If you have a key that they can copy from there should be no problem

Redwood: Does that key have a computer chip in it? If so just take your wife's key to a reputable locksmith. Might cost you $49 but sure beats $200 at the dealer.

1) Your '02 Golf uses a key called a 'sidewinder' because the key cuts are cut into the side edges of the key, not the top (and bottom) edge of the typical key. The newer sidewinder keys a are quite popular on German and high-end Japanese cars, but can be found on a few other models as well. Many locksmiths do not have a sidewinder milling machine.

2) The key you need also incorporates a transponder, a coded chip which is embedded in the plastic head of the key. The transponder allows the car's computer to determine if the key has the authority to start the car. Although many locksmiths have a programming unit that talks with automotive on-board computers, the VW requires a security pin-code to authenticate the communication. My manual says that VW is not keen on giving out that pin-code, so only the dealer may be able to program the key to your vehicle.

Sadly, car dealers are notorious for charging the highest rate for vehicle service. Locksmiths routinely are less expensive and provide on-scene lock service where a vehicle otherwise would need to be towed to a dealer. In your case, just a duplicate needs to be made, so you would do well to call a locksmith or two and ask if they can 1) Cut sidewinder keys and, 2) Program VW transponder keys to your Golf. If you get a 'yes', go for it and enjoy the $$ you will save.

Transponder keys, depending on the make and model of vehicle and the locale you you happen to be in, can range from $17 to way more than $100 for cutting/programming. It seems that when buying a new (or even used) car, no one ever asks the dealer about the cost of duplicate keys. They would be shocked to learn of the costs these days.

The transponder-equipped keys are to prevent criminals from taking your vehicle as quickly as in the old days, but the car manufacturers are showing themselves to be 'legal' criminals in gouging the customer for extra keys.

Les

Only the 'key guy' would know this ...

Thanks.

HEY ALL


WELL I hope you got all your key problems worked out


dgrimm60

Hey, Key Guy,,,where have you been???? One quick question. How many years can I expect the batteries for the remotes for my two '96 Impala SS autos to last? They are still original. Thanx..

I'm here, big guy. Was outrageously busy over the past 8 months.

First of all, I'm envious. 2 -'96 Impalas? I assume you mean the Caprices. They were sweet, cool cars.

Remote batts are not that expensive and IMHO the originals you have are living extra lives... must be bunny batteries!

You can either replace them before they drop out for non-interrupted service, carry some spares for when they do lose it, or press your luck and buy the new batts when these let go.

PS: I know cops who are still missing their Caprices. Locally, the KWPD are cycling out their first & second generation Impalas (2000 and up) and going completely with the Crown Vics. Too bad, but I understand their reasons.

KEYGUY..........YOU NEED TO KNOW THAT YOU ARE SKATING ON THIN ICE WHEN YOU CALL MY IMPALA SS A CAPRICE!..........It is the ultimate insult to compare that little jewel to the Caprice which looks like an upside-down bathtub. You must also be informed that there are 6 1/2 of these vehicles in my family..which includes my brother and two nephews. One is a ;95 and the others are '96. The 1/2 is a wrecked one that had 60,000 miles on when it was totalled.

Glad,

My mental pic was correct.. see http://www.millingtonautobody.com/nss-folder/ourclients/Mvc-002s.jpg

I had a 2000 Impala, looked like this: http://www.web2carz.com/images/nctd/00chevyimpala.jpg

My memory of your body style was that it was called the Caprice. The '96 Caprice looked like this: http://www.freewebs.com/capss/cap1.jpg

Both the '96 Caprice and Impala look the same to me so maybe they were called by both names. If so, then we are both talking about the same car.

Either way, I thought they were some of the most beautiful Chevy's made.

Your pictures were correct except that the one of the Caprice is a Caprice SS of which there were not many made. I rode in one at the factory in Arlington , Tx. in '96. The basic style of the Impala SS was indeed based on the original Caprice but was modified and looks 100% better. All Impalas made after 1996 we "diehard SS owners" claasify as "Wimpalas"..<g>