Getting keys made without a dupe

[Bernard Littau]

I don't think this duplicate key thing is new, so the risk is so-so.

Keys are easy to make from a code, the trick is getting the code.  I
remember our '72 Datsun 510 needed a key made.  We took the key number to
the dealer, who somehow looked up the cut code from that number (they could
have done it by VIN, too).  A blank key was put into a hand device that
looked more like a hefty pair of pliers than anything else.  It did have a
little wheel on it. The parts tech dialed a number, squeezed the "pliers",
moved the key, dialed a number...  Voila, a new key in 60 seconds.

I've had other keys made just as easily from a code.  In fact, I've, with
the aid of a locksmith, revived a key that suffered from being a copy of a
copy and then some wear.  The locksmith knew the original key was code cut,
so he micrometered my failing key, derived the cut codes from the
measurements, and made a new cut code key.

My sense is that the VIN to cut code database, or key registration number to
cut code database, is somewhat guarded so that it does not fall into the
wrong hands too easily.

Now, on modern cars, having a key is only part of the equation.  On our
Saab, one needs the correct key to turn the lock, but one also needs a
transponder code (typically embedded in the key) to enable the ECU.  Keys
(really transponders) are married to the car via having the car and the
key/transponder and an ECU scan tool and a tech all together to perform the
marriage.  If the ECU does not recognize the transponder code, no go.  Yes,
if the little battery on the transponder dies, you are stuck.

Just a little more, to help foster some more car being stolen paranoia.  I
gather that car manufacturers have a contest each year to showcase what cars
are the most difficult to steal.  The year that Saab introduced the
key/transponder system, Saab essentially won the competition by having the
car be un-steal-able within the rules and time limits of the competition.

Saab no longer touts that contest, which tells me that there are now people
out there with Saab Tech-2 scan tools and extra transponders that go to
these competitions.

I see that thumb print scanners are getting quite inexpensive, I wonder how
long before a car is sold with a thumb print scanner either replacing, or in
addition to, a key.  Here is one for home use I just looked up.  I saw one
this past January at the home show for $350 or so.
http://www.keylesspro.com/biometric.htm

Bernard Littau
Woodinville, WA
'88 5ktq