Key

jjkrishock · 2023-01-23T19:04:23-0500

I have a 2003 Xterra and I broke the only key I have. My pieces of key took to a auto place to see what they could do. It was slightly bent ,so the great guy there was putting it in to a vice several times and made me a key. Long story longer, it only opens the doors and my steering wheel is locked. Called a dealership and another and they said that it is programed and it would cost me $240 for someone to come and do key stuff. Question, is there any way I can get a programed key with my vin? Any other solutions would help. Thanks in advance! (And for reading my rant)

Blackberry · 2023-01-23T19:59:05-0500

Your key doesn’t need to be programmed. The dealer can look up your key code by vin to cut a brand new one. You can use any key blank for this. It should cost less than $25 but you may need to provide proof of ownership.

MeToo · 2023-01-23T20:29:31-0500

I second that!

I used to work for a locksmith. Whether the key uses a chip or not, cutting the metal part can be done by a registered locksmith with a phone call to the manufacturer after ascertaining proof of ownership. We could cut the key in the shop or on-site in any of our service vans.

The only real issue will be if the tumbler was ever replaced with one that uses a different key code. In that case, a locksmith can still figure it out and cut you a key.

sporklift · 2023-01-24T18:35:10-0500

Lost my only ignition key this week. Quoted over $200 from dealer and local locksmiths to replace key. At least you have the pieces of the original.... Ha.

Blackberry · 2023-01-24T19:13:19-0500

It’s nice to own a factory scan tool. I can program whatever.

sporklift · 2023-01-24T19:54:02-0500

Blackberry said:
It’s nice to own a factory scan tool. I can program whatever.

Not even for programming! Just to cut a metal key from the key code. I was blown away.....

Needless to say, I am going to look harder for it.

Sorry for the threadjack.

Blackberry · 2023-01-24T20:45:12-0500

sporklift said:
Not even for programming! Just to cut a metal key from the key code. I was blown away.....

I would agree this seems excessive but sometimes dealer parts cost more. I wonder if that’s for an OE key or if it’s a “dummy” key. Both would work

sporklift · 2023-01-24T21:00:26-0500

Blackberry said:
I would agree this seems excessive but sometimes dealer parts cost more. I wonder if that’s for an OE key or if it’s a “dummy” key. Both would work

The parts lady said it was for OE key.

IIRC she said ~$49 for the key and $150 to have it cut.

Key

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