Switch blade key questions (Tony Lum)

[Unka Bart]

Hi Tony

> I'm new to these high tech keys and have a couple questions:
>
> 1. If the batteries die, does the key lose its programming?

I'm pretty sure that's the case.  My R32 had that key, and so does my  
Jetta TDI Sportwagen, but neither battery had died on me so I can't  
tell you for sure.  Still, I don't see how it would retain  
programming without a battery.  (Maybe with an internal EPROM?  I  
just don't know...)
>
> 2. What's the red button on the side for?

It's the Panic button and sets off the vehicle alarm. and starts the  
headlights flashing.  Use it to locate your car in a parking lot.   
And to piss-off lots of folks...
>
> 3.? I've only got the one key, what's the best way to get another??  
> Dealer?? Local locksmith?

Dealers  charge $200-250 for a repacement.  They can be obtained  
elsewhere for around $100.  (Maybe less, Google is your friend)
>
> 4. Can you program the key yourself or does the dealer have to do it?

You could probably do it yourself, if you are sufficiently  
technically inclined and have a VAG-com gizmo.  Go over to one of the  
VW message boards and ask there, all of these questions come up from  
time to time, I just don't have any bookmarked.

HTH, Bart