The last time I needed a key cut for my Volvo (S60R) it was a nightmare. I had to go to the Volvo dealer with the original, they ordered a new set from Sweden, Then around 2 weeks later the old keys, new keys, fobs and car had to be left to be re-programmed. That took around an hour and cost me a over 300 pounds !

Does the Mercedes key have a built in fob and is the key itself chipped ? Some keys hold a chip that is read when manually opening the car. If not and it's a seperate fob, you may be able to get a blank key cut at city centre. If not I suggest you start at the dealer.