Transponder generations
Mercedes uses its own encrypted key system linked to the EIS; key options depend on the vehicle generation.
Mercedes-Benz car keys, made at your vehicle.
Lost, broken or spare Mercedes-Benz key? We come to your vehicle, check the key system for your model and year, then quote before we start.
7 years of automotive expertise450+ reviews · Google & Checkatrade12-month warranty
Let’s talk keys
Get a Mercedes-Benz key quote.
Send your details and we’ll get back to you about your keys. For anything urgent, call us.
- Speak directly about your vehicle
- The right option for your key
- Understand the work before deciding
Supported models
Mercedes-Benz models we're asked about.
Open a model guide for generation-specific detail. Compatibility depends on the year and key type, so we always confirm from your registration.
- Mercedes-Benz A-ClassGuide coming soon
- Mercedes-Benz C-Class
- Mercedes-Benz E-ClassGuide coming soon
- Mercedes-Benz GLCGuide coming soon
- Mercedes-Benz SprinterGuide coming soon
- Mercedes-Benz VitoGuide coming soon
Our expertise
Mercedes-Benz key services.
01
Lost Car Key Replacement
Every key lost? We cut and programme a new one at your car — no tow, no dealer.
Explore service02
Spare Car Keys
A spare key cut and programmed at your car, before you ever need it.
Explore service03
Car Key Programming
Transponders, remotes and smart keys coded to your car on site.
Explore service04
Locked Keys in Car
Keys locked inside? Damage-free entry wherever the car is parked.
Explore service05
Ignition Repair & Replacement
Stiff, jammed or broken ignition barrels repaired or replaced at the roadside.
Explore service06
Broken Car Keys
Snapped blades extracted, broken cases and dead buttons fixed — same visit.
Explore serviceMercedes-Benz vs the dealership
A Mercedes-Benz key without the dealer wait.
A dealer may need to order a key from Germany and book the car into the workshop — sometimes meaning a tow if you have no working key. We come to your vehicle instead.
Where your model allows it, the key is cut, coded and tested at the roadside or on your driveway. If a step genuinely needs the dealer, we tell you on the call.
Technical deep-dive
Mercedes-Benz transponders and PIN codes.
OBD vs EEPROM bench read
Key data is commonly obtained by reading the EIS, either through diagnostics or on the bench. OBD programming works through the diagnostic port; a bench read means removing a module and reading its memory chip (EEPROM) directly.
Common Mercedes-Benz faults
What we see on Mercedes-Benz keys.
EIS and steering lock faults
The ignition switch (EIS) and electronic steering lock (ELV) can fail, so the key is not recognised and the car will not start.
Infrared key failure
Many Mercedes keys communicate by infrared. Internal faults can stop the car starting even with a good battery.
Worn key blade
The emergency blade still needs to open the door when the battery is flat.
FAQs
Mercedes-Benz key questions
Do I need a Mercedes-Benz dealer for a new key?
Not always. Many Mercedes-Benz keys can be cut and programmed at your vehicle. We check your registration first; if your model needs a dealer-only step, we tell you on the call.
Can you program a Mercedes-Benz key if I've lost them all?
Often, yes. All-keys-lost jobs can need the PIN or key data reading from a module. We confirm the method for your model before quoting.
Which Mercedes-Benz models do you cover?
We regularly ask about the A-Class, C-Class, E-Class, GLC, Sprinter, Vito. Compatibility depends on model year and key type, so we confirm it from your registration.
How much does a Mercedes-Benz key cost?
It depends on the key type, model and whether any keys remain. We quote on the call before any work starts.
What do I need to show you?
Photo ID and proof that the vehicle is yours, such as the V5C logbook or finance or insurance documents.
What customers say
450+ five-star / 10-out-of-10 reviews across Google and Checkatrade
Transit Custom Ignition Repair.
"I cannot recommend Alec enough. My transit custom lock was not turning. I did not know Alec at this point and called another locksmith. To cut a long story short the other locksmith attempted a repair and then gave up, leaving me with a van I could no longer use. I called Alec who came out next day; he repaired the damage done by the other locksmith and custom made a replacement ignition barrel so one key still does the doors and the new ignition. I couldn't be more pleased. Price was very fair too!"
Sam chapman
"Did the work at a 3rd of the price of the dealership and I'm sure to a higher quality, the work was quick and professional. Could not recommend more!"
Can work on most cars! Pricing is very reasonable! Fast reliable service!
"Absolutely spot on! After ringing about 15 different companies who said they couldn't help and one company even saying the series of my car doesn't exist I found smarttech who I contacted who could finally help! The next day he came out and I now have access and a new key to my car! Fast and efficient polite service! Highly recommend!!"