How can i get a copy of a key to my car?

Question

The dealership wants $$$ because there is a computer chip and the car has to be reset -- i think they're just trying to charge me for an hours worth of labor. Has anyone had any success with just getting a regular copy of the key made?

Answer 1

you only have 2 choices the dealer or a locksmith
unless its a late 80s or early 90 gm i can help you to disable that one all others your stuck
the locksmith will charge you less
the hardware stores wont help as they dont have the computer to read and reprogram them some can be reprogramed by the car but you need 2 good keys to make the 3rd

Answer 2

You are experiencing the great dealer ripoff. Unfortunately, they have you between a rock and a hard place. The system in your car has an option known as Securilock or PATS. The system requires a propely coded key to enable the engine to start. This system is more of a pain for the owner than it is for a thief.
You can program the key yourself but unfortunately you need both the factory originals. Contact your local automotive locksmith, I am sure they can help you (and maybe for quite a bit cheaper than the dealer can).

As far as your clicker-known as a remote transmitter. Check around at your local alarm stores. They may carry the after market counter-part for your system. I know for years I was receiving catalogs that suplied factory remotes. If someone sells them, they can program them.

These systems are set up proprietory so the only place you can go, is back to the dealer to replace their inferior parts.

BTW,the PATS is easily defeated. You may consider discarding the factory keyless entry system for professionally installed after market unit with all the features.

Answer 3

A regular copy would open doors but not start the ignition. You could go on ebay and get a blank key and have it programed at the dealership (save about $50) there or you can purchase a program to do it yourself. That would run you about $10. I suggest the first option.

Answer 4

You dont say the make of car but most modern cars the key has to be programed to the engine managment system.Dealers have the kit to do this it does not take an hour to do about a .25 of an hour is the normal charge.

Answer 5

if you have a high end quality car (mainly imports nowdays) you have no other way around it ..... there is a chip inside the key that makes sure that the key is "the key" .... key made from a local hardware store wouldnt do

if you have a more affordable older (5 years or more) low end vehicle theyre bull shitting you ..... just go to the local hardware shop and get it done there

Answer 6

The keys with the computer chips have to be specially made. Your car dealer is the best bet. Perhaps you could negotiate the price with them. Ask them if they could do any better on the cost.

Answer 7

I drive a Saturn, and it was only $5 for my key to be replaced at the dealership. So I don't know what you drive, but unless you're trying to get a remote to go with your key, it shouldn't be that expensive.

Answer 8

Key copy wont work write or e-mail the manufacturer with your V.I.N number (its on the dash look through the windshield in front of the drivers side) and request duplicate keys your insurance may even pay for it

Answer 9

I use to work at a car dealship and they sold rebuilt cars ,if they had a car without a key they would write down the vin number and have a key made.If you need more help contact me

Answer 10

i went to a little store on the corner of the street and they wanted $95, so it doesnt look promising, my BF works for a dealership and he said it's because of that chip that it cost so much. Sorry