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What do you guys think of this key blank? Nice or rice? I've been thinking of getting a new key made and might get an STI blank or maybe something like this. I'm just not sure what I think of it.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayI ... gory=40016

I like the STi one way better than that one.

I'm at school and ebay's blocked by the sonic wall, but if you're referring to an actual STi key, it will not fit. Those newer keys are wider than ours and have slightly different characteristics.

on the subject... Is it still possible to have keys cut from the VIN, or are the cars too old?

I believe Phil has that key.

It's possible to make STi keys fit in the doors; you need to file/grind them down so they're a little thinner. I think they already fit in the ignition though.

It's possible to have your key cut from the VIN if the dealer that originally sold your car still has the key code lying around. A lot of dealers throw them out after enough years. If you still have your original key, you can just read the 4-digit code right off the base of the key though.

My key blank says "Datsun" on it.

He he, mine too. Another said Nissan.

Steve

Mine says "FOR SUBARU"
it's a duplicate.

My original black handled with the grey subaru emblem button that lit up a lil green led broke and I just have the key part left..

I have a subaru oem key. black rubber part = the best. I wanted one of those with the light

I still have all 3 of my oem keys actually. I have the black rubber one but it's so worn that I can't use it to get a new one cut. Then I have my metal one, which is the one I want to use to cut a new rubber one or STI or whatever. Then I have the valet key which is brand spankin' new.

Yep, I've got that key. It bends easy as shit though. I pulled my key chain out of my pocket at school and the key was slightly bent. REALLY soft metal.

I want to get an STi key now though. They seem to be a bit sturdier.

If you have your original key, all you need is the 4-digit code at the base of the key for any competent and well-equipped locksmith shop to cut you a brand new key that'll fit like a glove.

If you know the code, it might be a good idea to memorize it just in case you ever are locked out but can reach a locksmith.

both of the keys i have are very well used, they're both originals, but all the corners are rounded... I was thinking if i got a new key cut from vin, everything'd be crisp and sharp.

What I'm saying is that you don't need the VIN if you have the original key. "Cutting from the VIN" really means "looking up which dealership originally sold the car, calling them, getting the 4-digit code from their records, and cutting a key with that code." You can short-circuit the whole process if you already have the code that's stamped on the key.

and it'll cut the exact key that I need? I was not aware of that!

Yup!

Hmm... I wonder if they still do that.

Next time you see Art's keys, take a gander at his keychain. If there's a 4-digit number on the STi's key, memorize it.

hrm.....

lol.

"I think i'll leave my car here this week, I have an alternate mode of transportation today."

LaureltheQueen wrote:and it'll cut the exact key that I need? I was not aware of that!

I have done that several times with my local dealer - on my 91's that I have had.

Just ask them to make you a key, as your original is getting worn.

This is assuming the locks have never been changed for whatever reason over the years..

Hey! That's the exact key I have! Bends easy?? Not mine! Mine is completely straight and looks like it was cut yesterday!

All I have to say is have a professional locksmith cut it. That key will be $20 when all is said and done! I took it to a professional who hand-read the code by the depth of cuts, and he screwed it up. He reimbursed me and I bought another key. He did it right the next time.

Either way, I like the key a lot!

my sti key fits in every lock with no mods done to the key.