VW Key Code HV

[Windisch]

G'day folks. I have a 1973 VW beetle that came with two keys (but only one of which is an ignition key). I'd like to have a new ignition key made and I don't want to hassle removing the ignition switch to view the number on it. However, I was somewhat chagrined to learn that there are a number of different VW key codes (even for various beetles). So I searched around on line and by visually comparing the various blanks to my own key, I discovered that my ignition key is an HV key.

Apparently the previous owner of my standard 73 bug had a Mexican beetle ignition switch installed in it, hence the HV key blank needed. See pictures of my bug's key below.

For some odd reason the 'HV' key blank seems to me in somewhat short supply and those that I've been able to find on-line are all damnably expensive (like $27 or more each!) and usually from Europe. Help!

Does anyone have a US VW dealer source that sells the HV key code blank so that I can order a few spares!? Thanks.

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1973 Standard Beetle, 1974 VW/Porsche 914-4, 1.8 liter
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Der Volkswagen ist ein Ausdruck der deutschen Kultur der Allrad Art ...

[The only irrefutable evidence we have that intelligent life truly exists elsewhere in the Universe is the fact that so far it has NOT contacted humanity...]

[irvanm]

I understand you want a "real" VW key but in the interest of just having a spare in case you lose the only one you have i got one made at Westlake Hardware for $3.00.

[Windisch]

Well, that's certainly reasonable enuff. Yet me have a postal address and I'll send you the $. It would be good to have a back-up until I can find a few 'real' VW keys. Thanks, Irvanm! [Or I can PAYPAL it to you, if you wish.]
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1973 Standard Beetle, 1974 VW/Porsche 914-4, 1.8 liter
----------------------
Der Volkswagen ist ein Ausdruck der deutschen Kultur der Allrad Art ...

[The only irrefutable evidence we have that intelligent life truly exists elsewhere in the Universe is the fact that so far it has NOT contacted humanity...]

[VW_Buggsy]

If you want great key services I'd talk to Justin Baughman (SteelersBus or [email protected]). OR Gabriel Garcia (gabvwkey or [email protected]).

I personally used Justin (several years ago) when I wanted to get everything keyed alike on my 74 and get some extra keys in the process. Literally everything used a different key on my car. I think I sent him the door locks, deck lid latch, and ignition key and he keyed everything to the ignition key for me so they all match. IIRC I didn't have to remove the ignition switch to get the code, just sent him the key. Prices were very reasonable for a master tradesman.

Now I have one key that does everything on the car (A first in my VW history) and spares.

It'll take a little time shipping the door handles and such back and forth but the result of not having to hunt for the right key or have a janitor's keyring is one of those little things in life that is just grand.

Gabe I only know by reputation, and the fact that he's also been on this forum forever, but I get the impression he's also excellent.

Buggsy

[VW_Buggsy]

Oh I forgot to mention I'd make sure they know about the HV key blank issue when you contact them to make sure they have that blank and can deal with them. One or the other or both probably can.

[Windisch]

Thanks for that information, Buggsy. I'll plumb that resource (Justin). Most helpful.
_________________
1973 Standard Beetle, 1974 VW/Porsche 914-4, 1.8 liter
----------------------
Der Volkswagen ist ein Ausdruck der deutschen Kultur der Allrad Art ...

[The only irrefutable evidence we have that intelligent life truly exists elsewhere in the Universe is the fact that so far it has NOT contacted humanity...]