ATTENTION !!!! DO NOT BUY THE 2010 NEW STYLE KEY.
Regarding the new 2010 and up key style with the triangular panic button.
I opened one up today and was very disappointed as there is no interchangeable chip in this key to match up with the old key.
Apparently, MB had upgraded the PCB configuration, it is much simpler now with NO ROM chip that I can see.
Also, the casing is glued together so by the time you took it apart it will be in pieces; I had to use the ultrasonic tank to loosen the glue.
Damn MB engineers!!!!