The 1997 Mercedes-benz Sl 500, a pinnacle of luxury and engineering from its era, remains a sought-after classic. However, owning a vehicle of this vintage can sometimes present unique challenges, particularly when it comes to seemingly simple issues like key replacement. If you’re facing the daunting task of replacing a lost or malfunctioning key for your 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL 500, you might be encountering roadblocks and hefty price tags from dealerships. You’re not alone in this frustrating experience.
Many Mercedes-Benz owners of this generation, including those with models like the W202 (C-Class), W140 (S-Class), and the R129 SL, share similar key-related frustrations. One owner of a 1997 W202 C230 recently recounted their experience navigating this exact problem. Initially, their local Mercedes-Benz dealership claimed they couldn’t even order a replacement key. Persistence paid off when, after contacting another dealer to obtain the correct part number, the first dealership suddenly became able to source the needed key. This highlights a common issue: inconsistent information and service even within the official Mercedes-Benz dealer network.
Within a week, the pre-cut and programmed key arrived at the dealership, ready for use. The parts department manager revealed a crucial insight: Mercedes-Benz has become highly selective about key orders, often rejecting requests for reasons not immediately apparent to the customer. This selectivity is further evidenced by newer practices like delivering Sprinter vans with only a single key, indicating a broader shift in key provision policies.
Are you unsure if your key is the standard infrared (IR) remote of the era? Many 1997 Mercedes-Benz models, including the SL 500, utilized a similar looking key fob. Here’s an example:
Mercedes-Benz Infrared Key Fob – Example of a key for 1997 models like the SL 500, C230, and S-Class
This visual reference can help you confirm if you have the typical IR remote system common to these models.
Another 1997 Mercedes-Benz owner, this time with an SL600, is also currently navigating the key replacement maze. Having purchased their vehicle with only one remote, they are actively seeking a spare key with a blade. They’ve explored promising avenues like LA Car Tech, who might be able to connect them with a local locksmith in Victoria, British Columbia, capable of producing a new key.
Through research and contacting multiple dealerships in the Pacific Northwest (PNW), they’ve confirmed several relevant part numbers for R129 models:
- 1407602206: Master key with transponder
- 1407602306: Valet key with transponder
- BQ-4-76-0009: Remote with folding blade
While a brand-new, factory-made key is often the preferred solution, the associated costs can be exorbitant. The owner’s local Victoria dealership, Three Point Motors, quoted an astonishing $642.23 for the key itself, plus an additional $169 for an hour of labor to program it. This brings the total cost to over $900 CAD, a price that many would consider excessive. Compounding the frustration, the dealership refused to provide part numbers, citing internal policy – a practice that unfortunately detracts from the customer experience. This lack of transparency, especially for a luxury brand, can be disheartening and may even impact future purchasing decisions.
Despite these challenges, the good news is that replacement keys can be obtained, albeit often at a premium through official channels. For those seeking more cost-effective or alternative solutions, exploring reputable third-party options or specialized locksmiths familiar with Mercedes-Benz systems might be worthwhile. As the SL600 owner continues their search, they plan to update their progress, potentially offering valuable insights for other 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL 500 owners facing similar key replacement dilemmas. Stay tuned for updates and potentially more affordable pathways to getting a spare key for your classic Mercedes.
