2001 s40 Key problem

mickreed · Post by **mickreed** » 07 May 2014, 15:22

Just bought this car for my daughter, came with one key and one fob. After much searching I realize that going to the dealer and paying $350 ish for a spare set is pretty much where I am at.
But....I found that the single key that I have won't insert into the trunk or the glove box locks.
So... my question is would it be doable to go to a wrecking yard and get an ignition with keys, both door locks, trunk and glove box locks along with the immobilizer and just replace them with the ones in the car now?
What do you think?
Doesn't seem like I would have to get the dealership involved, plus all my locks would work.

FixXxer6 · Post by **FixXxer6** » 08 May 2014, 09:26

It sounds like you just have the valet key. I've seen people sell blanks on the web for cheap and then you go to the dealer to have it cut and programmed. Most dealers can cut a key using the VIN# for reference. I've never done it but it would probably be easier than changing all of the locks. Not sure. Just a thought.

mf70 · Post by **mf70** » 12 May 2014, 17:55

MySwedish parts.com can cut a keyblade from the VIN for $27.
They alsu have new key remotes for $70. You will still tip the dealer $180 +- to program your CEM.
Make sure the cancel the old key at the same time.
Been there with an '06.

mickreed · Post by **mickreed** » 22 May 2014, 10:30

Thanks everyone. I am new to Volvos so it appears this was a rookie mistake on my part.
FixX was right, It appears that my key is a valet key. I had never heard of such a thing.
I wish they guy I bought it from would have told me. He had to know.

mickreed · Post by **mickreed** » 22 May 2014, 10:31

My locksmith said I should have known since the key was grey.

FixXxer6 · Post by **FixXxer6** » 23 May 2014, 07:03

Glad you got it worked out. Yes, the seller should have told you. They had to have known that it wouldn't unlock certain parts of the car even if they didn't know what type of key it was. As far as the comment from the locksmith goes, I wouldn't let it bother you. However it is irritating when a "professional" of a trade gives you grief about not knowing. If you knew about locksmithing, you wouldn't have called them and given them your money. The IT dept for my company is the same way. If I have a problem with my computer, I call them and they act like I should know how to repair it. I'm like, "Why do you get aggravated when anyone calls you about computer problems, this is what you chose to do for a living".

Anyway, sorry for the rant. I'm glad you got it figured out.

Peixinho · Post by **Peixinho** » 31 May 2016, 06:54

Hi,

I have a vallet and "normal" key on my 1995 volvo 960

The difference between the two keys is only a tiny detail. So, I believe that with a vallet key and a bit of a drill you can make a normal key.

Good luck!