Key Problem

Skelly · #1 02-16-2009, 02:57 AM

I had a problem with my ignition key last week in the extreme cold. It bent as I put it in the ignition and I think beyond saving. Can anyone tell me how I go about getting a new key? Would I have to go to Subaru for this?

The other thing is that I think the other key I have is a spare key but it doesn't seem to be able to start the car. I put it in the ignition and turn it which starts the electric aerial so power is there but the car does not start.

I am at a loss so any help would be much appreciated.

Thanks

Tim

Blacky · #2 02-16-2009, 05:43 AM

It sounds like you may have an issue with your ignition switch.
I think you can get a key cut anywhere if yours is not too wrecked, otherwise you would need to go to a dealer.

Mike621 · #3 02-16-2009, 08:07 AM

I get all of my SVX keys cut on factory blanks at the dealer for ~$6-$9 each roughly, depending on which one I go to.

Manarius · #4 02-16-2009, 09:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mike621

I get all of my SVX keys cut on factory blanks at the dealer for ~$6-$9 each roughly, depending on which one I go to.

In addition to this, if the dealer has your car on record, they can cut the key based off the key number, not having to make a mechanical copy.

Mike621 · #5 02-16-2009, 09:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Manarius

In addition to this, if the dealer has your car on record, they can cut the key based off the key number, not having to make a mechanical copy.

I had this done on a couple SVXs (a 94 and a 95) but haven't had luck with 92's or my 93 recently.

ensteele · #6 02-16-2009, 10:05 AM

You usually have to take the registration in, but they can cut the key from looking up the VIN. Good luck.

Mike621 · #7 02-16-2009, 10:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ensteele

You usually have to take the registration in, but they can cut the key from looking up the VIN. Good luck.

I did bring the reg, but two dealers said that the 92-93 key codes were no longer on file.

ensteele · #8 02-16-2009, 12:32 PM

Now that makes a lot of sence! You don't even have to keep an inventory of parts to have that.

Mike621 · #9 02-16-2009, 01:40 PM

Yeah. It was rather disappointing to hear that.

ensteele · #10 02-16-2009, 02:16 PM

Do you need that info anymore? I might be able to find someone who has it.

svxistentialist · #11 02-16-2009, 03:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Skelly

I had a problem with my ignition key last week in the extreme cold. It bent as I put it in the ignition and I think beyond saving. Can anyone tell me how I go about getting a new key? Would I have to go to Subaru for this?

The other thing is that I think the other key I have is a spare key but it doesn't seem to be able to start the car. I put it in the ignition and turn it which starts the electric aerial so power is there but the car does not start.

I am at a loss so any help would be much appreciated.

Thanks

Tim

Tim

I'm not exactly sure on your problem, but I can offer suggestions if that's OK.

First, the spare key you have, you say it turns on the aerial. Can you confirm the ignition is ON, and dash lights are lit up?

Presuming they are ON and you have ignition, are you able to turn ignition key to the start position? Assuming you are doing this and the starter is not turning over the engine you need to look at a few things.

First thing, battery power/voltage. There could be enough to raise the aerial while not having enough to turn or start the engine. The way to check this if you don't have a voltage meter would be to turn on the headlights. Then try starting the car. If the lights die way down the battery is not charged up enough. Charge up the battery.

Next thing could be the interlock circuit. Move the gear lever. Make sure it is securely in N or in P. If it is not, there is a solenoid that stops the ignition circuit from powering up. If your battery is up, try the starter circuit now.

If that does not work then the ignition tumbler is not working properly. It may have been working OK with the older "looser" key, but may not be moving fully to the ignition point for the newer spare. Fiddle with it a bit.

Try these and let us know if any of them work.

Joe

Skelly · #12 02-17-2009, 02:20 AM

Thanks guys, I'll try a few of those and see how I go.

Cheers

Tim

blueji · #13 02-24-2009, 01:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Skelly

I had a problem with my ignition key last week in the extreme cold. It bent as I put it in the ignition and I think beyond saving. Can anyone tell me how I go about getting a new key? Would I have to go to Subaru for this?

The other thing is that I think the other key I have is a spare key but it doesn't seem to be able to start the car. I put it in the ignition and turn it which starts the electric aerial so power is there but the car does not start.

I am at a loss so any help would be much appreciated.

Thanks

Tim

I bought 2 new genuine keys from SMALLCAR in the states, and got them cut at our local Cobbler ( who has the gear to key cut) at half the cost of Subaru main dealer.

My problem of an iffy ignition switch was when it had come loose on the column,..... removed the plastic shroud, tightened up the fixings and now works as smooth as a smooth thing.

John

Skelly · #14 05-06-2009, 04:09 AM

Just thought I'd let you guys know the key problem is solved finally. I got a new key from Subaru for about £12 but it didn't start the car. My trusty mechanic had a look last night and put the old key near the ignition and that has a chip in it so it freed it up and started straight away. Not sure if I need the chip everytme but will try tonight.

Thanks for all you help, much appreciated.

Now the car is running like a dream and I'll be driving her everyday this summer.

Cheers

Tim