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keys with chips

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Old Aug 11, 2006 | 05:20 PM
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Default keys with chips

Can anyone tell me if the ignition cylinder can simply be replaced with an aftermarket unit,if the keys with the black resistor chip are lost?.I acn get one with 2 new keys for under $20,they want almost 100 for the replacement key.Would anything have to be disabled to keep the car running.Its not on my Vette,its on a Grand Prix,but the key looked the same,thanks..
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Old Aug 11, 2006 | 05:22 PM
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Handyman hardware in my area duplicates them for $15 each. Gotta have the one with the chip in it so he knows which code 1-15 I think.

Never mind - read your post closer - don't know.
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Old Aug 11, 2006 | 05:25 PM
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Problem is,I dont have a key to duplicate,they were stolen from the table at a local club,3 other people came looking for there keys and cellphones also.
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Old Aug 11, 2006 | 05:27 PM
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You can buy new VATS keys for $3.25 each. Call C-L-K Supplies at 1-800-848-6989. Buy some extras, 3 keys and shipping was $14.70. www.clksupplies.com

Never mind!

Last edited by BADDUCK; Aug 11, 2006 at 05:29 PM.
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Old Aug 11, 2006 | 05:29 PM
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EBAY or I have seen where they are cheaper than $10. If this is all you need.
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Old Aug 11, 2006 | 05:30 PM
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Originally Posted by Slither66
Problem is,I dont have a key to duplicate,they were stolen from the table at a local club,3 other people came looking for there keys and cellphones also.
If that is the case you might have to get a new ignition cylinder or talk to a locksmith.
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Old Aug 11, 2006 | 06:01 PM
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If I replace the cylinder,will the car run,or will it shut down?
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Old Aug 11, 2006 | 06:03 PM
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Alot depends upon the year and model of a car. Generally speaking, after 1988, Gm can tell you what the cut code and the vats code is, Just take your title into a GM dealer and he probably can cut you a new one. I just had one done on my 91vette for under $35. Two sided keys are more.
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Old Aug 11, 2006 | 06:07 PM
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Unless it is a VATS tumbler withthe correct key, it won't start unless you disable the vats, and you need the vats code to do that. Any locksmith should get you going if you can't get the codes from GM, but it'll be $$
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Old Aug 11, 2006 | 06:22 PM
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If you're in a hurry I think the GM dealer locally (I know bad words) can do it for you with the VIN but it will cost you about $17 for one. just my 2 cents.
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Old Aug 11, 2006 | 06:27 PM
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The GM dealer here says they have to tow the car there,hook it up to a computer,scan it,send the info somewhere(a 30$phone call),to get the code.Looking at about 300$ total,I am in Canada.
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Old Aug 11, 2006 | 06:34 PM
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I can't say without at least knowing more about the car. They don't have to call anyone, they just pull it up on the computer! (okay, I won't make that joke ) I'd try a different dealer, if possible.
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Old Aug 11, 2006 | 06:55 PM
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Originally Posted by Slither66
Can anyone tell me if the ignition cylinder can simply be replaced with an aftermarket unit,if the keys with the black resistor chip are lost?.I acn get one with 2 new keys for under $20,they want almost 100 for the replacement key.Would anything have to be disabled to keep the car running.Its not on my Vette,its on a Grand Prix,but the key looked the same,thanks..
If you can get the correct Ohms of resistance for the key code used in your car and a key cut for your ignition and send me your Email address, I will Email you two pictures...one shows you how to read Ohms resistance in your key with an inexpensive ohm meter and the other is a chart showing the correct Vats (Key)code for that reading. There are 15 key codes used. It'll also identify a source where you can buy the correct blanks with the correct Key (Vats) code for your car for ~$3.25 + a couple $ shipping US$ and you can then have any locksmith cut spare blank keys for your ignition. I just had 2 different key code ignition keys (2 different Vettes) made. My total cost including the locksmith at Ace Hdw was less than $7 per key ve ~$50 to $70 at other places.
My advice, after a friend had a similar experience as yours, is never be without a correct spare...he had a locksmith cut a spare that turned the ignition, but it didn't have the VATs slug...no start!
The key he bought to would save him in an emergengy turned out to be a waste of $$
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Old Aug 11, 2006 | 07:08 PM
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Will do,need a spare for my vette,as for the grand prix,am going to try another dealer,thanks guys for your input,thought it sounded fishy..
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Old Aug 12, 2006 | 02:19 AM
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Originally Posted by Slither66
Its not on my Vette,its on a Grand Prix,but the key looked the same,thanks..
1. Even though you stated it here that it was on a Grand Prix, for some reason I kept thinking it was a Vette.
2. I think it crazy to swap your ignition switch for just a missing keys. So we need to know your main purpose, are you trying to get the car started, or are you trying to prevent your car from getting stolen (since someone stolen your keys)

3. Lastly, even though this isn't for your Vette, it would be nice to see your profile filled out so we know what kindof Vette you have for your next problem that you may ask for help.

4. Once you do these steps, I can easily help you....
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