[FelineFreddie]

A key code might not be necessary on push-button start vehicles, since the fobs have to be program/mated to the ignition/security modules. On the traditional physical insert-the-key ignitions, the key codes were an instruction on how the key blank should be cut…or, that’s the way it used to be.

It makes sense that a new fob would be tied to the VIN in a push-button start vehicle. Over a decade ago, I bought a 3rd fob for my BMW 3-Series, and the dealership needed the VIN to order the fob, and didn’t need any sort of key code. When it arrived, the dealership had to program/mate it to the vehicle, but the physical key inside the fob (emergency key) came pre-cut when the fob was shipped to the dealership parts dept,

Now, that may not be how the process actually works, but I suspect that’s the case.

 

[FelineFreddie]

Looking at the situation logically, think about how many vehicles are resold and the keys supplied without the metal key tag… I’d guess 95%+. Surely, more than a few owners of these used vehicles (new to them) have, for one reason or another, purchased new keys/key fobs and had them cut/programmed without the key code.

Thats why I suspect all the pertinent key/key fob information is tied to the VIN.