Hi all,

I have a 2000 S40 and I went into Firestone for a routine battery change. They ended up snapping my key in half while putting it in the ignition. Eventually they got a locksmith to get it out. I got my key glued together by a mechanic, but it doesn't work perfectly anymore and I have to jiggle it for a few minutes before I can get it to start.

Anyway, I'm sure I could get a lawsuit filed, but I'm a broke grad student so I don't have the time or the money.

My question is: what is the cheapest and easiest way to get a new key? I don't have a spare and the dealership said it would cost $300 for a new key! Surely there is a better way. It doesn't have a chip in it but I've been told that it can't be cut by a locksmith because it needs programming. I still don't understand why that is the case.

Any advice would be lovely, thank you!

 

From what you've conveyed, Firestone is liable. So, if it were me, I'd get the key from Volvo, and have Firestone reimburse me. If you go that route, be sure to confirm with Firestone that they are taking care of the bill.

 

Firestone claimed there was a crack in my key and that's why it broke. There was a small crack, but it was totally fine when I was using it. I don't think they'll admit it was their fault.

 

Sounds like you're on your own. I'd still have Volvo do the key.

 

check out 2000 - 2004 Volvo S40 V40 Master Transponder Key OEM

You can call around for an automotive locksmith to see if they can cut/code a master blank.

 

I believe a Volvo Dealership is the only place you can get the key programmed.

Correct if I'm wrong.

 

The dealer is the only option. Unless you find a locksmith that does enough Volvo keys to invest in VIDA and a software subscription. That costs money. Guess who pays for it.

 

ah okay, well thank you all for the replies!

So would it save me any money if I buy a blank key ahead of time and have them program it for me? Or would they even do that?

Looks like I'll have to find $300 somewhere, thanks Firestone!

 

Probably not much. The key is cheap. Its the labor and software that makes it expensive.

I would still press Firestone. Maybe see if they will split it.

 

Check with your dealer and see if they will let you supply the uncut key.