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Key question (vats #?)

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Old Aug 15, 2007 | 08:46 PM
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Default Key question (vats #?)

Do I have to go to the dealer to see what my VATS # is to get a spare key? (99 FRC)
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Old Aug 15, 2007 | 08:50 PM
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Any lock smith that has a GM vat code reader can make you the correct key. Look for one that specializes in automotive keys. . Or you can go to your dealer. Good Luck.
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Old Aug 15, 2007 | 08:58 PM
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Thanks... I was going to purchase a spare key from that 'auction" site, they're only 10 bucks, but need correct VAT #.
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Old Aug 15, 2007 | 09:18 PM
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If you have a digital volt/ohm meter you can figure out the VATS code yourself. Here's how....

You need to read the resistance of the key. If you have a digital volt meter, set it on ohms mode and measure the resistance of the pellet on your key. The BCM is programmed for a specific resistance value. The BCM measures the voltage drop across the key pellet. If it is within +/-10%, then the car will start.
The 15 resistor codes are:
Key# Value (Ohms)
1 392
2 523
3 681
4 887
5 1130
6 1470
7 1870
8 2370
9 3010
10 3740
11 4750
12 6040
13 7500
14 9530
15 11800

Once you determine your VATS code, order the appropriate and corresponding key. Then - anyone with the capabilities of cutting a double sided key (usually a locksmith), can duplicate your key and you're good to go.
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Old Aug 15, 2007 | 09:30 PM
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Originally Posted by blacksedan87
If you have a digital volt/ohm meter you can figure out the VATS code yourself. Here's how....

You need to read the resistance of the key. If you have a digital volt meter, set it on ohms mode and measure the resistance of the pellet on your key. The BCM is programmed for a specific resistance value. The BCM measures the voltage drop across the key pellet. If it is within +/-10%, then the car will start.
The 15 resistor codes are:
Key# Value (Ohms)
1 392
2 523
3 681
4 887
5 1130
6 1470
7 1870
8 2370
9 3010
10 3740
11 4750
12 6040
13 7500
14 9530
15 11800

Once you determine your VATS code, order the appropriate and corresponding key. Then - anyone with the capabilities of cutting a double sided key (usually a locksmith), can duplicate your key and you're good to go.
WOW...this is good stuff!
I measured across the lillte black button in the center of the key..(I assume that is the "pellet"?)
The best I could come up with something CLOSE to one of these numbers....so if that is the case I should order that VAT #, yes?
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Old Aug 15, 2007 | 09:32 PM
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Originally Posted by SEE3ER
WOW...this is good stuff!
I measured across the lillte black button in the center of the key..(I assume that is the "pellet"?)
The best I could come up with something CLOSE to one of these numbers....so if that is the case I should order that VAT #, yes?
Yes!
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Old Aug 15, 2007 | 09:33 PM
  #7  
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Default Dealer price for non Vette key FYI

Cost me $5.00 for the dealer to look up my key code using the vin and $4.25 for the non Vats key, a Vats key would have been more. I really think they would have cut my blank for the $4.25 if I had taken a Vats in and paid them the $5.00 to do the code search. My local locksmith was as high as the dealer. Sometimes the dealer isn't such a bad deal. They offered to program the remote for free and the only locksmith in town with the Tech 2 tool wanted $60.00.
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Old Aug 15, 2007 | 09:38 PM
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Sweet info, I'll remember this thread for when I order the vettkey
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Old Aug 15, 2007 | 09:43 PM
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DONE...bought it for $9.89...
Thanks for that info!!!!
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Old Aug 15, 2007 | 11:13 PM
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My local ACE hardware had the VATS key reader. They read my key for free.
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