2000 q45 ignition key question

[Aaron_L]

I'd like to have some extra keys made for my 2000 q45 because my wife is notorius for locking the keys in the car, and with the birth of our first child I need to have some kind of backup. As far as the key blanks go, are they the same as other Nissan products built around the same time? That way I could get 4-5 non chipped keys made inexpensively used for sole unlocking the doors or trunk and stash them in different places.

Thanks,Aaron

[tfvesquire]

Hi Aaron:

If you want non-chipped key blanks, they are available fairly cheap online. However, there is a company called autochipkey (sp?) that offers the valet style OEM blanks and even the master keys that look identical to your original. I bought both a master and valet blank from the company and had them both cut (at Ace Hardware) and programmed by the dealer with no problems.

The only difference I could tell on the master key is that the Infiniti symbol is chrome instead of the OE gold. They have the same weight and feel and so far I haven't had any problems. The are going for about $10-20 each depending on which one you buy. You could purchase a couple extras and have them cut for now and then have them programmed at a later date. You would have to bring all of your key blanks to the dealer so they could wipe out the original security code and reprogram them all at the same time. Only cost me $85 from the local dealer here.

Good luck and hope that helps you out.

Ted, Chicago

[maxnix]

My 2000 OEM keys are silver.

The main problem with aftermarket keys is that they are often a softer metal and will wear the ignition lock in particular by leaving shavings in the lock cyllinder.

Keys are so 20th century. I would just get an extra OEM Fob or two if you are really insecure since the key is in the car.

[paranoidjack]

Keys are so 20th century. I would just get an extra OEM Fob or two if you are really insecure since the key is in the car.

There's your answer.

[Aaron_L]

Thanks, maybe I'll look into getting a fob as well, I didn't think about that.

[oldmako]

You can get a regular key cut for 3 bucks which will unlock the car and crank the starter. Consequently, it's nothing more than a hide-a-key to get you back into the car. The car will not run on this key. In fact, you may in fact screw up the anti-theft to the point of having to give the dealer a jillion bucks to repair if you keep trying it. Of this last part I am not sure, but I have read that rumor here.

I bought an ebay fob for 20 bucks and reprogrammed it for my ride. I then had two door keys cut just in case I lock the fob/chip-key in the car. At least I can let my ownself in and head for my crib and a fat spliff. Sheee.

I also bought a 35 dollar chip key which I have yet to schlep to the dealer for my rectal adjustment.

My local guys wanted 170 bucks for one of theirs. Um....no.


Modified by oldmako at 6:53 PM 1/4/2009