VATS programming question

[BulletTime]

I ordered another key for my 2000 Coupe from an on-line retailer. The new (blank) key has the same meter reading in the chip as the original, so I'm sure I ordered the right one. I was under the presumption that as long as those readings matched, I could simply take it to get cut in the shape of the original. Two key-making places said only the dealer could cut the new key. The dealer claims that even though the new key has the same chip value, it STILL must be programmed to the car before it can be cut (for 50 bucks), or the car won't start. Truth or fiction?

 

[c5vetter]

true

 

[4speed]

Well, I bought a VATS key at my local hardware store for $17.50. It works in my 01 just fine.

Lou

 

[Ken Anderson]

Fiction.

 

[4speed]

Hey Ken, do you mean that my post is fiction?

Lou

 

[DRTH VTR]

I have purchased a replacement key for both my '97 and 2002 C5's. In neither case did they need access to my car, a fob, etc. Obviously they did have an original key and a replacement key at the same time, but I was not aware of any knid of "programming" that had to be done.

 

[Ken Anderson]

Hey Ken, do you mean that my post is fiction?

Lou[/QU
No, you're true the dealer is spinning a $50 fairy tale.

 

[BulletTime]

Well, I bought a VATS key at my local hardware store for $17.50. It works in my 01 just fine.

Lou

I'd like the name of that store. I went to Home Depot and one other place; they both swore they could NOT cut a key like that. Let alone sell me one!

 

[bob kissinger]

I ordered another key for my 2000 Coupe from an on-line retailer. The new (blank) key has the same meter reading in the chip as the original, so I'm sure I ordered the right one. I was under the presumption that as long as those readings matched, I could simply take it to get cut in the shape of the original. Two key-making places said only the dealer could cut the new key. The dealer claims that even though the new key has the same chip value, it STILL must be programmed to the car before it can be cut (for 50 bucks), or the car won't start. Truth or fiction?

FICTION. You DO NOT need any dealer programming for additional keys!!!! Many "hardware" stores don't have the equipment to "read" the resistor chip keys, so they do not stock the blanks. Any good locksmith should be able to do it! Had mine done in 10 minutes for $22.50.

PS - You can even read the resistance on your key with a multi-meter.

 

[c4c5specialist]

I ordered another key for my 2000 Coupe from an on-line retailer. The new (blank) key has the same meter reading in the chip as the original, so I'm sure I ordered the right one. I was under the presumption that as long as those readings matched, I could simply take it to get cut in the shape of the original. Two key-making places said only the dealer could cut the new key. The dealer claims that even though the new key has the same chip value, it STILL must be programmed to the car before it can be cut (for 50 bucks), or the car won't start. Truth or fiction?

HI there,
Fiction, totally fiction.
Put the key in and start it.
That is all.
c4c5

 

[BulletTime]

Thanks to all who responded. You were right, of course, no programming necessary. Why is truth at such a premium these days?