Mercedes-Benz E-Class Quiz
On-board computer and displays

Keys

In this manual: On-board computer and displays
Introduction — 5At a glance — 6Safety — 25Opening and Closing — 17Seats, steering wheel and mirrors — 12Lights and windshield wipers — 11Climate Control — 11Driving and parking — 44On-board computer and displays — 29Stowing and Useful Information. Good to Know — 1Stowing and Useful Information. Storage Options — 10Stowage and convenience features. Convenience features — 7Maintenance and care — 11Roadside assistance — 13Wheels and tires — 13Technical data — 13
~2min read

This section on the key of the Mercedes E-Class (4th generation, W212, 2009–2016) explains warning messages for problems with KEYLESS-GO and the ignition key. Drivers receive guidance on how to proceed safely in the event of recognition faults or a flat battery. This keeps the vehicle functioning at all times.

Display messages Possible causes/consequences and solutions
Key does not belong to this vehicle You have inserted the wrong key into the ignition lock.

Use the correct key.
Replace key The key must be replaced.

Consult a qualified specialist workshop.
Replacing the key battery

The battery of the KEYLESS-GO key is discharged.

Replace the batteries.
Key not detected (red display message) The KEYLESS-GO key is not in the vehicle.

A warning tone also sounds.

When the engine is switched off, you cannot lock the vehicle centrally and cannot start the engine.

Stop immediately and safely.

Secure the vehicle against rolling away.

Locate the KEYLESS-GO key.

A strong radio source is interfering, so the KEYLESS-GO key is not detected while the engine is running.

A warning tone also sounds.

Stop immediately and safely.

Secure the vehicle against rolling away.

Insert the key into the ignition lock and drive in key mode.
Key not detected (white display message) The KEYLESS-GO key is currently not detected.

Change the position of the KEYLESS-GO key in the vehicle.

If the KEYLESS-GO key is still not detected:

Operate the vehicle with the key in the ignition lock.
Remove the start button, insert the key. The KEYLESS-GO key is permanently not detected.

KEYLESS-GO is temporarily malfunctioning or defective. A warning tone also sounds.

Insert the key into the ignition lock and turn it to the desired position.

Consult a qualified specialist workshop.

The key system of the Mercedes E-Class W212 (model years 2009–2016) combines comfort and security. Whether conventional key operation or KEYLESS-GO, everything is designed to make access to the vehicle simple and secure.

Warning messages in the display reliably inform the driver about problems with the key or the key battery and help prevent malfunctions.

Test yourself

A quick Mercedes-Benz E-Class quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.