copying a transponder key

[auroradream]

This is NOT in regard to the remote keyless entry.

In the 2001 Aurora, the primary door/ignition/trunk key is called a "transponder key". The transponder key is marked with PK3 on the metal shank of the key just below the finger grip.

The transponder key contains a programmed circuit. When the key is inserted in the ignition, a pickup near the ignition switch detects the transponder and enables some functions. This info is given in the owner's manual.

The 2001 was also delivered with a valet key. The valet key opens only the door and works in the ignition. The plastic grip on the key is gray. I didn't receive a valet key with my used car, but that's another matter.

I want to have a duplicate made of the transponder key. I spoke to a locksmith, and he told me the PK3 key is the easiest of all transponder keys to program - "it takes about 10 seconds at the car...".

I can buy blanks for about 1/2 of what the locksmith charges to cut and program one key. I also have a key cutter. I interpreted what the locksmith said to mean that there was a means to program duplicates in the car somehow using the original key as a data source.

Does anyone have any knowledge about how this is done?
Thanks.

[bustedratchet]

You key has a black pill in it ? I think they use an ohmmeter on the pill to find out the resistance. I think there are 6 resistance values.

[auroradream]

OK, I did some more careful reading and I see how to do the programming.

I'm going to buy some key blanks. Some are for sale on ebay. I'd rather buy several keys from a key vendor and get a better price. If anyone else here has a 2001-2003 Aurora with the PASSKey-III system (key marked PK3), contact me if you're interested in going in on a bunch of keys, and I will contact a key vendor.

You would still have to get your key cut.

Carl

[boy wonder]

What is the situation with the 95-99s? I only have one key and would like to have a couple spares.

Stephen

[kgatwork]

Originally Posted by boy wonder

What is the situation with the 95-99s? I only have one key and would like to have a couple spares.

Stephen

Locksmith will charge $20-$25 per key. Thats for a double sided pass-2 key.

[auroradream]

The PK3 key was used on the 2001 and later Auroras, and on several other cars. If anyone else out there needs spare keys, I may be able to get a bunch of these keys at a better price than for one or two. In any case it would be far below what a locksmith would charge.

Any interest?

[Marc_Aurora_2001]

Auroradream...To program another black master key, take the master key
that you already have and do the following:

1.Start the engine very briefly.
2.Then turn the key to the lock position.
3.Put the key to be programmed into the ignition switch
and turn it to the run position within 10 seconds of
removing the first key.
4.Wait for the security light to go out. When it does,
the key has been programmed.


___________________

GM!!! SAVE OLDS!!!

[zimaad]

Hey all...does anyone know where to find a key blank for the passlock-2 system for my 98? I've looked on Ebay w/o any luck. Maybe I'm just searching the wrong things. Thanks

[Marc_Aurora_2001]

Go to www.streetkeys.com


______________

GM!!! SAVE OLDS!!!

[zimaad]

I looked there and they have keys for the newer 01+ models, but not 98. It says, no transponder keys available.

[auroradream]

If you keep searching on ebay you will eventually find someone selling the keys you need. But some sellers charge more. Look around for the best deal.

Another thing - if you can find other cars that used the same key, you couold search ebay for keys for that car. Make sure you ask the seller if his key is compatble with your year Aurora.

For instance, the 2001 PK3 key is common to the {shudder} Aztek....

[tmcnall]

Originally Posted by bustedratchet

You key has a black pill in it ? I think they use an ohmmeter on the pill to find out the resistance. I think there are 6 resistance values.

If you have extra passkey III blanks for an "01 aurora I would buy one from you...