Do you need to reprogram the key if you change the gear shifter?

MYVANS

MEMBER
2004 MERCEDES BENZ S500
200,000 MILES

My key fob got wet, so I dried it out and when I put the fob in the ignition it won't turn. The last time this happened was because the heater fan fuse blew. I checked the fuses and found that none of them were blown but the fuses under the passenger seat got wet. Also, what can be the problem with the car, the key fob works? Also, I had to replace the gear shifter. Do you need to reprogram the key if you change the gear shifter?

Sunday, July 31st, 2022 AT 9:27 PM

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,077 POSTS

Hi,

There is no reprogramming for the shifter. I have a question. You indicated the rear fuse box got wet. How wet was it? That is where the power to the electronic starter control module comes from. However, we need to work backward to the power source.

There is a 60-amp fuse under the hood, fuse 2, that powers the starter control module. Check to make sure that fuse hasn't failed. Also, confirm there is power to and from it.

Here is a link you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-fuse

If that is good, then I need you to go to the fuse box on the right side of the dash and check to see if the fuses I highlighted in the last pic below have power.

Let me know.

Joe

See pics below. Note: The schematic pics show the wire/fuse trail to the module.

Images (Click to make bigger)