Key to good service

[jonathan_dyane]

Is usually listening to the customer.

I ordered a new key today, and despite having meticulously measured the key to ascertain the key number, the helpful parts counter employee refused to use it, insisting that the key had to be ordered on the VIN. If when it arrives it is a blank I shall not be impressed...

[Peter.N.]

Jobsworth

[xmexclusive]

Hi johnathan

The order is supposed to quote both numbers for security reasons.
If the VIN records and car key code do not match the order should be refused.

Incompetent jobsworth!!!

John

[jonathan_dyane]

The fools! It probably doesn't help that the dealer has only appeared in the last few months, but they're the nearest for miles. But if it arrives and fits I'll still be happy!

[jonathan_dyane]

Well thankfully it seems I was perhaps overly sceptical; my new key arrived today and fits beautifully. Fortuitous that the car must still be on its original locks...

[xmexclusive]

Hi Johnathan

If you do not mind it might help others to know the price of an ordered key.
It seems that it came quickly in about 3 days or so.
That it is an original key and not cut from a worn blade is a real plus.
So is the fact that it could just as easily have been a plip blade key.
They are virtually impossible to source as blanks unless bought from a Citroen dealer.

John

[jonathan_dyane]

Sorry John, I should have thought to include the price, it was £12.44 for a key, so I dare say a chip blade would be even cheaper; I thought it was pretty good value, and makes trying to get a key cutter to try and make one a waste of time.

I would however recommend that if possible, to have the key cut from the key code (there is a post somewhere that shows you how to 'read' the key) rather than the VIN, just in case the car has ever had the locks changed.

Best,

[robert_e_smart]

That is good value for mone, escpecially since it was ordered from a main dealer. And speedy service. Uselful to know.

I got a spare key cut for my 2.0 Si in the locksmiths, and it was perfect in the locks, but not great in the ignition barrel. A light sanding of the new key got it to work in the ignition switch.