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.
  NB: As of 2009, Larners locksmiths in Mitcham (VIC) have closed Mitcham store, now only mobile and at Seymour.
  

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.