getting a new key
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 2,414
Likes: 414
From: Horseshoe Bend ID
1. Search the forum for the VATS resistance chart.
2. Use an OHM meter to check the resistance on your key.
3. Buy correct key blank from forum vendor / ebay
4. Take key to local Homeland / hardware store to be cut to match
2. Use an OHM meter to check the resistance on your key.
3. Buy correct key blank from forum vendor / ebay
4. Take key to local Homeland / hardware store to be cut to match
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2014
Posts: 3,399
Likes: 1,339
From: Havre de Grace Maryland
Agree with all but because the cutters in the Home Depot type establishments leave burrs because they are not kept sharp and with the sensitivity that the C5 ignition switch has , I would recommend taking the key to a Key Locksmith for cutting.
Safety Car
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 4,018
Likes: 388
From: Chandler AZ
Also only have one key for my PT Cruiser and one key for 1965 C10 pick-up, should make copies for all 3 vehicles.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 7,373
Likes: 1,128
From: cold & windy
how it always works... went & bought a new wheel lug key after kids stole stuff from my truck one night, then found my original under the seat a couple days later.
Administrator
Joined: Mar 2001
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I would lean towards getting the key cut at a locksmith too.
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Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 2,658
Likes: 635
From: Dallas TX
The locksmith I use doesnt like to duplicate keys that are over 10 years old due to wear. He generally recommends going to the dealer to get a key cut off the VIN beyond 10 years.
I had an 07 Colorado that the ignition cylinder was binding up and I managed to lock it up solid. I had to pull the steering wheel to pull the whole mechanism to take in to him. He got it apart and was going to make me an extra key but he noted how worn the key was and likely why it was binding up and all an extra key made from what I had would do is the same since the copy would also be "worn". Ran up the road to the chevy dealer who cut me a key in about 15 minutes and the difference was dramatic. I think it cost 12 bucks and the guy didnt charge me to cut it.
I had an 07 Colorado that the ignition cylinder was binding up and I managed to lock it up solid. I had to pull the steering wheel to pull the whole mechanism to take in to him. He got it apart and was going to make me an extra key but he noted how worn the key was and likely why it was binding up and all an extra key made from what I had would do is the same since the copy would also be "worn". Ran up the road to the chevy dealer who cut me a key in about 15 minutes and the difference was dramatic. I think it cost 12 bucks and the guy didnt charge me to cut it.
Pro
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 515
Likes: 134
I have done it several ways:
New key from Chevrolet dealer from the VIN
Locksmith measured the resistance to select the correct key blank
Locked keys in car on road trip, locksmith made key from VIN to unlock car, but did not have resistor
New key from Chevrolet dealer from the VIN
Locksmith measured the resistance to select the correct key blank
Locked keys in car on road trip, locksmith made key from VIN to unlock car, but did not have resistor
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2017
Posts: 5,641
Likes: 3,337
From: Virginia
2021 C5 of the Year Finalist - Modified
St. Jude Donor '21-'22
I aagree with a lot of the advice given. A locksmith is the way to go. However, there are some aftermarket alternatives, such as switching to a push button start. Not saying this is for you, but figured I'd mention it.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 391
Likes: 67
From: Oak Point Texas formerly okc
St. Jude Donor '16
Thanks for all the replies. I was able to go to a locksmith and had one made for $25 with tax! It is not as hard as it once was. Thanks again. The forum is great to process what it is you need to do!
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Joined: Apr 2013
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From: Oregon
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Melting Slicks
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 2,491
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St. Jude Donor '15-'16-'17-'18-'19-'20-'21-'22
Yes, it's a good idea to make a copy without a resistor just in case you get locked out
