Vauxhall Astra F (1991 - 1998) - 1998 Diesel - Key fob programing

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Thu 14 Aug 2008 20:51
1998 Diesel - Key fob programing - DarrenR
Hi, I'm having a bit of a problem! changed the battery in my key fob and now the car won't start, well its starts for about 3 seconds then cuts out, I was told it was a key fob issue so managed to get another one but I still have the same problem, I was then advised that I have to program the key fob, not sure how to do this, I have R reg diesel astra, can anyone help please, going a little mad here. thank you in advance, Darren

Edited by Dynamic Dave on 14/08/2008 at 21:48

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Thu 14 Aug 2008 21:41
Please help, Astra Key fob programing - SpamCan61 {P}
The key programming routine will be somwhere in the manual, on most of my vauxhalls you turn the key until the ingition is on whilst pressing the unlock button on the keyfob for about 5 seconds, until the central locking locks and unlocks itself.

Personally I don't think this is a key fob issue, otherwise it wouldn't start at all and would just flash the EML/MIL rapidly when cranking.
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Thu 14 Aug 2008 21:44
1998 Diesel - Astra Key fob programing - Dynamic Dave
Inside your fob is an immobiliser chip. I suspect it fell out when you changed the battery - easily done. The car will still start regardless of if a battery is in the fob or not - it won't however if the chip is missing. The battery is only required for the light / central locking (depending on what type of fob you have). Replacing the fob won't help unless you have the transponder chip in that fob programmed to your car - which has to be done either by Vauxhall or a competent locksmith with the necessary equipment.

Start by looking for the chip at the location you changed the battery. It's approx 10x3x2mm in size.

Edited by Dynamic Dave on 14/08/2008 at 21:49

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