Alarm deactivation key - SLK

[gpilko]

Hi

Does anyone know if it's possible to get a replacement for the alarm deactivation key for my 99 SLK. I'm talking about the 1 inch red plastic chip type key that you can use to deactivate the alarm in the glove box. I just rang a dealer up and they've told me you can't get those keys anymore, you have to have a new alarm, I'm sure I've read on here that you could buy them.

Also, I know this sounds stupid but is there any way of deactivating the alarm other than with this red key - such as just turning the key in the ignition? I'm a bit nervous as I only have the one alarm key and I don't fancy shelling out for a whole new alarm.

While I'm on a role... I have a Thatcham certificate of fitting included in the hand book, but it doesn't mention anything about category. Can anyone shed any light on the category, as it's likely to make my insurance cheaper if it's a Cat1 :-D

Thanks

Guy.

 

[mercman_1]

Alarm Deactivation Key

Don`t quite understand the problem!.The only time you need to use the alarm deactivation key is when you have a problem with the alarm. Inserting the alarm key deactivates the alarm and stores the fault on the chip allowing the dealer to download said fault and rectify.

 

[David R]

If it's an alarm, then it must be a Cat 1.
A Cat 2 is an immobiliser only.

 

[gpilko]

Problem is...

I'm now using my spare key as the plip in the main key has developed an intermitent fault, when the car wouldn't open with the plip I had to open it with the key - and set the alarm off. Now this is easy enough to turn off with the little red key, but if I lose the keys and can't deactivate the alarm with the spare am I up sh*t creek?

The dealer I spoke with suggested that there would be no way to deactivate the alarm and I would have to buy a replacement alarm unit. I'm hoping someone can tell me if this is true or not?

David R - Thanks for the info re Thatcham cats.

Cheers

Guy.

 

[SLinKyjoe]

David R - Thanks for the info re Thatcham cats.

Cheers

Guy.

I think you need to check the Thatcham website as even if a car has an alarm, it may not be thatcham approved. if it is then the above info is correct. altho having a tracker Echo fitted will bring it into line with thatcham Cat5. £699 plus fitting.

An idependant alarm specialist will certainly be able to disable the alarm for you. And they can fit a new one too. but it will cost. I assume the MB dealer will just replace the bits as that is the easiest option.

 

[gpilko]

I did as Slinky suggested and found a link on the Thatcham website which lists all approved OEM alarm systems:

http://www.thatcham.org/security/pdfs/compliance.pdf

I already have a tracker fitted to the car from the previous owner, but it isn't active as my insurance didn't require it. I think I might take a view on this next time my renewal is up though.

Anyone shed any more light on the alarm deactivation key - and more specifically if I can disable the alarm without it?

Thanks

Guy.