How to replace the ignition key?

[antibody]

I hope it is appropriate to post here. I lost the only ignition key of my 2000 buick regal ls. The key has a chip on it.
I wonder what is the best solution? Will dealer be able to cut a key for me based on VIN number? How much it will cost?

Thanks.

[willwren]

Most locksmiths (big enough business to actually have a store, not a mobile-only smith) will have the key. You have to know the value of the key, though. There are varying resistance in the chip resistor that the VATS module is looking for.

If you don't know the value (and have no key to measure), you will have to go to the dealer to get at least ONE based on your VIN (take your title or registration with you). Don't buy more than one from the dealer, their prices are very high. Then go to a local locksmith and have a second key made to match the first.

The dealer MAY tell you the code for the key your car came with for no charge, though.

[antibody]

[quote="willwren"]Most locksmiths (big enough business to actually have a store, not a mobile-only smith) will have the key. You have to know the value of the key, though. There are varying resistance in the chip resistor that the VATS module is looking for.


Thanks. Do you how much dealer will charge for one key?

[willwren]

Local dealer here wanted 40 bucks last time I checked. Local locksmith was under 10.

[00Beast]

I know it's around $50 for a PK3 (what 00+ Bonnevilles have) at my local dealer, and you have to have proof of ownership and sign a waiver saying that it's your car.

[Bonni]

2004 bonneville, how to release ignition switch from dash. I have all trim. And radio out

[J Wikoff]

You might try a new thread.

[JEFFSSSEI]

Anti-body - Like they said get a new master key from the "stealership" or Large Locksmith company cut via VIN and coded to your car. After that just buy a PK3 key for your make/model car on either Amazon or Ebay etc. Have a local Hardware store cut it by copying the Master and follow the below GM Service Procedure to code the 2nd, 3rd etc key(s) to your car.

30 Minute Re-Learn Procedure
(Use this procedure after replacing any of the following components: The keys, The theft deterrent control module, The PCM (if necessary))

Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF, using a master Pass-Key® III key (black).
Observe the security telltale (The Light). After approximately 10 minutes the telltale will turn off.
Turn OFF the ignition, and wait 5 seconds.
Repeat step 1-3 two more times, for a total of 3 cycles or 30 minutes.

Important
The vehicle learns the key information and/or passwords on the ignition switch transition from OFF to CRANK. You must turn the ignition OFF before attempting to start the vehicle.

Start the vehicle. The vehicle has now learned the key and password information.
Clear any DTCs using a scan tool/code reader.

[harofreak00]

2004 bonneville, how to release ignition switch from dash. I have all trim. And radio out

In the future, a new thread would be best.

Have the key in the ignition and turned to run, there is a slot on the side of the cylinder with a tab you need to depress. You'll reach through the radio cutout to do it.

[Bonni]

Thanks i finally replaced tumblers and rekeyed new one to original key set. She runs like a new one. Almost.