2003 Mercedes E-Class Owner's Manual - Page 91

Controls in detail Locking and unlocking system, the vehicle cannot be locked or the engine started via the KEYLESS-GO system. If the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO is removed from the vehicle while the ignition is switched on (e.g. if passenger exits the vehicle with the key), the message Key not recognized! will appear in the multifunction display. Find the key or change its present location immediately (e.g. place it on the front passenger seat or insert it in shirt pocket). Remember that the engine can be started by anyone with a SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO that is left inside the vehicle. If you leave the card behind when exiting and locking the vehicle, the message Key recognized in vehicle! will appear in the multifunction display. Factory setting Global unlocking Grasp the door handle. The vehicle will lock again automatically within approximately 40 seconds if neither door nor trunk is opened. Global locking Press lock button at door handle ( page 53) or trunk lid ( page 92). ! If you cannot lock or unlock the vehicle with the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO, then either the batteries of the key are discharged or the key is malfunctioning. Check the batteries of the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO ( page 88) and replace them if necessary ( page 328). Use the mechanical key to unlock the driver's door ( page 327) and trunk lid ( page 328) as required. Lock the vehicle using the mechanical key ( page 328). If your SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO is malfunctioning, contact your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. i The vehicle could be inadvertently unlocked if the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO is within 3 ft. (1 m) of the vehicle and the door handle is splashed with water, or you attempt to clean the door handle. 91