Recently purchased a 11 Vantage V8 and it only came with one Key. Was wondering if we purchased another one of eBay is the dealer the only one who can program it?

 

The problem with many discount (and non discount) used keys is without the 'code' they cannot be programmed and pretty worthless. Also the USA Vantage and the DB9's are different key frequencies and not interchangeable. I searched for weeks and found one at $1,000 new. Some have no return policy on E-Bay, so be very careful.

 

Thanks, I found this key on eBay, and all the numbers match mine even though it says its from a DB9.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/175215159253
Too risky? Is it just better to pay a ton at the dealership?

 

I'd look around - it has to be the 315mHZ version of the Key and make sure it comes with the code to program it - you will still need to pay the Aston Dealer to program the car.

I saved a little ($1K for the key) but spent a ton of searching. Not sure I came out ahead. Aston Martin Bits have keys for about $950USD

 

Thanks, so you're saying the dealership charges around $1,000 for the key? Or did I misunderstand?

 

No, the dealerships are likely a bit more. I don't know current pricing, but I believe they were something like $1200 to $1400 at dealerships when I looked.

 

just got two new keys for my '52 MG TD. about $7.50 each.

at about the same time. the 'fob' for my vantage broke. i simply removed it from my key chain and am flying blind with just the key...which is fine by me, seeing as i can lock/unlock and start the car without it. i rarely used the "fob" part of the key "assembly" (ha) anyway.

 

I've talked to me local dealer about doing an AMOC group buy on 2nd key's. If I could get 10 local owners to all buy a key, he'd do terrific pricing on them. Not sure how much lower they can go on them.

I plan to bring this up on our next pub night (I think this Wednesday).

 

The keys on eBay typically do not come with the original key code. Your local dealer can not program all functions without the original key code. Be sure to ask for the code. It is different for each key. Dave 2014 Vantage Roadster

 

Is that the emergency key you're referring to? Did not get one of those with our Aston either, unless its hidden somewhere

 

no it's a regular key. i received two keys with my car. each key had a fob tethered to it with a leather strap. https://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl...MygLegUIARDLAg

the part on the right is what i'm referring to as the "key" and the part on the left is the "fob". the key is all i need to open/close the doors and start the car. the "fob" is, in my world, optional, a luxury that i didn't really use nor need. in fact, i have broken one of mine and separated it from the key. it sits in a dish near the front door, and will remain there for a while until i ages properly and then i will throw it out. that could range from a week to the better part of a decade.

it's my understanding that they (the "fob") cost a pretty penny AND need to be programmed. so it will not be replaced. besides, i still own one that works. the trouble is that the garage where my car is kept needs to have a key at all times in case they need to move the car for some reason, and figured they can make better use of a "fob" than me. consequently, they have the key/fob monstrosity and i don't really have access to a "fob" at all. not to worry, i'm getting along quite nicely with just the key. ...it's complicated...

 

Guys,

The 2011 Vantage does not have a key fob and key. It is helpful to list the year of the Aston you are discussing. The 2011 came with a Swarovski crystal key and a black plastic key. I believe this type of key became standard in 2009. These are both electronic keys, no metal key blade of any sort. They have buttons for locking and unlocking your Aston. The entire key is inserted into the dash as the start button. The key stays in the dash to keep the engine running. The engine stops when the key is removed. It is a version of the Volvo ignition system. There is also a traditional "key" that only opens the car at the drivers door, I believe. My Vantage did not have the metal door only key.

A new Swarovski key will cost about $1,600 to $2,000 at your dealer. The black plastic key with all the same function is about $1,000 to $1,200. My dealership charges an additional $180.00 for programming. Used keys without the programming code are sold on eBay, but your will be stuck, as these keys can not be fully programmed. There are a few seller with new programable AM keys, but beware of scams. If you get or have a Swarovski key be sure to keep it in a protective case ($200 from Aston Martin) as the crystal is easily damaged.

Good luck with your key search.

Dave