928 Key Replacement
1. Key Length
928 keys come in two distinct lengths from the "shoulder"
to the tip of the key, namely:
- 25 mm (short) regular; and
- 35 mm (long) "S-Key".
The extra length on the tip of the longer "S-Key" is used to
control the optional factory fitted alarm (which were available from at
least 1980).
You can use a short key in a long ignition lock, provided that the
ignition immobiliser is either off or disabled.
2. Cutting from the VIN
If the key is worn, then copying a new key from it will only cut you a
new worn key. So, cutting from the VIN is the best option if you can
afford to wait. However, your locks must be original (i.e. match the VIN)
and the cost may be considerably higher than some key cutters.
You can take your VIN along with proof of ownership to a Porsche
Distributor. Expect to pay $115 for a normal key and $150 for one with a
torch in the head. And wait two weeks for the key to come in from Germany.
Alternatively Devek <www.devek.net> is cheaper. Send then your
VIN and photocopy of your registration and they will send you a
"normal" key for US$20 or a lighted key head for an extra US$11
(not sure if this includes postage).
3. Sources of Blanks
Cutting from the VIN won't work if the locks have been changed.
Figure out whether you need a long key or a short key.
A locksmith who can cut you a key will almost certainly have blanks.
This is probably the best approach, since they can examine your existing
key before choosing the appropriate blank.
Blanks are also available from Mitre 10. They may not have them hanging
on the wall but will get them for you. About $7. Like a fair bit of the
928, the keys and locks are made in Italy. Silca is the brand name, short
blank number is HU42P.
Blanks may also be found on Ebay.
4. Local Key Cutting
928 (and other Porsche) keys are somewhat special in their design.
Their blanks are rectangular and have to be cut at an angle of 45 to the
normal horizontal position. A special adaptor is required to cut the keys
on standard key cutting machines.
Only a small number of locksmiths have the required adaptor. It's
specific to Porsche, expensive, and business volume is not exactly huge.
Some charge a premium for using it. Some don't.
It's almost mandatory to take your car, or at least the locks, to the
locksmith, as the cut key will almost certainly require 'fine tuning'.
5. Locksmiths by Location in Australia
Brisbane:
- Larsens, 21 Hudson Road, Albion. $25 for a "short" key,
last time I went there.
Melbourne:
- Larners on Springvale Rd in Nunawading (near the rail crossing) that
do all locksmith work for Porsche Centre Melbourne. Multiple
recommendations.
Perth:
- Western Locks cut it for me for $25. Their regular price to supply
and cut was $80, but the guy was embarrassed to charge that much for a
simple cut job. This is the long key, for cars with the factory alarm
(I think).
Sydney:
1. Adam Gilmore owns A.M.G Locksmiths in Dee Why Sydney. Number is
0412 261 392. He does all the work for Scud's and York Motors. Recommend
highly.
2. Brookvale Barrenjoey Locksmiths About $55
3. Benson Bros. 176 Mitchell Rd Alexandria Ph: (02) 9516 4688 The
cost was $55.00 and they had all the blanks in stock.
Many thanks to the following contributors from landsharkoz:
Graham Bates, Glenn Evans, Jeff Funnell, Rick Heaney,
Matt Nicholson, John Pitman, Peter Quinby, Dean Rogers, Langdon
Stevenson, Garry Sullivan, Bruce Wilson and Leonard Zech
Phil Chadwick.
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