Programing my Key?

Tiny
RKNJ
  • MEMBER
  • 2005 VOLVO S40
I ordered another electronic key from the dealer because the extra one I had does not work. They ordered me the key and programmed it to my computer. After it didn't work they realized that the problem is in the computer/starter and it will need to be replaced $300. NOW, they will not take back the key because they say it's already been programmed to my car.

IS THIS TRUE? Can they not just unprogram it and let me return it? Now I own a $120 key that ONLY unlocks the doors?
Do you
have the same problem?
Yes
No
Wednesday, July 29th, 2009 AT 11:20 AM

7 Replies

Tiny
JIS001
  • MECHANIC
  • 3,408 POSTS
If you are talking about the plastic key then most likely the packaging was thrown away for the key. The package has a 12 and 8 digit code that needs to be inputed to program the key. Without it they can not program it to another car. Also to remove the key from the Central Electronic Module would require removing ALL the keys as well. So your pretty much stuck with the key unless the dealership was the one to misdiagnose the problem then they should be the ones to eat the key and software.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Wednesday, July 29th, 2009 AT 10:49 PM
Tiny
RKNJ
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
I didn't realize it worked like that. I am not sure if I can tell if it was their fault. Originally they told me the key I had was shot and to order a new one. I did and then they told me it's not a problem with the key but with the computer/starter. They ALSO told me it's just a matter of time and it will probably die completely, I'll have to replace the computer at some point. They say even though I have the key now and it doesn't start the car, I will be able to use it in the future after I replace the part. Hm.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Thursday, July 30th, 2009 AT 8:27 AM
Tiny
JIS001
  • MECHANIC
  • 3,408 POSTS
If you have something in writing like an invoice where you paid for diagnosing and they recommended the key then you should not be held responsible for having to buy the key. But if you did not pay for diagnosing and all they did was assume it could be a bad key then your kinda stuck with the key? What is the exact problem? Is it the ignition switch that is going bad? If it is then no key should be working at all?
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, July 31st, 2009 AT 1:06 AM
Tiny
TIN EAR
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
  • 2003 VOLVO S40
  • 10,000 MILES
When I turn ignition key on the imobalizer LED flashes for 30 seconds.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
-1
Monday, December 14th, 2020 AT 2:55 PM (Merged)
Tiny
TIN EAR
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Hi there I've managed to find an answer to my question, if your car imobalizer is flashing rapidly when you switch the ignition on.
Using your key fob lock and unlock your car 5 times leave the car for a few minuets the imobaliser will reset itself and work as normal,

Tin ear
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Monday, December 14th, 2020 AT 2:56 PM (Merged)
Tiny
ANDRESB
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
  • 1999 VOLVO S40
  • 80,000 MILES
My dad has a Volvo S40. The key case is in pretty bad shape even though the chip is still working. Any idea where can I get a replacement for the Key case only? If I get the replacement, would it just be enough to change the chip in the current key case to the new one and have the blade cut? Thank you!
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Monday, December 14th, 2020 AT 2:56 PM (Merged)
Tiny
DRCRANKNWRENCH
  • MECHANIC
  • 3,380 POSTS
Unfortunately you would have to replace the key and have a dealership "Falsh program" all your keys and remote control fobs, if you have any.
So, if you intend to replace it, it is a good time to get spare keys and spare remote fobs as you can buy them for cheap on EBAY. You have to buy them in bulk though. You sometimes have to buy 10 keys, but it is less than $20 and the same for remote fobs too. The real cost is at the dealership when you have them falsh program the keys and fobs. All have to be done at once as the security code will be changed and the cost is expensive. At least several hundred dollars. So, you could have a ton of spares. If you wnet back later you would have to pay the flash program fee again even for just one key. So, it is best to get spares and do them all at one time.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Monday, December 14th, 2020 AT 2:56 PM (Merged)

Please login or register to post a reply.

Sponsored links