I have a 2001 C320. My independent mechanic was working on my car to fix a short in the windshield wipers and to replace the pedal due to a TPS failure (he has worked on the car and other Mercedes before). The phone voice suddenly came on when he inserted the key and stated "you are not authorized to operate this vehicle" and then completely shut down. So Mercedes told me the key went bad, therefore, I ordered a new key. The key did not work and when I called Mercedes back they told me the new key must be left in the ignition anywhere from 1 hour to 24 hours to code itself and for the car to recognize the key. Has anybody ever heard of this before? They key was put in last night so I don't know the outcome yet, but any advice would be GREATLY appreciated!!! At least I know nobody would be able to hotwire my car![8D]

 

was it installed with aftermarket alarm system?

 

No, everything in the car is original MB