Losing your car keys is more than just an inconvenience; it can throw your entire day off track. For owners of a 1999 Mercedes E320, understanding your key fob and having a backup plan is not just smart—it’s essential. Let’s delve into why preparing for key fob issues is a must for your classic Mercedes.
The Importance of Key Preparedness
Imagine this: you’re heading out for an important appointment, only to realize your 1999 Mercedes E320 Key Fob is nowhere to be found. Panic sets in. While the original key fob for your E320 is designed for convenience, relying solely on one without a contingency plan is risky. The original poster of the source text learned this firsthand and took proactive steps to ensure they wouldn’t be stranded. This foresight is something every 1999 Mercedes E320 owner should consider.
Plan B: The Manual Key Solution
The narrative from the original article highlights a practical “Plan B” that revolves around a manual key. Many 1999 Mercedes E320 key fobs include a removable valet key. However, if the entire fob is lost, this valet key is also gone. To counter this, the author wisely obtained a blank manual key from a Mercedes dealership.
Initially, dealerships might present hurdles in cutting the key, often due to security protocols. However, a skilled local locksmith with laser key cutting equipment can easily duplicate your existing key. This approach bypasses dealership complexities and is often more cost-effective. The author mentions a nominal cost of around $30 for this service, a small price for peace of mind.
The next smart step is to hide the original flat key (if you have one) securely within your vehicle—in a spot only you know. Carrying the newly cut manual key in your wallet provides immediate access to your 1999 Mercedes E320 should you lose your primary fob. This combination ensures you can enter your vehicle and retrieve the hidden flat key to start the engine, effectively getting you back on the road.
Plan C: Reprogramming a Spare Key Fob
The original poster was also proactive enough to explore options for a second, non-functioning key fob they received with their 1998 E430 (similar to the 1999 Mercedes E320). They discovered that locksmiths with the right equipment can often reprogram a spare fob, provided you have at least one working key.
This “Plan C” involves leveraging a professional locksmith’s expertise to bring a dormant key fob back to life. By using the working key and specialized tools, they can reprogram the second fob in a matter of minutes. This results in a fully functional spare key fob, which can be kept at home as an additional backup. Combined with the manual valet key in your wallet, you have multiple layers of security and access solutions.
The Takeaway: Preparation Prevents Problems
The core message is clear: don’t wait for a key emergency to strike. Proactive planning is key to avoiding stressful situations. For your 1999 Mercedes E320, this means taking steps now to secure backup keys. Whether it’s getting a manual key cut, hiding a spare, or reprogramming a second fob, taking action today can save you significant trouble and expense in the future. As the saying goes, prior planning prevents poor performance – especially when it comes to your car keys.
