Programing smart car key

[jeffj]

My dealer lost one of my keys, It's been 6 weeks, one wrong key and now it finally came in.
They say i need to bring in the original key and the car in to program the key.
The service dept. gave me a long explaination on how they have to contact Smart
in Europe and get a special code before they can start the process. i couldn't find
any information in the owners manual. Does anyone know what the process is?

[jmcalli]

My Smart salesperson cautioned me not to lose the key. If I did, I would have to give them my spare and it would cost about $250.00 to produce a duplicate of it. Besides just machining the new key, she said it would also require "programming." She didn't say how long it would take.

James

[Mud Pie]

Originally Posted by RedharleyRay

... removed, administrative action: inappropriate language & multiple postings

If your ECU goes out, you're REALLY gonna be mad !!

[Black-ohio-brabus]

how do you people lose your keys so easy??? Don't you keep track of your things maybe the owners should stop being so care free with there keys

[WhiteNBlack08]

Originally Posted by Black-ohio-brabus

how do you people lose your keys so easy??? Don't you keep track of your things maybe the owners should stop being so care free with there keys

Exactly, I've been driving for 20+ years, and have NEVER lost a key. In fact I am still using the original key for my 1983 Plymouth. The nickel plating is worn off and the teeth are rounded from use.

[Black-ohio-brabus]

if people are careless with there keys just think why there house looks like and how they drive come on people get it **** togeather stop being lazy Americans

[smartSEATTLE]

Originally Posted by jeffj

My dealer lost one of my keys, It's been 6 weeks, one wrong key and now it finally came in.
They say i need to bring in the original key and the car in to program the key.
The service dept. gave me a long explaination on how they have to contact Smart
in Europe and get a special code before they can start the process. i couldn't find
any information in the owners manual. Does anyone know what the process is?

In order to program a key we have to get a code from your car (actually the code can be gotten from any smart they just like us to use your vehicle)

Then this code is sent to DTAC in Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield uses the code sent to them to get a series of codes from Germany, usually 3 to 6 codes. These codes are entered into your vehicle to program the keys to your car. One code is used per attempt to program. If there is a problem the code is not able to be used again and you have to use the next code.

These codes that are given to the dealer are only valid for 5 days as well. This is why most dealers will not request the codes from DTAC until they have your vehicle there.

Also the info about losing the keys is correct. If all keys are lost/stolen to your vehicle you will be replacing thh SAM unit as well as purchasing two new keys. Not a cheap repair.

[SuperGeek]

How much is not cheap? You mean reprogram the SAM, I hope. Why can't we reprogram new keys for a functioning SAM?

[forestacademy]

Originally Posted by SuperGeek

How much is not cheap? You mean reprogram the SAM, I hope. Why can't we reprogram new keys for a functioning SAM?

Lose both keys at the same time and it will be big Bucks and lots of Wammys.

You will need to replace the SAM if both keys are lost at once.

[jwarner6]

In my 02 Supercrew I can make as many additional keys as I want just by going through a procedure with the ignition and two good keys. Therefore I will always have three keys in case one gets lost (probably by my son) then I can create a new third (insurance) key. I can program new key fobs in a similar fashion. Too bad the smart isn't this smart.

Just an FYI about electronic keys and how easy or not easy it can be to dodge a bullet.

Jeff