Need to program a new key for your 1996-2001 Mercedes-Benz E320 (W210/W208)? With the OTOFIX IM2 Scanner, you can do it yourself – no dealership required! Whether you’ve lost all keys or just want a spare, our tutorial makes Mercedes key programming simple. Save time and money by following these proven methods. Let’s get started!
Tools Required:
OTOFIX IM2 (or equivalent like IM608 Pro2)
XP1 Pro Key Reader (included with the tool)
Infrared (IR) Key Simulator (APB102/APB125 for bench mode)
Working Key (for password extraction)
Blank/New Mercedes Key (compatible with W210/W208)
Step-by-Step Guide
- Obtain the EIS Password
- Option 1 (On-Vehicle):
Connect the OTOFIX IM2 via OBD.
Navigate to EIS Tools > Read EIS Data (may fail on older models).
- Option 2 (Bench Mode – Recommended):
Remove the Electronic Ignition Switch (EIS) from the vehicle.
Connect it to the OTOFIX IM2 using the IR adapter.
Extract the password from the EIS module.
- Program the New Key
- Load EIS Data:
Go to Smart Selection > EIS Tools > Read EIS Data (bench mode).
Save the extracted data.
- Generate Key File:
Select “Generate Key File” and input the EIS password.
Choose an empty key slot (e.g., Slot 7 or 8).
- Write Key File to New Key:
Insert the blank key into the XP1 Pro reader.
Select “Write Key File” and confirm.
- Test the Key:
Insert the new key into the ignition.
Verify steering lock release and engine start.
- Troubleshooting
- If on-vehicle reading fails, use bench mode (common in W210/W208).
- Ensure the key is blank/rewritable before programming.
- Double-check the EIS password- incorrect entries will fail.
Supported Models
- Mercedes E320 (W210/W208) (1996-2001)
- Extends to some 2014-2015 models, but newer systems require advanced tools.
Conclusion
Programming a key for a Mercedes-Benz E320 (W210/W208) requires:
✅ EIS Password (extracted via bench mode)
✅ OTOFIX IM2 Scanner & XP1 Pro Reader
✅ Blank Key (compatible with the vehicle)
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