The contact owns a 1998 Mercedes Benz ML320. The contact stated that the vehicle was being repaired by an independent mechanic for unrelated issues when she was informed that the ignition key needed to be replaced because it no longer functioned properly. The contact was not informed as to why the failure occurred. The key was not replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and the contact was informed that in order to remedy the failure, the vehicle would need an entire new ignition system. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 180,000. The consumer discovered during research that merceds Benz installed an inadequate computer system in her vehicle. The system would only allow eight keys to be made for the lifetime of the vehicle. The consumer felt it was a scam by mb to force their customers to purchase a new computer, ignition, etc, for the vehicle after the 8th key had been made. They claimed it was made that way for security reason. The consumer called two dealerships and was given a price of $4,000 to $5,000. The consumer finally had the key, computer and other parts replaced by a locksmith for $1,400. The radiator, air condition and two mirror also had to be replaced. Updated 07/11/12

- Dunwoody, GA, USA