(no subject)

[slane1616.livejournal.com]

Hi All,
first time poster with a quick question.

I was recently given a car starter for Christmas. My car is a 2005 so in order to set it up they need the security chip from my spare key. I'm now having to go back to the dealership to get a new spare. I've heard (but could be completely wrong) that some hardware stores are able to copy keys at a much cheaper rate without the chip and it's just as effective as a spare...

Has anyone tried this or know of a local spot that has mastered the art of saving me $100!

Thanks!

Comments

[overstim.livejournal.com]

Theres a guy on main st Medford near LaCascias bakery, with an olllld D-lick sign out front. he does great work. Might be able to help.

[mdm-sosostris.livejournal.com]

Dunno about hardware stores, but a locksmith cut and coded my 2000 Nissan Sentra key for *way* less than the dealership wanted. And if you have AAA, you get $50 off.

[zenala.livejournal.com]

I've gotten an older car key copied with no problem. I don't know about the chip, but most local hardware stores will copy any keys you want. (and I've gotten a whole keychain's worth of keys copied for under $10)

[ron_newman]

I added the key and lock tag. The old posts often recommend Tags or Commonwealth Lock (both in Porter Square), but those posts aren't specifically about car keys, so I don't know if they are helpful.

[slane1616.livejournal.com]

Thanks everyone. I just called RW Shattucks over in Arlignton. I thought they were going to be my cheap out on this one, but even at a hardware store it's still going to be around $70. Oh well! beats a hundo.

[afty.livejournal.com]

Newer cars include an RFID chip in the key to prevent theft. The car won't start without sensing the correct RFID chip, so you can't just cut a key at a hardware store. That's why the replacement key costs so much.

[veda815.livejournal.com]

Do you have a "valet key" for your car? When I got a remote starter the installers were able to cannibalize the valet key for the chip they needed.

[snarkyman.livejournal.com]

If your new car has an immobilizer in the ignition, you will have to use the chip from the key. This is an anti-theft device designed to prevent the car from starting unless you have the original key or a copy from the dealer.

When I had a replacement key made for my 2001 VW Passat, the dealership told me that it would cost approximately $300 to cut a new key and program the chip.

If you get someone to cut a new key for you, it is very likely that you will not be able to start your car with it if you do not have the chip.

I suggest you google immobilizer and the model and year of your car to get a better idea if this is an issue for you. Even better, call your dealership service department and ask them.

FYI: If you do have an immobilizer in your car, you should qualify for a discount on your comprehensive insurance.