Key, Mk1

[mrben]

Hello boys/girls...I'v been informed that the ignition key has a device in it, so the car will only start if the key is actually near the ignition (obviously better in the ignition). Is this correct? So, if i had a key cut the same as the ignition key with no chip in it, i'd still have to have the main key in the car near the ignition before it would start? Any ideas?

Thanks. (1.9 td 1999).

[sbgremlin]

The engine is fitted with an immobiliser which allows the engine to turn over but not run without the chip being present in the key. My key fell apart when I opened the door at my local garden centre and the chip fell out. I managed to find the chip and when held next to the key in the ignition I could start the car, however to keep the engine running the chip had to be near the key. I believe the chip has to be present to complete an electric circuit to a fuel solenoid valve, without the circuit the solenoid remains closed and there is no fuel flow to the engine. (Seat Alhambra 1.9 TDI)

[SilverBeast]

The chip responds to a signal from a coil around the ignition switch with a code that allows it to identify it as OK to run. Aparently some keycutters can copy a key and clone (copy) the chip embedded in it from an existing key. Not had it done myself so don't know which

[mrben]

Thanks for your reply's, much appreciated.