-
Did you misplaced or broken the keys to your Buick? Do you want to duplicate transponder key, remote keyfob or sidewinder? Googling for a budget and convenience key replacement services?
Okey DoKey Locksmith offer 24/7 fast and affordable Buick replacement key. Call (832)408-0006 for immediate assistance, free estimate and scheduling. Our expert mobile car locksmith come to you to copy or replace your lost keys on-site.
Furthermore, we can solve all your Buick locks, key and ignition issues.
Contents
In 1990 GM introduced the VATS key-lock on the Buick Reatta. The VATS technology used on the following Buick models:
In 1995, Buick started to use PASSkey technology on the Buick Skylark. The technology were slowly adopted on other models and the PASSKey II systems followed shortly. Most Buick OEM keys stamped with a PK or PK2.
In 2005, Buick started to use PASSkey 3 transponder technology on the Buick LaCrosse. The technology were slowly adopted on other models. The PASSKey 3+ systems followed shortly and today, Buick uses it on most models. Most Buick OEM keys stamped with a PK3, PK3+ or just a "+".
In 2010, Buick started to use sidewinder transponder keys with encrypted signals on the Buick LaCrosse. Every year, GM is changing the key-lock on more models to this high security sidewinder.
From 2007 few Buick models adopt the Passive Entry Passive Start (PEPS) with push-button start ignition. The keyless entry devbice contain a transponder chip and is an optional feature on specific vehicle.
Buick transponder keys used mainly as an anti-theft technology. The immobilizer configured to accept each unique programmed key by a code. When a key with unmatched code turned in the ignition, the vehicle will not start.
The VATS key uses a resistor pelet in key "shaft" and a Theft Deterrent Module to validates the key. There are only 15 different ressistances possible for the key. If the TDM recognize the resistance value, it will send a valid key signal to the PCM allowing it to start.
In Passkey system is actually not a transponder, but very similar to the VATS! The Theft Deterrent Module validates the resistance of the chip in the key. The PASSKey includes more that a 100 resistances.
In addition to the resistance check, PASSKey also use the PASSLock system as an extra safety feature. The PASSLock module and measures and record voltage data through a magnitude sensor placed on the ignition. It basicly check the proper key cut profile and determines if the cylinder is aligned. If the PASSLock recognize the key it will allow the car to start. This is effective when cylider is broken, damaged or picked usually by a thief trying to hotwire the vehicle.
PassKey II works like the PassKey I, but the TDM is built into the BCM instead of the ignition. The BCM sends a digital start/no start signal to the PCM over the data bus. One more change from PASSKey I is that halting the engine done by the fuel system instead of the ignition.
The Passlock III is actually the first transponder used by GM. The chip is located inside the plastic covering of the key and stamped "PK3" on the metal blade. The ignition lock cylinder contain an antenna that reads the transponder data and sends a it to the PCM. If the PCM recognize the code from the key, it will allow the engine to drive. Some higher end models use a key fob instead of metal blade.
Later version of the PK3 called PK3+ or + have the same infrastructure and fuctionality as the PK3 system. The only difference is that the PK3+ use an encrypted transponder and requires dedicated programmers.
VATS/PASSKEY I/II duplication requires special VATS reader and is possible and not recommended as a DIY project. For more information read here about VATS keys.
Buick uses a simple on-board procedure to add keys for the PASSKey III vehicles using one already programmed key. First you need to have a blank key or buy cut key online. Once you have the key in hand, follow to following instruction to program a dublicate key yourself.
Following are the list of Buick models that use transponders:
Buick use a very simple technique to duplicate PK keys. All you need is one existing programmed key and a new blank transponder key and follow the instruction below:
Using the VIN and proof of ownership, a locksmith or the dealer can duplicate a new key.
There is also a way to clone the key chip value to a blank read/write chip key. This usually done by a locksmith or the dealer using a dedicated programmers and tools.
If you lost all your keys to a Buick that made before 1990, your key has no chip. All you need to do is to go to the dealer or to a locksmith store with the VIN and cut a new key.
This process is quite simple and should cost less than a 100$ in most cases.
One exception to the above is if the ignition changed and is not in sync with the VIN. In this case a locksmith need to replace the ignition again or to make a new key. This done by reading the key grooves inside the ignition cylinder. This process is more complex and requires a locksmith with the right machine and experience.
If you Buick made between 1990 to 1997, your key might be a VATS.
When losing all VATS keys, a new key has to sync with the resistance of the TDM on the lock cylinder. This means that the car towed to the dealership or to use the service of a mobile locksmith who will come out to the site of where the car is at.
If you Buick made after 1997, your key probably uses a PASSKey III transponder chip. When losing all the keys to an transponder immobilized Buick, the ECU reprogrammed to accept a new key. For this, the car towed to the dealership or to use the service of a mobile locksmith who will come out to you.
There are many reasons for ignition problems! Please check our article about ignition repair and replacement.
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Car Lockout | $60-$120 |
| Locked keys in trunk | $60-$190 |
| Door lock rekey/repair/change | $160-$280 |
| Lost key replacement | $120-$200 |
| Duplicate car key | $100-$180 |
| Remote/Flip keys | $200-$300 |
| Keyless entry device | $220-$320 |
| Ignition repair | $110-$180 |
| Key extraction | $80-$130 |
| Ignition replacement | $160-$280 |
| ECU re-flash | $225-$285 |
* Estimates above includes the technician coming out to you the parts and the labor.
Final price depends on:
The tech will diagnose the vehicle and provide a price for you to approve before doing anything.
Our emergency mobile car lock-smith are in working order 24/7 rain or shine. Ready to handle all your Buick keys and locks pains. We usually arrive at customer location fast.
Our van is fully equipped to the brim with modern cutting, diagnostic and programming appliances able to restore keys onsite. A key replacement process for a vehicle in most cases done same day.
We take great pride in outfitting an inexpensive cost and reliable services. Give us a call at (832)408-0006 for a FREE ESTIMATE and our Buick expert will arrive to your place ASAP. Okey DoKey Locksmith is always here to meet your needs in a professional way.
What car dealerships don't want you to know
Free car lockout service
how to prevent home burglary?
Commercial and residential lock brands
Didn't find what you where looking for?
Search for locks and keys services on our website.
