[js0606]

Ok, here's the deal folks!!! I've had this problem and it was driving my nuts to pay 300 - 500 from the dealer service dept. I was also not happy about 130.00 for the part and 80.00 to have it coded if I did most of the labor myself. So, here's how you do this for 62.00 TOTAL!!!

1. Check another forum here on how to get the lock cylinder out. I can't find the link now but someone wrote up a great piece with pics included on how to do this. Thanks to whoever did that!!! It totally helped me. If the key won't turn, the hammer or palm of the hand trick worked for me. I had to pop it pretty hard with the hammer to get it but it finally turned. I broke a screwdriver but I got it out.

2. Once you get the lock cylinder out, take it and the key to your local locksmith. Do NOT go to a dealership, aftermarket Auto Parts store or junk yard! Go to a reputable locksmith. He should have the lock cylinder for sell and should be able to code it easily. Usually 4-6 hours depending on how busy he is.

3. I originally bought the part from a parts store for 130.00 and then took it to the locksmith. He had me take the part back and he coded one he sold me just fine. The brand he carried was Strat Tec and he told me that all they did was locks and cylinders.

4. I took it back home, got it into the car and it cranked and runs great. The hardest part of the whose procedure was getting the screw right under the lock cylinder back through the plastic housing around the steering column.

42.00 plus tax for the lock cylinder and 15.00 to code it.

Now, he did say that I needed a new key and to do that, he gave me the box with the code written on the side. He said I needed to bring the box and the car back to get a spare key. Total for that is 75.00.

Good Luck and stay away from these thieves who try to convince you they have to do the work!!!

js06060