Key Re-Chip Service
(129, 140, 163, 210)

Many Mercedes have recently been showing up with bad keys, AAMs, N54/DAS boxes, and ME control modules. Data is scrambled, the immobilizer LED on the dash will not flash, and the vehicle no longer starts. Further complicating the situation is the design of the immobilizer system, which limits the vehicle to eight keys. Once all eight keys have been issued by the dealer, no more replacement keys can be obtained. The current dealer option requires replacing the ME, AAM/DAS box, buying new lock sets, and paying for installation and programming. BeckTech has introduced a service to repair immobilizer systems for the 163 MLs and most DAS2x vehicles, 1996 - 1999. These are the cars with the transponder ring pocket on the ignition.

Included in our price, we will copy and re-chip up to two keys for you, but you must provide them and they must be OEM, as we are out of stock and cannot obtain these anymore. We have valet keys to offer (will start vehicle) but they do not have remote electronic functions.

The service is currently priced at $950, and additional keys are $200 each. Keys must have a working circuit board in order for the central locking to work. We also need one original key blade from the vehicle to copy. Used circuit boards are OK, if sourced from similar vehicles (see FAQs below) and are electronically sound.

By sending us the ME, AAM/N54, and an original key, we can reprogram the modules and copy the key to get your car on the road again. When you receive the units and keys back, everything will be "plug-and-play".
 

FCC ID Example

The following items are required:

  • ME (Engine Control Module)

  • working AAM or N54 DAS box

  • One working, original key blade

  • Proof of ownership (copy of registration, title, etc.)

  • Completed Service Order Form

  • An OEM FOB w/ circuit board for us to program (used are OK)
     

$950

What caused this to happen?
The most common failure for the Key/AAMs is low voltage situations while starting the engine. This can be caused by:

  • A weak vehicle battery

  • Poor ground connections at the battery, engine, or chassis

  • Bad contacts in the ignition key electrical assembly

  • A poor fuse box connection

Does my AAM work?
Do you have a signal from the AAM to the ME? If not, before sending in your parts, you want to make sure you do not have a bad AAM. If you see no signal from the AAM to the ME, first make sure you do not see faulty CAN bus codes on other functioning modules, such as the TCM:

  • If other CAN modules are functioning correctly and have no codes, you have a bad AAM and will have to find a used+working one to send us to program in our service

  • If other CAN modules are not functioning correctly, the reason the vehicle does not start is due to a faulty CAN bus and that must be fixed first. (You can then, at your option still have us make additional keys, including the original AAM)

NOTE: If these potential issues are not corrected before the re-chip service, it is likely that the damage will happen again!

I'm out of keys or only have one left!
You can actually use keys from another vehicle as long as the year, model, and FCC ID on the remote match. The FCC ID can be found stamped on the back or side of the remote (pictured to the right). You may supply your own key blades if you have them from the dealership, but this service includes blades from us.

How long does this service take?
We can typically perform this service within one week of arrival. Include a completed Service Order Form for each part you ship to Becktech. 

FCC ID Example

FCC ID Example