Broken door lock key...new cylinder or new set of handles/locks?

[msmall215]

Went to unlock my '83 SC the other night and the lock key snapped right half when I hit some resistance on the lock. The local hardware can't make a copy because the two pieces are slightly twisted. I've thought about going to the local dealer and seeing if they order a replacement key, but I have a feeling the locks have been changed over the years

IMG_1970 by Michael Small, on Flickr

So now I'm looking at two options and wanted to see if anyone has had a similar experience and what they had done.

1) Get a new lock cylinder/key set for the driver door from our host and try and have the passenger cylinder re-keyed
Pelican Parts - European Automotive Parts and Accessories - Porsche • BMW • Mercedes • Volkswagen • Audi • Saab • Volvo • MINI

2) Order a new set of JP Group (Dansk) handles/locks from DC Auto
https://dc-automotive.myshopify.com/products/porsche-911-964-77-94-door-handle-set-complete-black-with-key?variant=34048106830

My gut says go with #1 as any semi-capable shop should be able to re-key the passenger cylinder, but open to thoughts/opinions.

Thanks!

Mike

[froggert]

Is that the only key you have? Wouldn't you also have to rekey the ignition?

I would try a good locksmith and see if they could make you a key from the two halves before swapping out cylinders.

[msmall215]

Originally Posted by froggert

Is that the only key you have? Wouldn't you also have to rekey the ignition?

I would try a good locksmith and see if they could make you a key from the two halves before swapping out cylinders.

Nope, separate keys for the ignition and door locks. The local hardware place I went to also has a very decent locksmith who is the one who didn't think he could make a copy due to the warping.

[Flat6pac]

If it's different than your ignition key, pull the door handle, then the cylinder with the ignition key in the cylinder so the foils and springs don't fall out. With key in all the way, grind the tips extending out of the cylinder down smooth.
Put the cylinder back in the handle and see that you can turn the key in the cylinder to lock and unlock.
Bruce

[997at]

A good locksmith can make a key using a blank and your door lock alone. Had it done on mine when I lost the keys a year or so ago. Worked perfectly.

[donporfi]

A good locksmith should be able to cut a duplicate of the broken key, it is not rocket science. The guy at the hardware store does not have the skills or the desire to do a good service.

[turbo owner]

Originally Posted by 997at

A good locksmith can make a key using a blank and your door lock alone. Had it done on mine when I lost the keys a year or so ago. Worked perfectly.

This, had new key made from nothing in the past.

[darrin]

How would the OP go about getting the door locks keyed to the ignition key?

[turbo owner]

Originally Posted by darrin

How would the OP go about getting the door locks keyed to the ignition key?

A good lock smith can do that as well

[Ionizer]

Originally Posted by darrin

How would the OP go about getting the door locks keyed to the ignition key?

It's not that complicated.

I just took the door locks out and sacrificed the glove box locking cylinder for parts. Parts could probably also be taken from any old car with a similar lock, like an old VW or AUDI. I would not be surprised if the entire locking cylinder is identical to a MKI Golf / AUDI 80.

VWVortex.com - How to: Repair or re-key door locks

Did some trial and error and switched the little locking tabs around until they matched the ignition key. Done.

If the key broke it's probably a god idea to also clean and lube the locking mechanism in the door. It should turn easy and just snap into lock/unlock position.