Date:         Mon, 15 Nov 2004 08:11:17 -0800
Reply-To:     jbange <hfinn@INGRATES.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         jbange <hfinn@INGRATES.NET>
Subject:      Re: Making keys
In-Reply-To:  <d48088a7041115022635f72d05@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"; format=flowed

>I lost the only set of keys I had. Yes a really dumb move not having a spare.
>
>Wondering if I can get keys made from the VIN or do I have to change
>out the ignition cylinders door lock cylinders? The latter could be
>expensive.
>
>Anybody with experinece in this regard.

Pull one of the door handles off (passenger or driver). They're held on
with a single phillips screw on the edge of the door under the
weatherstripping. Stamped on the handle mechanism you will find a four
digit number. Take this number to any decent locksmith and ask for a key
cut to that code. Call around first. If they want to charge more than
$10-$20, try somewhere else-- these keys are no big deal to code cut if you
have the right tools. Your best bet is to actually take the door handle in
with you so you can try it out. If the key that opened the door was the
same as the ignition key before, you're set. If you had a different key for
the ignition, you're looking at a new ignition lock.

John Bange
'90 Vanagon "Geldsauger"