blacky

Recently had locksmith cut 5 new keys by trace from original. $25 each.

Programming was easy. Put in already programmed key, turned to ON without starting, then back out. Then put in un-programmed key, turned to ON without trying to start, then back out. Done. There was an icon, as I recall of a lock that went from locked to unlocked (something like that), that made it clear when the new key was programmed and could be removed.

Curious as to how robust these keys are to the elements; and also to under-hood conditions such as under water, DEXCOOL, motor oil, DOT brake fluid. The key itself might in an issue, but I'm more worried about what I can't see - the programmed chip. The spare keys are "ilco."

donbrew

There is a lifetime total number of individual keys that any one steering column can be matched to. So, don't lose any of those.

You will never be able to mess the chip in the key up, unless you play with a drill.

blacky

Do you know the lifetime maximum? Would that drilling into the ignition lock would work - if only.

As to messing up the chip, the robustness is great news. I forgot to ask about temperature. Would a steady diet of, say, 250 F, be harmful?

843de

Per GM, the maximum lifetime number of keys is 10, after that replacement of the column would be required.

Such an obsession with drills blacky, were you a dentist in a past life?

Silverfox

Good one Mike...

I long for Missesa Wiggins and Mr. Tugvol too !!

What a Kick.

SF

blacky

Not so fast. There may be a so-called lifetime maximum, but via the OBD connector under dash the locksmith can delete the original code and reprogram with a new code. No need to drill the steering column.

donbrew

Wrong! The steering column is independent of the BCM on that side. You are correct if you meant KEYfob. Anti-theft provisions.