Anyone have a '97 E class parts car with a drivers door IR sensor with an intact sensor window? It is the one with no key hole. Mine is inoperative and has the glass broken out. I am looking to replace mine with one having a cosmetically good IR window, of course it would be great if it worked but that is not necessary. I can now shine the IR on the inside mirror to open the door. I just want to improve the look of the lock. It only takes a minute to remove it and I will PM instructions if you have one for sale.

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'97 E 300 D

You should be able to use one from a 97 to 00 C class as the door handles appear to be the same. Others might work too.

Also, if you don't care about operation, epoxy the window over and spray matt black.

I just discovered that the 97 C class had the same sensor. It is possible that earlier years might use it to, but the E class went to a sensor with a key hole in '98. Both suggestions are good. Thanks.

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'97 E 300 D

Good information on the 98 E having key and sensor. The C 280 is Moms car and she still likes turning a key to get in a car so I may convert.

Many of us agree with your mother that all drivers door handles should have a key lock. Mercedes finally figured it out. I have asked the dealer if a '98 door handle could be installed in my '97. They basically said no due to problems getting the '98 cylinder coded to a '97 car. But I am not convinced they knew what they were talking about. If you pull it off, let us know how you did it.

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'97 E 300 D

I had investigated having a 96 C lock cylinder cut to replace the 97 C IR. The dealer said they would likely have to send special instructions to New Jersey that we really wanted a 96 lock coded as the 97 car. ( 96 still had a key lock on the drivers side )

In your case, there might be a difference as 98 has the electronic key fob?

Another possible work around is using the 97 C / E passenger lock on the drivers side. The complete unit is the same left to right except for a band of chrome trim, I'd expect the cylinder to be same and swappable.

When I removed the 97 IR "lock" from the drivers door, there is plastic blocking the door locking mech , this plastic is part of the IR wiring socket. I'm trying to get a hold of a parts car for more invasive investigation.

Also, my 97 SL has a key in the drivers door but none on the pass, this is invaluable as the IR is disconnected due to random alarm actuations.