Lost keys....
Thread Starter
Cruising
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
Lost keys....
I have an '85 that has been sitting and i've lost the keys for it. I know there are a few archived posts about this. But what i wanted to know was do i have to have a locksmith come make me a new coded key or can i just buy a new ignition switch with matching key and install it myself?
The dealer doesn't keep the codes for VINs before 1990. When i called the parts department they said the lock with matching key would run me $40. When i had them transfer me over to the service department, they quoted me $280 for parts and labor to install the ignition with matching key. I also see an ingition switch and key on ebay for $15.
Thanks in advance.
The dealer doesn't keep the codes for VINs before 1990. When i called the parts department they said the lock with matching key would run me $40. When i had them transfer me over to the service department, they quoted me $280 for parts and labor to install the ignition with matching key. I also see an ingition switch and key on ebay for $15.
Thanks in advance.
Last edited by tarheel27; Aug 8, 2005 at 12:02 PM.
Team Owner
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 90,675
Likes: 304
From: SE NY
Cruise-In II Veteran
Earlier this year my ignition switch was so troublesome that I replaced the lock and picked up two sets of ignition keys along with the master blank for that lock. Of course I had the OEM key so I was able to measure the resistance of the VATS ship.
You should be able the get the VATS number from a Chevy dealer from the VIN of the car.
Total cost was around $100, including the wheel puller & lock plate compressor from Auto Zone. If you don't get a lock plate compressor for tele wheels you will need the pick up a bolt to match the locking lever to hold the column center section fixed while you compress the spring under the lock plate during installation.
I would think that having a locksmith come out and do a new key would cost as much or more than just installing a new lock with two keys. If you replace the lock they you should be good for another 100k miles or more.
It really isn't a difficult job but you need to have the proper tools and pay attention to detail.
You should be able the get the VATS number from a Chevy dealer from the VIN of the car.
Total cost was around $100, including the wheel puller & lock plate compressor from Auto Zone. If you don't get a lock plate compressor for tele wheels you will need the pick up a bolt to match the locking lever to hold the column center section fixed while you compress the spring under the lock plate during installation.
I would think that having a locksmith come out and do a new key would cost as much or more than just installing a new lock with two keys. If you replace the lock they you should be good for another 100k miles or more.
It really isn't a difficult job but you need to have the proper tools and pay attention to detail.
Safety Car
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 3,793
Likes: 9
From: VA
It's usually about $30-50 to get a locksmith to unlock a car and make a key. I don't know if they'd charge more due to the VATS.
Or join AAA for about $50 and get the key for free.
I'd try a different dealer for a key. We've had threads before where one person's dealer said something like that, and other people said they've gotten keys no problem.
Or join AAA for about $50 and get the key for free.
I'd try a different dealer for a key. We've had threads before where one person's dealer said something like that, and other people said they've gotten keys no problem.
Pro
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 665
Likes: 2
From: Southington CT
i lost my key and the dealer couldn't help me, even with my vin. however, the dealer gave me a box that can determine key resistance after they found a key that fit. there was some trial and error but I eventually found it. good luck
Burning Brakes
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 855
Likes: 0
I lost my keys, some where in my house still, but the locksmith took out my ignition, got some numbers off of it and programed those numbers into his key cutting machine and it made a key from those numbers. It took awhile to figure out what resistence VAT I needed. The lock smith had a machine that did it for him. The problem is it takes the VATS 2 min to reset after each failed attempt. I believe the VATS run from 1-15 different resistances. I would probable just buy a new ignition and chaulk it up to preventive maintance. I currently need a new ignition and wish I would have had it replaced when I lost my keys.
P.S. cost me $150.00 (I don't have AAA)
P.S. cost me $150.00 (I don't have AAA)
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 6,228
Likes: 698
From: Clifton Park, NY ............Clearwater, FL ... 85 Original Owner
there is no vats on an 85. I'd call the locksmith and get an estimate. Hmm, wonder if AAA would pay for this. Otherwise, a new correct ingnition switch from Gm costs $35. If the dealer doesn't have it, ask him to locate one. Chances are, there is one from a dealership locally. I just did mine.
Instructor
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 163
Likes: 0
From: machesney park il
Originally Posted by Joslinm
there is no vats on an 85. I'd call the locksmith and get an estimate. Hmm, wonder if AAA would pay for this. Otherwise, a new correct ingnition switch from Gm costs $35. If the dealer doesn't have it, ask him to locate one. Chances are, there is one from a dealership locally. I just did mine.
