Replacement Key and Cutting, 1989 3.2 Carrera Targa

[Iracema1]

Hi Everyone:

My 3.2 Carrera key (the lighted one) has been sticky in the doors...and has now become difficult to use in the ignition. I have determined the key is bad as the "square" master key works fine in both locations.
I do have the key codes, so what has been the most expedient (e.g. cost effective) way to fix this? I know that Pelican sells a replacement (lighted) key fob with a blank key plate...but if I order that, then I have to cut it, right?

Is it easier to give my code to the local Porsche dealer and let them produce it (for big bucks), or is there a third-party vendor who can cut keys from the codes (or from the old one as a template).

Thanks very much for any advice! I look forward to benefitting from your experience

Best

Andy

[darrin]

At least on the lighted key, the metal key blank can be removed/separated from the lighted head. I bought a new key blank (link to our host -- 1986 Porsche 911 Carrera Targa - Miscellaneous - Page 2 ) and had an "old school" locksmith shop cut it using my existing (and rounded like yours) key as a template. Since the newly cut key had square edges, it works great.

Not sure if your square master key has the same removable blank in a smaller plastic head, but if it uses the same blank as a lighted head, you might well be able to simply insert that blank into the lighted head and then have a new spare cut from the master.

[DRACO A5OG]

Find a reputable old school locksmith. One that makes keys for the dealer.

I have one near my house, he regularly makes keys for the Porsche Dealer. In fact the dealer sent me to him. Bought a blank from our host, old guy made it in a snap and worked perfect. $15 to cut.

[steenkamp]

every locksmith should be able to make you one based on the image you posted

[darrin]

Originally Posted by steenkamp

every locksmith should be able to make you one based on the image you posted

While I completely agree with Steenkamp's post above (cutting keys ain't rocket science), given the very high price of the porsche blanks and the rather poor aptitude of the folks relegated to cutting keys at big box hardware stores, I reiterate my suggestion of seeking out an "old school" locksmith -- get it done right the first time.

You might also want/need to run some graphite through the locks after getting the new key cut -- it helped quickly solve a sticky cylinder that manifest itself with my new key on my passenger door

[aoncurly]

Originally Posted by darrin

While I completely agree with Steenkamp's post above (cutting keys ain't rocket science), given the very high price of the porsche blanks and the rather poor aptitude of the folks relegated to cutting keys at big box hardware stores, I reiterate my suggestion of seeking out an "old school" locksmith -- get it done right the first time.

You might also want/need to run some graphite through the locks after getting the new key cut -- it helped quickly solve a sticky cylinder that manifest itself with my new key on my passenger door

+1. Find a reputable, locksmith experienced in cutting Porsche keys. It will save you the cost of someone inexperienced screwing up your blanks. (Happened to me, $30 for a lighted key blank that was messed up by an inexperienced locksmith shop.)

BTW, finding an 'experienced' locksmith is harder and harder to find these days.

A good shop should be able to use your working key to cut a new lighted key blank. The grooves are different for master (black) and valet (red) keys, but the profile should be the same. You shouldn't need your key card or code.

[911SauCy]

Originally Posted by aoncurly

+1. Find a reputable, locksmith experienced in cutting Porsche keys.

BTW, finding an 'experienced' locksmith is harder and harder to find these days.

Lets not over think this.

Very true

[Iracema1]

Thanks everyone! that sounds good!

Does anyone have an "experienced" locksmith that they use here in the SF Bay Area? I live in Marin County in particular

Best

Andy

[heimtun]

I found a local locksmith that specializes in auto keys/locks. He looked at my old key, interpeted the key's cut depths and programmed his key machine to cut the new keys. They'd worked perfectly.
My recommendation - find a specialist locksmith. A cost effective solution. No Porsche "tax".

[hcoles]

I had keys made by the locksmith on Portola near 41st Ave. in Santa Cruz. The blanks she had needed to be filed a bit to get the depth correct, so check that.

[theiceman]

here is what i would do ...

take your working key to a key shop .. have him make some regular spares ( its actiually an old VW key .. ) take it out to your car .. check it ... if it works good then give him your balnk for the head and say now cut this .. never hurts to have extra keys.

[1990C4S]

Anyone know where the blank for an '89 Carrera is on Pelican?

This page Pelican Parts - European Automotive Parts and Accessories - Porsche • BMW • Mercedes • Volkswagen • Audi • Saab • Volvo • MINI

shows it as Part # 911-538-903-00-OEM

But when you click, it does not show 1989 on the list....

[mochaSC]

I had the same problem. I got the 917 style key blank and had a local "old school" locksmith cut the blank. They did it for free and it works great. The big box stores wouldn't even think about it.

[356graham]

IF you can't find anyone in your area, and IF you are a DIY type, and you have more time than money and have a dremmel or similar, a digital camera, a printer and some printer labels, you can do the following which worked for me. I also kind of wanted to see how well this would work. Made new regular and valet keys using this method.

A steady hand and the assumption of some risk you might screw up your new blank is also a prerequisite.

1. Take a picture of the working key against a white background
2. Enhance the picture such that the edge of the key has a very clear contrast
3. Resize picture as required so that when you print it, it comes out 1:1 scale (might take a couple tries)
4. Print enhanced picture of key on a label
5. Cut and stick the label (aligned properly) on your key blank
6. Mount the key in a vise
7. Use a metal cutting wheel in your dremmel
8. Carefully cut your key blank into a key by tracing the shape printed on the label
9. wire brush the sharp edges off (just like they do at the locksmith)

And you are done.

As stated above, you assume some risk here that you might cut too deep and mess up your new blank. There is no second chance.

[donporfi]

Contact Tony Euganeo Home | LockAndKeyID.Com

He usually goes to cut and sell keys to most of the Porsche swap meets. I think he will be in March at the LA lit Show.

[sc_rufctr]

Originally Posted by theiceman

here is what i would do ...

take your working key to a key shop .. have him make some regular spares ( its actiually an old VW key .. ) take it out to your car .. check it ... if it works good then give him your balnk for the head and say now cut this .. never hurts to have extra keys.

I've done exactly this. The VW Key blanks are almost free ($8 to 12) compared to a Porsche key blank.

Lock Smiths use terms like High or Low when cutting keys.
The good ones really know their stuff and can make a new key work properly in a worn barrel.

[DRACO A5OG]

OP you can mail them to me and I can have it made for you. PM me if you wish

or Contact them and send it to them:

Viva Zapata Lock & Key
Locksmith
1809 South Hoover Street, Los Angeles, CA 90006
(213) 747-7165

Like I mentioned they do all Downtown L.A. Porsche keys

[1990C4S]

Do the red (or black) keys fit the newer cars? Or you have to buy the illuminated head?

[theiceman]

i have red black and iluminated head

although i upgraded the lighting system to LED.

[APachon71RN]

I ordered from our Host and love that I have a newer more distinguished key to go with my 911. KeyHole here in Eugene OR cut my key for me and it works quite well.