Saxo Replacement Keys; Key Cutting; Transponder Keys; Programming; Changing Remote Keyfob Battery - A Guide

1. BobCm Forum Section Moderator Joined: Apr 2009 Orpington Posts: 1406 My son drives a Poseidon Blue Saxo Mk2 1.6i VTR.

   #1 9th May 2009, 14:19

   Electronic immobiliser ignition key
   
   The electronic immobiliser device locks the engine management system as soon as the key is removed from the ignition.
   
   All keys contain an electronic component [transponder chip, see picture below] which ensures that only your key can start your vehicle.
   
   If the electronic immobiliser device does not recognise the key once it has been inserted into the ignition, then it will be impossible to start the vehice.
   
   CODED Card
   
   A confidential card is given to the new owner when he takes delivery of his new vehicle.
   
   The card bears a hidden access code for the use of the Citroen dealer when maintaining the electronic immobiliser device.
   
   Advice
   
   Make a note of the key numbers and the remote control number. Keep the card in a safe place – not in the vehicle.
   
   Keep the coded card bearing the immobiliser access code in a safe place (never in the vehicle).
   
   If any key modifications become necessary (addition, cancellation or replacement of a key), you must take the confidential card together with all keys to a Citroen dealer.
   
   Changing the remote control battery
   
   Pop open the case to the keyfob to gain access to the battery: CR 1620 (3V) button cell and replace the battery.
   
   The remote control must be reinitialised after changing the battery. To do this, use the key to unlock the doors and within 30 seconds press button A [LOCK] on the remote control twice.
   
   Saxo replacement keys, key cutting, remote keyfob battery, coded card
   
   Getting a New Key
   
   If you go to a Citroen dealer you will need:
   - Registration Document (V5)
   - Proof of identity (photocard)
   - Proof of address that must match address on the Registration Document
   - The key number (see picture below)
   
   What can I do if I don’t have a key number?
   You can have your Citroen dealer email Citroen to do a key search from your VIN number on the Registration Document. I was told this costs £15.
   
   Programming a New Key
   
   Once the key has been cut either using the key number or another key as a guide then the immobiliser device needs to be programmed via the ECU to recognise the transponder in the key (see picture). This is where the code on the coded card is needed to gain access to the ECU.
   
   How much does it cost?
   
   I had the key number and Citroen quoted:
   
   £34.33 for replacement key (+£15 without key number)
   £69.50 for a replacement remote control keyfob
   £46.58 for half an hour of labour for programming
   
   Are there other options?
   
   Yes. Auto locksmiths claim to be able to help to replace keys, programme transponder keys, fix or replace broken keys and to help with lost keys or lockout situations. Do a Google Search. Some folks have used Timpsons with success.
   
   Visited Timpsons. Timpsons have many stores and claim to have expertise in cutting transponder keys. They try to read the transponder in your existing key and copy it, then they write that code to a new key that they cut for you. They claim to be able to copy Saxo keys and prices start at £30.
   
   Pictures:
   
   1. Transponder key with remote control keyfob
   2. Transponder key slot
   3. Plastic label with key number highlighted in blue; the other numbers may be for the remote control keyfob
   4. Citroen coded card
   
   IF you get a key cut without a transponder, then this key will be able to open the doors, petrol cap but will not start the car.
   
   If you change the ignition barrel then the key key must be programmed into the immobiliser via the ECU.
   
   A replacement remote control keyfob can be purchased if your fob is physically broken or a plastic button is broken. The inside of the broken remote can be transplanted into the new case.
   
   Cheers

   3 users thanked this post: user_8040, user_10473, logic_guy
2. raunchz Saxperience Addict Joined: Jul 2005 Solihull / Bournemouth Posts: 14233 2015 Lapiz Blue Golf R

   #2 9th May 2009, 14:36

   Quote:

   Originally Posted by BobC Electronic immobiliser ignition key The electronic immobiliser device locks the engine management system as soon as the key is removed from the ignition. All keys contain an electronic component [transponder chip, see picture below] which ensures that only your key can start your vehicle. If the electronic immobiliser device does not recognise the key once it has been inserted into the ignition, then it will be impossible to start the vehice. CODED Card A confidential card is given to the new owner when he takes delivery of his new vehicle. The card bears a hidden access code for the use of the Citroen dealer when maintaining the electronic immobiliser device. Advice Make a note of the key numbers and the remote control number. Keep the card in a safe place – not in the vehicle. Keep the coded card bearing the immobiliser access code in a safe place (never in the vehicle). If any key modifications become necessary (addition, cancellation or replacement of a key), you must take the confidential card together with all keys to a Citroen dealer. Changing the remote control battery Pop open the case to the keyfob to gain access to the battery: CR 1620 (3V) button cell and replace the battery. The remote control must be reinitialised after changing the battery. To do this, use the key to unlock the doors and press button A [LOCK] on the remote control twice. Saxo replacement keys, key cutting, remote keyfob battery, coded card Getting a New Key If you go to a Citroen dealer you will need: - Registration Document (V5) - Proof of identity (photocard) - Proof of address that must match address on the Registration Document - The key number (see picture below) What can I do if I don’t have a key number? You can have your Citroen dealer email Citroen to do a key search from your VIN number on the Registration Document. I was told this costs £15. Programming a New Key Once the key has been cut either using the key number or another key as a guide then the immobiliser device needs to be programmed via the ECU to recognise the transponder in the key (see picture). This is where the code on the coded card is needed to gain access to the ECU. How much does it cost? I had the key number and Citroen quoted: £34.33 for replacement key & programming (+£15 without key number) £69.50 for a replacement remote control keyfob Are there other options? Yes. Auto locksmiths claim to be able to help to replace keys, programme transponder keys, fix or replace broken keys and to help with lost keys or lockout situations. Do a Google Search. Some folks have used Timpsons with success. Pictures: 1. Transponder key with remote control keyfob 2. Transponder key slot 3. Plastic label with key number highlighted in blue; the other numbers may be for the remote control keyfob 4. Citroen coded card IF you get a key cut without a transponder, then this key will be able to open the doors, petrol cap but will not start the car. If you change the ignition barrel then the key key must be programmed into the immobiliser via the ECU. A replacement remote control keyfob can be purchased if your fob is physically broken or a plastic button is broken. The inside of the broken remote can be transplanted into the new case. Cheers

   Good guide!! I've had to get a replacement key in the past !

   1 user thanked this post: BobCm
3. picklesayrshire Frequent Poster Joined: Nov 2007 auchinleck Posts: 682 Saxo VTS (Cammed)

   #3 9th May 2009, 18:03

   £135 to have mine cut and programmed by a locksmith, but part of the charge was for travelling, ie bout 35 miles.

   1 user thanked this post: BobCm
4. Agent_Orange Frequent Poster Joined: Jun 2006 Posts: 747

   #4 9th May 2009, 18:34

   Good guide there mate.
   
   I got some mad key problems: The key don't work in boot or drivers door, but does petrol cap passenger door and ignition?!
   
   Somehow and I say somehow cos this never happens to normal people.... My Dad broke the key off in their 307 door-lock. RAC came out with new lock kit and did it all for nowt!?!?!? Nice

   1 user thanked this post: BobCm
5. alexmitcho Newbie Joined: Jul 2008 Jersey Posts: 8 Saxo VTR Phase 2 Mauritious Blue

   #5 16th May 2009, 18:56

   Quote:

   The remote control must be reinitialised after changing the battery. To do this, use the key to unlock the doors and press button A [LOCK] on the remote control twice.

   
   That just saved me from getting very annoyed haha! Spent ages trying to get the fob to work after replacing the battery, worked straight away after I "reinitialised" it.
   
   Thanks a lot mate.
6. marcusd Saxperience Post Whore Joined: Jan 2009 warrington Posts: 7551 posi blue mk2 2003 vtr

   #6 16th May 2009, 19:11

   or go to timpsons key cutters and theys cut n code your key for £35 quid. thats for the mk2 keys the kinda cross ones. cheaper than citroen
7. chinkostu Saxperience Post Whore Joined: Aug 2008 The wrong carpark Posts: 5152 Xantia 1.9TD

   #7 17th May 2009, 12:15

   when i needed a new key cutting for my punto i just went to timpsons. they cloned the transponder chip onto a new key, and then cut the key
   
   £35 it cost me, would imagine it'd work with a saxo's key aswell. of course you don't get a original key back, but who the hell cares? looks the same and does the job!
8. lfin106s2 L-plater Joined: Jun 2007 kettering Posts: 44 1.5 saxo s14a 200sx

   #8 17th May 2009, 13:15

   my remote fob doesnt work replaced battery and still doesnt work. do i just need to buy a new fob from citroen.
9. RichM Established Member Joined: Oct 2007 Plymouth Posts: 1871 Saxo VTR MK2 '01 Vauxhall Astra Sport Hatch '60

   #9 17th May 2009, 13:37

   Quote:

   Originally Posted by lfin106s2 my remote fob doesnt work replaced battery and still doesnt work. do i just need to buy a new fob from citroen.

   Did it ever work before?
10. lfin106s2 L-plater Joined: Jun 2007 kettering Posts: 44 1.5 saxo s14a 200sx

    #10 17th May 2009, 15:05

    never work when i brought the car button looks like its been solderd
11. RichM Established Member Joined: Oct 2007 Plymouth Posts: 1871 Saxo VTR MK2 '01 Vauxhall Astra Sport Hatch '60

    #11 17th May 2009, 18:34

    Quote:

    Originally Posted by lfin106s2 never work when i brought the car button looks like its been solderd

    Probably a fob thats not for the car. Have you tried doing this?
    
    The remote control must be reinitialised after changing the battery. To do this, use the key to unlock the doors and press button A [LOCK] on the remote control twice.
12. lfin106s2 L-plater Joined: Jun 2007 kettering Posts: 44 1.5 saxo s14a 200sx

    #12 17th May 2009, 18:48

    tryd that no luck
13. hazzer321 Regular Poster Joined: Jan 2009 Norfolk Posts: 375 Saxo 1.1 LX, Ford Focus 1.8 Collection

    #13 2nd June 2009, 16:49

    ok ive got all sorts of key problems,
    
    i have just bought a VTR only comes with one key which is the picture below
    
    
    what want to do is make an exact replica of that key so i have 2 keys one for me and one for my dad, where can i get this done without going to pay a fortune at a dealership.
    
    second problem:
    
    this VTR never had an Remote Fob Thingy Either, if i were to buy a second hand one off ebay would i be able to get it reprogrammed at a dealership i hear its about 40 pound. picture of the remote key below
    
    
    
    thanks
14. hazzer321 Regular Poster Joined: Jan 2009 Norfolk Posts: 375 Saxo 1.1 LX, Ford Focus 1.8 Collection

    #14 2nd June 2009, 16:50

    Standard Key
    
    
    
    Remote Key
    
    
15. sorted2 Infrequent Poster Joined: May 2009 Cromer, Norfolk Posts: 137 Citroen Saxo Mk 1 VTR

    #15 2nd June 2009, 19:24

    Anyone know the price for a blank non-transponder key and where I would get one?
16. hazzer321 Regular Poster Joined: Jan 2009 Norfolk Posts: 375 Saxo 1.1 LX, Ford Focus 1.8 Collection

    #16 2nd June 2009, 21:13

    theres a couple uncut ones on ebay m8 cost bout 10 - 15 quid
17. Toms112 Established Member Joined: Dec 2008 Wisbech/Peterborough Posts: 2218 2008 Ford Fiesta ST150

    #17 7th June 2009, 17:16

    So can I just go into timpsons with my key and they will copy the code and cut a new key?
    How long does it take?
    How much?
    Are they any good? Does it work lol
18. MathewVTR Infrequent Poster Joined: Jun 2009 Chesterfield Posts: 101 Mk2 X Reg VTR (90bhp model)

    #18 8th July 2009, 13:05

    I just bought an X Reg VTR and it didnt come with the remote key fob. I don't fancy letting Citreon rip me off so il just do without >.>
19. marcusd Saxperience Post Whore Joined: Jan 2009 warrington Posts: 7551 posi blue mk2 2003 vtr

    #19 8th July 2009, 13:13

    Quote:

    Originally Posted by Toms112 So can I just go into timpsons with my key and they will copy the code and cut a new key? How long does it take? How much? Are they any good? Does it work lol

    yeap they stick the key in a machone that copys the code to the new key, takes aboyt 5mins to code and cut and cost me 35 quid, i use the key everyday and no problems what so ever looks better than original key as its smaller.
20. gillesye Newbie Joined: Jul 2009 Ile de France Posts: 1 BIC 1.1 2002

    #20 27th July 2009, 14:31

    Quote:

    Originally Posted by Here is how to get your remote control working after changing the battery: Changing the remote control battery Pop open the case to the keyfob to gain access to the battery: CR 1620 (3V) button cell and replace the battery. The remote control must be reinitialised after changing the battery. To do this, use the key to unlock the doors and press button A [LOCK on the remote control twice.

    Hi. Everyone
    
    My remote didn't work since last week (it worked normally before)
    
    And i changed the battery, CR1620 3V for sure.
    
    I tried what mentioned here to re-initialised my clipper, and it still doesn't work
    
    Anyone succeed with this way ? Or i did sth wrong?
    
    Thx a lot.
21. BobCm Forum Section Moderator Joined: Apr 2009 Orpington Posts: 1406 My son drives a Poseidon Blue Saxo Mk2 1.6i VTR.

    #21 27th July 2009, 20:32

    Hi,
    
    I just updated the thread. You must press the lock button twice within 30 seconds of unlocking the door.
    
    So, try it again.
22. willhodsoll Newbie Joined: Jun 2009 ESSEX Posts: 5 BLACK MK1 VTR

    #22 15th August 2009, 14:52

    my key fob worked but only after a few attempts and looking like a div trying to get the right angle so i chaged the battery and tried the before mentioned door unlock and press button twice thing but it dosn't work at all now.
    
    any body got any ideas? Cheers
23. user_34700 Regular Poster Joined: Jun 2009 Torquay Posts: 411 wicked red vtr

    #23 20th August 2009, 00:16

    some times its just the contacts in the key fob bend them back out and make sure there pushed in right thats wat worked for me good guide by the way
24. redadair85 L-plater Joined: Sep 2009 bakewell Posts: 60 ford fiesta zetec, use to have vtr

    #24 9th September 2009, 19:17

    thanks alot for this guide, exactly what iv been looking for
25. afn33 L-plater Joined: Jul 2009 Durham UK Posts: 76 I did own a Saxo, however my son has it now.. Toy

    #25 19th October 2009, 22:51

    Quote:

    Originally Posted by BobC Hi, I just updated the thread. You must press the lock button twice within 30 seconds of unlocking the door. So, try it again.

    So what does one do when the car is completely de-locked as is the thing my son bought, now he has all sorts of problems because if the battery fucks up or the batteries in the remote do, the car is going to be locked and him out of it.It has a Toad alarm too so this complicates matters ..so please tell me what does one do here apart from cry I can only think of one way round this and that would be a back up key fob, so what can be done with a back up bought from fleabay can it be reprogrammed by shitron and at what cost,anyone know??
26. marcusd Saxperience Post Whore Joined: Jan 2009 warrington Posts: 7551 posi blue mk2 2003 vtr

    #26 20th October 2009, 09:18

    Quote:

    Originally Posted by afn33 So what does one do when the car is completely de-locked as is the thing my son bought, now he has all sorts of problems because if the battery fucks up or the batteries in the remote do, the car is going to be locked and him out of it.It has a Toad alarm too so this complicates matters ..so please tell me what does one do here apart from cry I can only think of one way round this and that would be a back up key fob, so what can be done with a back up bought from fleabay can it be reprogrammed by shitron and at what cost,anyone know??

    big moneys for reprogramming. thought with delocked they put a sitch hidden for just such occassions?

    1 user thanked this post: afn33
27. afn33 L-plater Joined: Jul 2009 Durham UK Posts: 76 I did own a Saxo, however my son has it now.. Toy

    #27 20th October 2009, 22:19

    Quote:

    Originally Posted by marcusd big moneys for reprogramming. thought with delocked they put a sitch hidden for just such occassions?

    These switches are hidden, usually so I am told behind the mirror, none on this car though, could this switch be elsewhere mate if so where is the common place for them..how much to re- programme the reserve fob..?
28. batespeed Newbie Joined: Oct 2009 Posts: 6

    #28 31st October 2009, 15:37

    i bought a saxo forte 1.1 02 reg which has been off the road for over a year,only got one standard key with it , and no key fob/plipper. should it have one ? ive put a new battery on the car ,and fresh fuel, i can hear the fuel pump priming when i put the ignition on and it cranks over ok, but the immobiliser light (square box and key symbol) stays on so it wont go. whats my options? does it have to go to citroen to be reprogramed ?, or should i try a new transponder ? when i switch the ignition off it makes a series of three double beeps if this helps,
    
    any way to bypass the immobiliser altogether ?
    
    thanks in advance for any help...........................
29. marcusd Saxperience Post Whore Joined: Jan 2009 warrington Posts: 7551 posi blue mk2 2003 vtr

    #29 31st October 2009, 17:29

    Quote:

    Originally Posted by afn33 These switches are hidden, usually so I am told behind the mirror, none on this car though, could this switch be elsewhere mate if so where is the common place for them..how much to re- programme the reserve fob..?

    well for a new fob and to be reprogrammed your looking poss £200+ i reackon citroen will say it'l be a days labour and will want the car and blah blah. prob take em 2 mins top but charge the earth.
    may be worth asking a few car locksmiths see what they would charge?
30. susiesaxo Newbie Joined: Dec 2009 Posts: 1

    #30 1st December 2009, 19:33

    I have just the same problem with the remote transponder. It used to work then became intermittent. I changed the battery now it doesnt work. i have tried re programming by pressing the lock button twice. Any more ideas?
31. marcusd Saxperience Post Whore Joined: Jan 2009 warrington Posts: 7551 posi blue mk2 2003 vtr

    #31 4th March 2010, 13:04

    well chuffed as fob packed up yesturday, took it to shitroen who wanted £85 yes £85 to look at it to tell me it didn;t work!!!!!!!
    went to my local car stereo alram fitters who also fix up stereos who charged me £35 to fix my fob what a bargain. problom with mine was it stop transmitting a signal so worth a few phone calls if yours has packed up
32. fisherposh Frequent Poster Joined: May 2008 Peterborough Posts: 513 VTS

    #32 10th March 2010, 23:21

    .........
33. ripstu Newbie Joined: Feb 2009 Posts: 20 2001 saxo vtr write off(:() 2001 saxo vts

    #33 24th June 2010, 22:20

    citreon are supplying me a new fob programmed for 85 pound retail, and they said they would do me a trade price on it, how good are the original citreon alar/immobilisers, is it worth it or should i buy and fit a clifford or viper etc.....
    
    thanks in advance
34. green_vtr_89 Newbie Joined: Aug 2010 Posts: 25

    #34 8th August 2010, 11:35

    hey guys i just had my car fob go yesterday i went through the following steps showd on here but i have a slight problem the preivious owner has had the door locks filled over so i cant do that with the key my car is unlockable atm
    is there any other way i can get the fob to work??
    
    cheers
35. MattWild L-plater Joined: May 2010 Posts: 69

    #35 8th August 2010, 13:58

    I want a second fob - have 2 keys and one fob. Do I have to pay Citron £70 for this joy or is there a way around it? Both keys have the immobilizer chip in and work fine.
36. jonesy9 Established Member Joined: Feb 2009 Shropshire Posts: 1857 JP4 Saxo, Milano CTR

    #36 11th September 2010, 18:26

    great guide, just changed battery over with no probs
37. Danherring Infrequent Poster Joined: Sep 2010 Suffolk Posts: 114 MK2 VTR.

    #37 15th September 2010, 22:12

    BobCm
    
    Nice guide on the key fob. going to give mine ago tomorrow and try and ''reinitialise'' it. Hope fully it works. Many thanks.
    
    dan.
38. paulthebow Newbie Joined: Jan 2011 Posts: 1

    #38 6th January 2011, 20:16

    Quick question my girlfriend lost the keys to her saxo she has the coded card an what looks like the sticker off the key tag (has the barcode same amount of letters an numbers as the one in the pic ) stuck on the coded card im wondering if i can get away with getting the key cut an coded then go start the car as it stuck outside her work place or will they need the car at the garage ?? cheers paul
39. Westgarth Established Member Joined: Jan 2011 Scarborough Posts: 1420 Vauxhall Corsa SXI+ Saxo Furio 1.4

    #39 1st March 2011, 20:10

    Am looking to get a new key fob as my buttons on mine atm are about to fall out is it easy enought to just swop the front case on it or change the full thing? will i have to get it reprogrammed? thanks
40. tomw1123 Infrequent Poster Joined: May 2011 St Austell, Cornwall Posts: 179 Hyosung GT125R

    #40 15th May 2011, 17:45

    Hi all, the button on the remote fob for my saxo vts has broke, but the plastic has broke and the actual button on the chip has broke too. So basically i need a new fob soo is it possible to buy a fob from a different saxo and programme it to work on my car?
41. ricardio123 Newbie Joined: Aug 2011 bucks Posts: 13 Citroën saxo furio

    #41 7th September 2011, 13:10

    bought the case off ebay along with batterys for £5.50 altogether with postage
    
    came in 2 days... if anyone wants to know the seller just shout me
42. gaz2002 L-plater Joined: Sep 2011 Posts: 86

    #42 17th September 2011, 18:24

    hi all
    
    just bought a 1999 vtr, should it have rcl? only got 1 key which i think is the spare. can i buy a key/fob on ebay and programme it myself to lock/unlock my doors??
    
    thanks
43. marcusd Saxperience Post Whore Joined: Jan 2009 warrington Posts: 7551 posi blue mk2 2003 vtr

    #43 18th September 2011, 16:56

    Quote:

    Originally Posted by gaz2002 hi all just bought a 1999 vtr, should it have rcl? only got 1 key which i think is the spare. can i buy a key/fob on ebay and programme it myself to lock/unlock my doors?? thanks

    try reading mate NO U CAN'T needs to be programmed by citroen or new alarm. otherwise any idiot could pop along to your car hold down the unlock button and get into your car!!!
44. TechnoBoy1 Infrequent Poster Joined: Jul 2011 Lanarkshire Posts: 142 Mk2 Citroen Saxo X 1.1

    #44 19th September 2011, 17:47

    Great guide mate thanks
45. gaz2002 L-plater Joined: Sep 2011 Posts: 86

    #45 20th September 2011, 17:55

    Quote:

    Originally Posted by marcusd try reading mate NO U CAN'T needs to be programmed by citroen or new alarm. otherwise any idiot could pop along to your car hold down the unlock button and get into your car!!!

    erm i have, 'mate'. and not any idiots key is gunna fit is it?? only my key will fit my car. iv been incontact with some1 on ebay who says i can programme it myself to unlock my car aslong as i get it cut same as mine
46. Sathard Newbie Joined: May 2012 France Posts: 2 Citroen Saxo 1.5D 2002 Renault Espace 2 2.1TD 1992

    #46 7th May 2012, 11:03

    Hello,
    
    Does anybody know the reference of the chip contained in those keys ?
    (I serched this reference on internet and I found ID T5, but I'm not sure ...)
    The photo doesn't match with what I found ...
47. Sathard Newbie Joined: May 2012 France Posts: 2 Citroen Saxo 1.5D 2002 Renault Espace 2 2.1TD 1992

    #47 7th May 2012, 11:14

    Quote:

    Originally Posted by tomw1123 Hi all, the button on the remote fob for my saxo vts has broke, but the plastic has broke and the actual button on the chip has broke too. So basically i need a new fob soo is it possible to buy a fob from a different saxo and programme it to work on my car?

    I think it is possible ... with the good tool !
    It was my problem, without the broken button ...
    I found a blank "plip" with key on ebay for 7€.
    I made engrave the key by a locksmith for 5€.
    Now, I need a transponder chip to make my key recognised (I bought the Lexia 3 system ...).
48. jacksonlee Newbie Joined: Jun 2016 Posts: 1

    #48 1st June 2016, 09:32

    Most dealerships will not make a spare key unless the car is actually at the dealership.So you need to any good Locksmith ,they can resolve your problem in a magnificent way.
49. Brutus-1965 Newbie Joined: Nov 2016 Posts: 23 Citroen Saxo 1.5d (2003) - current Citroen Saxo 1

    #49 6th December 2016, 12:06

    Just had my key cloned at Timpsons. I'm sure he said it was a T5 which made it cheaper at just £40.