I just recently joined the C4 club having previously owned a 68 T Top. I have a 96 CE and, of course, everything's different. The guy who sold me the car couldn't find the keys and had to call out a locksmith to cut the keys to get me on the road. I see where the locksmith matched the keycode to the VIN #. He cut three:

One is an ignition key with a chip in it. It has a black plastic coated handle.

The second is an ignition key with no chip and no black plastic.

The third is a door lock key.

Unless that chip operates the keyless entry system (and standing next to the car with it, it does not automatically unlock), I am missing some sort of remote. Reading through old posts I found reference to them being found on Ebay. Other remotes I've seen will honk the horn, unlock doors, etc. But I understand the car is supposed to detect the system and lock when you leave and unlock when you come back. Do I have this correct? If so, it sounds like a special remote.

What do I have to do to get things back to original factory spec?

Next question: What's the ignition key without a chip for?

Last question: The new cut key with the chip doesn't always start the car (The security light blinks). Possible problem?

Thanks and - Yes - I do feel pretty foolish but you don't know what you don't know.

 

The PKE (passive keyless entry) fob is the remote you need. The chip in the key is for the VATS (vehicle anti theft system) The computer sends a small current through the key when you try to start the car and if it measures the correct resistance it lets you start the car if it measures the wrong resistance it sends a large current through your wallet. :P

The dealers, eBayers, and catalogs sell the fob. You will then need to program your car to recognize your fob via a procedure that is in the sticky and your owner's manual.


It serves as blank for cutting more keys if it turns in the lock smoothly.

Yes. Search the forum for VATS troubleshooting while you clean the new key's pellet's contacts with an eraser.

 

You are missing the PKE remote. Do you have a manual for the car? It should tell about it in there. The ignition key has a chip in it and the door key does not and is round. The remote can be purchased on ebay or from a parts dealer, your local or one online. This is then programed to the car per manual instructions. Anyway you should buy a manual for the '96. Instructions can probably be found with a search on the forum. Welcome to the CE world!

 

Tried the eraser while reading VATS troubleshooting. Will try it tomorrow. On a side note, the new key is pretty tight and doesn't always turn the ignition tumblers. I have not tried any lube due to too many electronics. Anyone found anything to free them up or should I just buff the key?

 

After the eraser trick, it has started every time