Permanent fault code for DAS control module
 

My 2002 SLK 320 started acting strangely after my Alternator was replaced. At first my key fob did not open my car, but then it would. Shortly after, if I locked my car with my fob then the alarm went off for a second. Then, while I was driving one day a really loud alarm went off. I pulled over and turned the engine off and that fixed it. Now the running lights come on as soon as I lock the door and there is no way to shut them off! I have unhooked the battery till I sort this out. My mechanic tells me that they found a permanent fault code in the DAS CONTROL MODULE SHORT CIRCUIT TO GROUND.

I called my Mercedes parts department for advice as I know that DAS units are no longer available for my model and year. They suggested that I call a LOCKSMITH who is VSP certified to "virginize" and re-program my DAS to possibly fix the problem....is this a smart tact to take???? Would I need to remove the DAS for the locksmith to do this, or could they just plug in?

If I bought a used DAS from another SLK, would a locksmith be able to do the virginizing technique so that I could use my old key with the new DAS? Or, would I have to try and find a used DAS with the key that went to that car?