D4 Smart Key key blade - should it be blank or cut?

[twr7cx]

The new (to us) MY12 D4 TDV6 has three keys - one of which looks original and has taken a beating and two which are replacements (clearly replacements as they're Range Rover branded). All work to start and run the car.

The two new keys have key blades under the metal side shell, the old one doesn't. But both the key blades are blank and uncut. Is this right? I would have thought it should be a special cut to match the car so not everyone can easily gain access...

Looking around the car body it seems it's the passenger side front door that the key goes in underneath. I assume this is for when the Smart Key battery is flat.

Wonder what my chances is of getting a replacement key blade precut from the local LR dealer...? Once I have that I'm sure a local independent lock smith can cut the other two blank key blades to match.

148917

[Cambo_oldjaguar]

LR dealer can sell you a pre-cut key blade from the UK, actually that's all they can do because the key code is not available for someone to cut a blade locally.

But once you have one original blade, then any half-decent locksmith could cut the other two for you.

You just need to provide them the VIN, and proof of ownership.

[eddy]

Those 'Range Rover' key blanks look like the one I bought on ebay.If it is made of alloy it will probably melt when being cut, you will have to change it for a Ford blank HU101.

[twr7cx]

Thanks for the above - both directions to obtaining a replacement and info on the aftermarket alloy keys.

Ordered the replacement at the local deal (Tilfords) - $140.00 via the UK. Two week wait for it to arrive. He commented that the computer system states the key is blank in it's description but also has it as being VIN specific and has to be ordered in custom, so he says it will arrive cut...

[twr7cx]

Those 'Range Rover' key blanks look like the one I bought on ebay.If it is made of alloy it will probably melt when being cut, you will have to change it for a Ford blank HU101.

Received the replacement Genuine Land Rover key, special order for my VIN ex UK - $140.00 from the local dealer. It is alloy.

Took it along with the two blank blades, which are steel, to a locksmith in town. He cut them for $80.00 for the pair. He said they were a pain to cut and to check them but got home and tested and they work fine.