Mercedes‑Benz,

The thriving W163 M‑Class community is seeking your support. The original flip‑key fob is no longer available directly from Mercedes‑Benz, and as these vehicles enter modern‑classic status, more and more owners are in need of replacement flip‑keys.

The W163 is an important part of Mercedes‑Benz history. It was the brand’s first luxury SUV, a landmark model built in the United States, and a vehicle that will forever be iconic through its appearance in The Lost World: Jurassic Park. Today, thousands of enthusiasts continue to preserve, enjoy, and maintain their W163s — many of which are now cherished modern classics.

The wider car community recognises how special the W163 is. It was recently featured in Doug DeMuro’s “Most Important Cars of the Last 30 Years”, highlighting its cultural and automotive significance.

And at the Mercedes‑Benz Classic Centre in California, what proudly sits on display? A W163 from the Jurassic Park movie — a reminder of the model’s unique place in Mercedes‑Benz heritage.

Without access to replacement flip‑keys, owners are forced to rely on the basic emergency key or third‑party solutions that do not meet Mercedes‑Benz quality or security standards. This undermines both the ownership experience and the long‑term preservation of the W163.

We, the W163 community, are asking Mercedes‑Benz to support the continued heritage of this model by re‑issuing the original flip‑key fob — even as a limited‑run Classic Parts item. This small action would make a meaningful difference to thousands of loyal owners worldwide and help preserve an important chapter of Mercedes‑Benz history.

Thank you.