Questions tagged [key]

A key is an instrument that is used to operate a lock. A key is usually intended to operate one specific lock or a small number of locks that are keyed alike, so each lock requires a unique key. The key serves as a security token for access to the locked area; only persons having the correct key can open the lock and gain access.

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16 votes
5 answers
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Is there a reason keyless ignition cars do not shut off when it can no longer detect the keyfob?

There's been some security-related questions being asked here and on sister sites concerning keyless ignition automobiles and how to defend against some security risks. This brings up a related ...
Ellesedil's user avatar
  • 1,197
15 votes
12 answers
119k views

Couldn't start my Volvo due to Key Error. Called assistance and he fixed it by hitting the key with a screwdriver. What could be the error?

My Volvo S40 (06) would not start when I turned the ignition key. I got a message that was somewhat like "Key Error, please try again". I tried with both my keys so it wasn't the key itself. I think I ...
FeatureCreep's user avatar
13 votes
1 answer
86k views

How do I program a Chevy Malibu Key with chip in it?

I have a '07 Chevy Malibu and would like to know how to program the key. I lost the original, but was able to get a spare from the dealership. I do not want to pay the locksmith $150 to program the ...
James Mertz's user avatar
12 votes
5 answers
51k views

Remote Key Fob working only inside the car (close to receiver)

I am struggling to get my Peugeot 308 2-Button Remote Key back to work. I noticed first issues when my Remote Key unlocked / locked the car after several attempts. Then one day it suddenly did not ...
David Kasabji's user avatar
11 votes
2 answers
4k views

2007 Hyundai Elantra - Car beep when I lock the door no longer working

I got in a minor accident the other day. Cosmetically my hood was a little crumpled and the grill cracked. Functionally the only thing not working is the wireless lock beeping feature. Is this ...
MichelleTheNonMechanic's user avatar
10 votes
2 answers
3k views

What is the most cost-efficient solution when door keys do not fit ignition?

I know similar questions have been asked but I'm specifically looking for the most cost efficient way to solve the following problem. I have a 2006 Lexus RX400h for which the physical door key does ...
Carnoob's user avatar
  • 111
10 votes
1 answer
195 views

'98 Passat Locked when FOB batteries changed, how do you unlock it?

My friend owns a '98 VW Passat 2.0 Turbo. He changed the batteries in the key FOB and now the vehicle is locked by the security system. Using the key will not unlock any of the doors or trunk. What ...
Jonathan Musso's user avatar
9 votes
3 answers
2k views

2007 BMW Z4 won't start when my phone is plugged into the cigarette lighter plug

Sometimes when my cell phone is on charge in my 2007 BMW Z4 before I start it, nothing happens when I turn the key. The car is acting like it, as if I did not have the clutch pushed in - the key ...
Luke's user avatar
  • 193
9 votes
1 answer
114k views

I lost my Mercedes smart key, how do I get a new one?

If I lose a Mercedes smart key fob, how do I get a replacement? Is there anything I should do to prevent the old key from being used if it was stolen?
Ben Brocka's user avatar
8 votes
8 answers
45k views

Where can I drill a hole in my Ford key?

I have a key (for a 2006 Ford Focus), and the bit that attaches it to the keyring has broken off. I could fix this by drilling a hole in it, and attaching the keyring to that. But it's got some ...
Jeremy Miles's user avatar
8 votes
3 answers
27k views

How do I add a second key fob to my 2008 Prius

I have a series II 2008 Toyota Prius. I purchased a second key off of eBay and would like to program it for ignition and remote control.
brianegge's user avatar
  • 271
8 votes
2 answers
1k views

Key won't turn in Honda Fit after ignition cylinder repair

Malfunctioning locks seem to be common with Hondas that have laser-cut keys. After lots of research and tutorials on repairing the ignition cylinder I was able to remove the cylinder, extract the ...
Sea Citadel's user avatar
8 votes
4 answers
601 views

How can I fix a key broken off in a door lock?

This morning I tried to open the passenger-side door (of my 2001 VW Eurovan) but it appears to be stuck. The door is unlocked. I can pull the handle, but apparently not far enough to operate the ...
Digital Trauma's user avatar
8 votes
3 answers
134k views

Can I reprogram a used Mercedes smart key?

I want a new key for my Mercedes Benz and I've heard that you can get a used smart key for much cheaper than a new one from a licensed Mercedes mechanic. Can I reuse an already programmed Mercedes ...
Ben Brocka's user avatar
7 votes
7 answers
162k views

Fixing a water-damaged remote key

I have a Toyota Camry 2011 and two remote keys. One of the keys was soaked with water two years ago. Of course, it is not working. I went to a dealer and they failed to recover it. Is there something ...
Love's user avatar
  • 217
7 votes
1 answer
6k views

Second key for Mazda5 2013 - programming vs cloning, 80 bit vs 40 bit

I have Mazda5 2013 with a single key, so I am trying to get a spare (at least one) I have the part number ( G2YA-76-2GXB ) - dealer would charge $50 for the key plus $70 for the programming There ...
Steve V's user avatar
  • 257
6 votes
4 answers
60k views

2009 Mini Cooper. How do I open the trunk?

This is an odd question, I am sure, but we bought a used Mini Cooper, but it didn't come with an owner's manual. We have figured out how to open it with the key fob, obviously. The problem comes ...
Favil Orbedios's user avatar
6 votes
1 answer
562 views

Effects of shutting off Nissan altima (or any car) while in drive

Every now and then when I get home after a long day, I pull into my driveway and while the car is stopped (foot on the brake), I turn the vehicle off without putting the vehicle in "Park". Car is ...
IT_User's user avatar
  • 225
6 votes
1 answer
4k views

What is the funny looking thing attached to my new mazda3 key fob?

I got my new 2016 mazda3 today from the dealer and tossed the second key fob right in my backpack without taking a look. Then I found there was this weird looking thing attached to it. It has "...
user3336365's user avatar
5 votes
5 answers
5k views

Can a heavy key-chain damage your ignition?

I just bought a 2012 VW Jetta TDI. The dealer asked me to do a 2,000 mile check-up to make sure everything is within tolerances. At the check-up the service representative said my key-chain was too ...
Copas's user avatar
  • 53
5 votes
3 answers
11k views

Start a circuit or device when you insert key in car ignition

I want to start a circuit in my car when I insert my key in car ignition and let it turn off when the key gets removed. I have Honda Civic 2007. Can someone just help me out as to from where do I take ...
Humayun's user avatar
  • 153
5 votes
1 answer
229 views

Malfunctioning windows

Two things malfunctioned with my Skoda Octavia windows One window won't operate with the 'one-touch' switch, only by holding the switch The 'convenience' window operation from the key fob stopped ...
Weather Vane's user avatar
  • 1,848
5 votes
3 answers
37k views

What does it take to program a used ECU?

I own a Mazda MPV 2000 with a faulty ECU. The vehicle has an immobilizer. It will not start with the former ECU. It floods the engine with fuel. After extensive diagnostics on the vehicle and the ...
ElectronicsNewbie's user avatar
5 votes
3 answers
23k views

Unable to start engine - unable to unlock ignition key Citroen C3

I have just bought a citroen C3 and much to my horror was unable to turn the key in the ignition this evening. Had to wait about 10 minutes until it finally gave way. Anyone else experienced a ...
Richard Spencer's user avatar
5 votes
1 answer
1k views

Manually operating F150 starter motor

The vehicle in question is a 1997 F150 with a broken ignition switch. Inserting the key and turning it just spins. "Fortunately", the switch was left in the "on" position; the steering wheel is not ...
R.. GitHub STOP HELPING ICE's user avatar
5 votes
2 answers
2k views

Can valet keys get wet?

I have a 2014 Honda Pilot. It has two kinds of keys, one has buttons on the key itself the other does not have buttons, the one without buttons is a valet key. When I went to the Honda dealer to ...
James Jenkins's user avatar
5 votes
2 answers
1k views

volvo ignition key

I've got a problem with my 2001 Volvo S60 ignition key. One key will start the car no problem. Most recently, however, the other key will turn and the engine just grinds but won't start. Put the other ...
Doug's user avatar
  • 51
5 votes
2 answers
18k views

Is there a key code with my Kawasaki

I hear that there is a key code for my 2006 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 LT that can be given to a dealer who can then cut a new key for my bike if ever necessary. Now it is. But where do I find the key code?? ...
Old Man's user avatar
  • 53
5 votes
1 answer
758 views

Are there preventative measures I can take in case I lose my Odyssey key?

A little under a year ago, I purchased a used 2005 Honda Odyssey. The car only came with one key, and I have constant concerns about losing that key. My question: Given the fact that I have a working ...
Lynn Crumbling's user avatar
5 votes
2 answers
8k views

How to determine if a Mercedes key is original?

I have made a duplicate of my car key ( 2001 E320) and I want to know if the key (reprogrammed used key) is original; manufactured legitimately by Mercedes or an authorized manufacturer. I didn't ...
Alex's user avatar
  • 53
4 votes
1 answer
183k views

Remote does not always lock/unlock the car: diagnosing RF receiver issues

The remote central locking thing on my car key does not alway lock or unlock the car. Sometimes it works right away, sometimes I have to press it dozens of times before it works, sometimes it never ...
Bas's user avatar
  • 407
4 votes
2 answers
8k views

One Key Starts, Two Others Don't

As of yesterday, my wife's key no longer starts our 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe. The key turns fine, all electrical accessories work, but the starter is never engaged. My key (an original) works fine. I ...
Mark Brackett's user avatar
4 votes
1 answer
49k views

Key Card Battery Low message after replacing battery

I have a late 2012 Renault Megane and when using one of our key cards the dashboard displayed a message about the battery being low. I have replaced the battery with a brand new one and the message is ...
Andrew Wilkinson's user avatar
4 votes
1 answer
10k views

Current from key to solenoid of starter motor relay

I am considering installing a starter motor immobilizing relay inline with the starter setting of the key and starter solenoid. I recently got a MAH-112-C-4 online. It has a 30A switching ...
SeanJ's user avatar
  • 481
4 votes
1 answer
529 views

Can I disable my 2009 Volvo S40's remote key fob panic button?

The panic button on the remote key fob is very sensitive and sets off the alarm accidentally all the time, for example, when it's in my pocket and I move a certain way. Is there a way to disable the ...
Joe Fletcher's user avatar
4 votes
2 answers
384 views

Replacement/Copy of 70s Honda Key

I bought a 1972 Honda CB750 and the key that came with it is a weird little key. I'm guessing this is the way they were made back then. I would really like to get a copy of the key so I have more than ...
MillerMedia's user avatar
4 votes
2 answers
485 views

How to reprogram an 86 corvette chip key to a new Electronic Control Unit

I just put a new Electronic Control Unit (ECU) in my '86 Corvette. My key seems to be giving the right code, as I get fuel to the rail and spark to the plugs, however, I don't get injector pulse, so ...
Hank Schmidt's user avatar
4 votes
2 answers
1k views

2009 Chevy Malibu key programming failed

I took the steps to program my newly cut key because I lost my original key...After going through the steps I must have done something wrong because now the car is just black and won't do anything. ...
Blackman89's user avatar
4 votes
1 answer
956 views

Functionality of buttons on keys.

I recently purchased an old BMW 318is (1994 model, so it really is old) and received two pairs of keys. The keys come with a silver and black pad that has 4 buttons on it. I'm not sure what each ...
Jack Linkown's user avatar
4 votes
2 answers
417 views

Mazda 3 gear drops at high speeds

I have a 2013 Mazda 3 i Touring sedan, with about 39,500 miles on it. I've had no issues with it before. And I had a mechanic look it over about 6 months ago when I bought it. This just started last ...
NeuralLotus's user avatar
4 votes
1 answer
831 views

How can I lock keys inside 2007 Mazda6?

I am getting my car towed to a location for me to pick it up at a later time. I have a spare key and want the driver the lock the other key in the car. Unfortunately technology is getting in my way. ...
Driver's user avatar
  • 41
4 votes
0 answers
216 views

2004 Toyota Corolla does not start with key

For more than ten days, I can not start my car with the key. It does start without problems with the remote starter. So, I think the problem is with the ignition switch. One more thing, the key turns ...
D_E_M's user avatar
  • 41
4 votes
0 answers
3k views

Is there really such a thing as a skeleton key?

I've worked in the motorcycle industry for a while. I've heard ridiculous claims of something called a "skeleton key" which could turn any ignition to "on". Does something like this really exist? Is ...
gh0st's user avatar
  • 538
3 votes
1 answer
1k views

How can I turn on the airbag on Mitsubishi Outlander without a key?

In the manual it is written to insert the key for switching. But we have keyless car (just click the start button), and we don't have keys. Is there an alternative way? I tried using a knife, but it ...
Aminadav Glickshtein's user avatar
3 votes
4 answers
29k views

Honda Odyssey alarm goes off randomly

I have a 2002 Honda Odyssey that has recently developed an annoying habit of having its alarm go off unnecessarily. There is no discernable pattern for when the alarm goes off - it has happened in ...
Digital Trauma's user avatar
3 votes
2 answers
4k views

Found a set of car keys, now what? [closed]

I have found what look like Mercedes car keys. It's a black casing and we can barely see the Mercedes logo. In the key we can see a "Huf" inscription on both sides and a small Mercedes logo. I don'...
Tiago Duarte's user avatar
3 votes
1 answer
909 views

Which operations are done when key is turned to On position?

I would like to know which operations or functions does the car do when I turn the key to On position (the key position before starting the engine) in gas engine and in diesel engine. For example, in ...
Roby Sottini's user avatar
3 votes
2 answers
6k views

Key won't come out of a Ford Fusion, 2007

The keys are stuck in the ignition in this vehicle, even when the car is in park. What can be done to fix this, so the keys can come out again? Thanks!
PearsonArtPhoto's user avatar
3 votes
3 answers
1k views

my car's keyless remote fob only works when outside of the pcb housing

I'm not sure how to attempt to fix this, so my "clicker" for my Peugeot 107 hadn't worked for a few weeks and I decided to open it up, I found that clicking the buttons when the PCB is apart from the ...
sheepy28's user avatar
3 votes
1 answer
204 views

I lost one of my Toyota axio 2015 smart keys. How can I create a duplicate using the other key?

How can I create a duplicate using the other key?
Suranga's user avatar
  • 71