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We bought a Japanese import Mercedes 2 years ago, great car and we love it. We recently lost the only key we had and arranged a new one from Coutts. When the key arrived it surprisingly didn't work. In diagnosing the issue with the key Coutts found that the electronic ignition is also faulty. Anyhow long story short the crux is that it seems the electronic ignition, steering lock and engine control unit (basically all the items security coded to the individual car) are not for this particular chassis number. Someone has replaced all these with units from another car. The dealer we brought the car from didn't mention anything of the sort and we're now some serious $1000's into a massive repair bill.
Is there any way we can recoup the repair costs? Either from the dealer ... or would our insurance come to the party?

Must mention also that Coutts have been fantastic to deal with and this by no means reflects bad on them.

Thanks in advance.

Hi there,
Due to the 2 year time-frame I would say it is unlikely that there is any comeback available from the dealer. The previous work may have even been carried out in Japan before arrival in NZ which presents an unknown element.
The CGA (consumer guarantees act)with regards to buying a vehicle from a dealer has no expiry date, but most problems that the dealer could be responsible for would be in the first few months of vehicle ownership.
With regards to insurance, they might cover if the key was damaged or lost and all the components required were a direct result of that. You would have to ask your insurance company for specific details, (this would be your best bet).