Having replacement car keys cut(warning)

[JohnP]

When I bought my car recently it had only one key so I decided it would be prudent to have a second one cut in case I lost the original or got it locked in the car etc.
The key I had also has remote buttons on it to open/lock the car and close the windows. I paid 85€ to have a key cut at an established key cutting shop in Quimperle which has the necessary electronics to open/lock and start the car but no remote facility (all you really need for a spare key)

I now find that the remote buttons on the original key do not work. The guy who cut the key replaced the battery in the original key but still no joy. He told me there was nothing in the procedure which could cause this but I have looked on the net and this is a common problem. I have tried re-setting the key and various other suggested remedies but nothing works. I now face an expensive procedure at a Citroen main dealer to cure the problem. So if you need another key for a modern car with remote functions I would advise going to a main dealer, It may be cheaper in the long run

[Breton Wench]

So true. It i annoying that just this chip cause such expense. My 14 year old Megane only came with one key and I decided to get the spare, just in case. A week to order and 10 minutes programming from a Renault dealer and his little black box, 140 euros lighter - but it was the only option.

[Ali]

What an absolute bind !! Any idea how it happened ??

[JohnP]

I really don't understand the technicalities but by copying the code from the ignition switch to the new key this somehow interferes with the security system. I understand that both keys have to be programmed together at a main dealer and the normal off street keycutters don't have the necessary technology to do this. I also have been told that if I have a second key matched at the main dealer and the remote system re-set, the key I had cut will no longer work. I shall be managing as is for the moment but will update when and if I have the system reset.

[Ali]

Sounds a right PITA !

[JohnP]

UPDATE:
I have been quoted €200 to reprogramme the remote system on my car and provide a second key which must be encoded together with the original. There is also a charge for obtaining the code from Citroen which is normally on a tag supplied with the original keys and which I do not have. This process will render the first 'clone' key I had cut useless.

So beware.... If you lose your key or buy a modern second-hand car which only has one key you need to factor in the considerable cost of replacing it. Prices do vary according to the make but don't be tempted to have a clone key cut at a high st or market stall.

[Deleted]

I was told not to leave my spare key in my Mondeo and lock the car. For some reason the key in the car is "wiped". I presume it is in case someone breaks a window and finds it. You'd have to be a right prawn to do it though!