All the previous search results were at least 2 years old, so I'll start a new one to get the Current State of the Art.

I had a break-in at my home, and one of the Smartkeys was stolen. Can anyone give me any ideas of what the current situation is regarding cost or availability of 3rd party units?

I'd like to try to get by as inexpensively as possible, as the money is really tight.

Thanks.
Scott

 

Scott,

At one time, you could not re-program a used key but that might have changed either with the dealer or (a cheaper alternative) a GOOD locksmith with the proper equipment. If you go the third party route, get a reputable locksmith to furnish and program the key as well as cutting the emergency key stored on the side instead of buying from Amazon or other sites and then have them claim that the locksmith screwed it up while programing the key. They should be quite a bit cheaper than most dealers but you could also check with them on the price.

 

And when you get a new key, don't forget to have them deactivate the stolen key in the immobilizer.

 

Yes, it's important to deactivate the stolen key in the immobilizer either by calling a locksmith or the dealership.