Key Work Around?

[Gasman]

Hi

 

We have a Mk1 Galaxy with various key issues.

 

I'm thinking of buying a complete new lockset, but that will mean reprogramming the PATS system for the new keys.

 

BUT - what if I just remove the transponder from my existing key and glue it to the car somewhere near to the ignition barrel? Will this then work with any keys that fit the barrel, without having to have them individually programmed?

 

I realise this will mean that the PATS system won't be effective, but I'm prepared to live with that.

 

Thanks

[Mirez]

Yes, but why not just put it into the "new" key rather then glue it to the barrel?

 

Leaving the "new" key's transponder inside it with the other glued to the barrel isn't a great idea as they can cause interfearence with each other. The other thing to remember is that you'll invalidate your insurance by bypassing the immobiliser system.

[ianmoore28]

Would it not make more sense to have a separate ignition key to the outside locks?

 

What are the key issues, I've just had a whole weekend of key issues,

[Gasman]

Hmmm! OK, some valid points!

 

The new lock set would come with two keys, but I only have one for the ignition. I was trying to avoid, or at least postpone the cost of getting an extra key either programmed or even cloned.

 

Some more detail on the key problems:

 

Passenger door barrel has completely disintegrated. There is just a big hole there.

 

Drivers door lock is very temperamental, feels rough and sometimes grabs the key and only lets go after lots of 'jiggling'.

 

Remote key died some years ago after being repeatedly given to (then) toddler to play with (don't ask). It also 'lost' it's transponder.

 

So, we're currently using the boot lock for all locking / unlocking and I was thinking of buying a 'complete lock set'. For about £225 inc VAT and delivery, I would get:

 

2 new handles and locks

1 new boot lock

1 new ignition

2 new keys - 1 remote, 1 standard + a plastic emergency key.

 

I was then planning to swap the door and boot locks, but leave the ignition. I was then going to use the blade from my old remote key, on the new remote, keeping the new remote blade as an emergency spare.

 

I'd then have two keys to unlock the car (the new standard key and the new remote - using the remote function) and two keys for the ignition (the old standard key and the new remote - using the old blade). But, I'd still only have one transponder - hence my idea of sticking the transponder to the ignition barrel.

 

Security is not a big concern. But invalidating the insurance might be more of an issue. Any thoughts or suggestions would be gratefully received.

 

I did think about just changing the internals of the locks but have been unable to get much sense from the Ford parts departments I've spoken to, who all seem to claim problems with locks are almost unheard of, hence why they don't know much about the parts options! They obviously don't read here! I have been quoted £75 for a 'complete vehicle emergency lock set', but they couldn't tell me what that included, how many keys or what types of key.

 

I've also got random automatic window opening issues - but I'll have a look for other posts on that before posting a separate question if I'm still looking for advice.

 

Many thanks

Edited August 24, 2010 by Gasman

[Gasman]

Been thinking about this and had some further thoughts:

 

Does the main door lock issue sound like it could just need a new back plate / spring repair kit?

 

If so, I suppose I could:

 

Buy and fit a repair kit:

[ianmoore28]

What about a third party remote kit from ebay about

[Gasman]

What about a third party remote kit from ebay about

[ianmoore28]

What about a third party remote kit from ebay about