2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Key Fob Programming Guide

As an ASE-certified electrical technician and professional locksmith, I’ve worked on countless commercial vehicles. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a staple for fleets, van-lifers, and contractors alike. However, when it comes to the electronics—especially the Drive Authorization System (DAS)—Mercedes does not mess around. If you’ve lost a key, need a spare, or are dealing with a dead key fob for your 2017 Sprinter, you need to understand exactly what you are up against.

Here is the definitive guide to replacing and programming your 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter key fob.

Quick reference

Step-by-step on-board programming

Can you program a 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter key fob yourself? The short answer is no.

Unlike older domestic vehicles where you could cycle the ignition and press a few buttons to pair a new remote, the 2017 Sprinter operates on Mercedes’ advanced immobilizer network (FBS3 or early FBS4, depending on the exact build date and chassis). This system tightly integrates the remote locking functions with the engine immobilizer.

Because of this high-security encryption:

1. There is no DIY on-board programming sequence. Cycling the key, opening the doors, or pressing buttons will not pair a new transponder or remote to the vehicle.
2. Specialized equipment is required. To program a key, a technician must read the EZS/EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) data, calculate a key password, and write that data to a blank key track.
3. Only a dealer or a specialized automotive locksmith with advanced programmers (like an Autel IM608, VVDI MB Tool, or Mercedes XENTRY system) can perform this task.

If your remote suddenly stopped working but still starts the van, you likely just need a new battery.

Battery replacement

Replacing the battery is a quick, DIY-friendly task that takes less than two minutes. The 2017 Sprinter flip key takes a single CR2025 battery.

1. Flip the key blade open by pressing the silver release button.
2. Locate the battery cover inside the channel where the key blade usually rests.
3. Pry off the battery cover. You can use your thumb or a small flathead screwdriver to push against the inner edge of the plastic cover until it pops off.
4. Remove the old battery. Take note of the battery orientation (the positive "+" side should be facing up).
5. Insert the new CR2025 battery, ensuring the positive side is facing up.
6. Snap the cover back into place and test the lock/unlock buttons on your van.

Where to buy a replacement fob

When sourcing a replacement key for a Mercedes Sprinter, you have three main avenues. Choose carefully, as buying the wrong part can cost you more in the long run.

• The Dealership: This is the most straightforward, guaranteed route. You provide your VIN and proof of ownership, and they order a pre-programmed (or dealer-programmable) key straight from Germany or a regional hub.
  • Pros: Guaranteed to work, OEM quality.
  • Cons: Very expensive. Expect to pay between $300 and $550, plus a potential programming/sync fee. Wait times can be days or weeks.
• Professional Automotive Locksmith: A qualified mobile locksmith specializing in European keys can make a Sprinter key on the spot.
  • Pros: Often cheaper than the dealer ($200–$400 total), they come to your location, and they can cut and program aftermarket or refurbished OEM keys the same day.
  • Cons: You must find a locksmith with specific Mercedes tooling; not all locksmiths can do it.
• Amazon / eBay / Online Retailers: You can find blank Sprinter shells and unprogrammed electronics online for $20 to $50.
  • Pros: Very cheap upfront cost. Great if you only need to swap the plastic shell of a broken key.
  • Cons: Most locksmiths will refuse to cut or program customer-supplied Mercedes keys due to high failure rates and incompatible frequencies. If it fails to program, you still owe the locksmith a labor fee.

If on-board programming isn't supported

As established, you cannot program this key yourself. The Sprinter utilizes a highly secure immobilizer transponder (typically a PCF7936 or integrated NEC chip in the fob). The vehicle's computer will physically lock out the starter and fuel system if it does not recognize the encrypted rolling code from the key.

If you have lost all your keys, expect the price to jump significantly. "All Keys Lost" situations on a Mercedes often require the locksmith to remove the ignition module from the dashboard to extract the security data on the bench, driving labor costs up. Always keep a spare key!

Find a mobile locksmith or shop on Repairius.