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  1. #1

    Default Cannot obtain replacement computer chipped vehicle key

    Hello,

    We just purchased a 2003 pickup truck in Oregon that came with only one computer chipped key, not knowing that TWO keys are necessary in order to make a duplicate. The salesman didn't disclose anything about this to us, including that the key itself was chipped (he said he "thought it wasn't"), and the key we were given wasn't provided until after we'd signed the "as is" agreement. Do we have any rights? Isn't it reasonable to expect to have the ability to duplicate a key on a vehicle? If the key breaks or is lost...we're dead in the water.

    Thanks.

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Jul 2006
    Posts
    2,652

    Default Re: computer chipped key

    Quote Quoting needtoknow_2
    View Post
    Hello,

    We just purchased a 2003 pickup truck in Oregon that came with only one computer chipped key, not knowing that TWO keys are necessary in order to make a duplicate. The salesman didn't disclose anything about this to us, including that the key itself was chipped (he said he "thought it wasn't"), and the key we were given wasn't provided until after we'd signed the "as is" agreement. Do we have any rights? Isn't it reasonable to expect to have the ability to duplicate a key on a vehicle? If the key breaks or is lost...we're dead in the water.

    Thanks.
    Who said the key can not be duplicated?

    http://home.earthlink.net/~chipcarkeys/id1.html

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Mar 2005
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    Michigan
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    28,906

    Default Re: computer chipped key

    This is in some senses an automotive question - can you identify a make and model?

  4. #4

    Default Re: Cannot obtain replacement computer chipped vehicle key

    It's a 2003 Mazda B2300, and the local hardware store first told us they needed two keys, and then the local dealership told us the same thing when my husband was there in person...

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Sep 2005
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    98,846

    Default Re: Cannot obtain replacement computer chipped vehicle key

    Is the problem perhaps that you only have a valet key?

  6. #6

    Default Re: Cannot obtain replacement computer chipped vehicle key

    No, the key is fully operational - that's the problem - it's the only known key in existence that will run the truck. We can get a valet key made, no problem - but in order to get a chipped key, we are told we need two keys because two are necessary to program a third.

  7. #7

    Default Re: Cannot obtain replacement computer chipped vehicle key

    And yes, I do see where this could sound like an automotive question, but I guess that's my fault for not clearly stating what my question was - I'm wondering if there aren't disclosure laws on used vehicles, and if there are, what resources do we have to get the problem resolved?

  8. #8
    Join Date
    Sep 2005
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    Default Re: Cannot obtain replacement computer chipped vehicle key

    I've never encountered this before, and I'm still not sure that I believe what you're being told. (They reproduce these keys using two men, sitting at separate consoles... insert keys, turn simultaneously and... No, I guess I'm thinking of a cold war missile silo.)

    They [i]can[i] rekey the car, so if it were me (as is or no) I would consider getting an esimate for that and attempting to recover either the keys or the cost of having the car rekeyed from the used car dealer. I think the small claims judge or magistrate would be sympathetic to the fact that they didn't give you the keys (or lack of keys) until after you had signed the paperwork. They knew they weren't giving you a full set of keys, so at least in my opinion they should have told you.

  9. #9

    Default Re: Cannot obtain replacement computer chipped vehicle key

    Thank you, Mr. Knowitall,

    The rekeying thing is awkward, too. From what we've learned, most newer cars since 2000 (our newest vehicle until now was a 1995) have these computer chipped keys as an anti-theft device. It seems they communicate with the computer through the steering column, and if you don't have the right key, you don't get any fuel. That's fine, unless you're in our situation... So rekeying the car would involve more than it used to.

    But I take your words to heart, and if push comes to shove, we may well end up in small claims court over this. At this point, we have sent a certified letter to the dealer asking for resolution within 30 days. They keep telling us we bought it "as is". So I guess we'll see what happens...

  10. #10
    Join Date
    Sep 2006
    Posts
    1

    Exclamation Re: Cannot obtain replacement computer chipped vehicle key

    I have a similar problem. We just bought an used car, and the key the dealer gave me only worked the day I tested drive the vehicle. The mechanic has told me that I need either the oryginal key or replace the ignition switch. So far the expenses add up to $350 (tow + diagnostic labor. Of course the mechanic didn't expect the key to be the problem so he expended 3 hours checking the car from head to toes). We call the dealership were we got the car from, but they don't consider they're responsible for this. Every time we call, we'll just get an upset sales rep screaming and telling us to not call again. We will like to know if there is any chance that we can proceed with legal action and take the dealership to court in order to pay for all the expenses originated (at least). Any advice is welcome. Thanks

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