Don't buy a factory keyless entry remote from the dealership.

[4X4CHICHI]

I misplaced my keyless entry transmitter a couple of weeks ago. I looked everywhere to no avail, so I decided to purchase a new one. I checked the dealer and found that a new one cost $83.00 (OUCH!!!). So I went to my old steady "Ebay". Most remotes start at $6.00 and have a "buy it now" option at about $15.00. I happened to find one for $5.99 plus $1.25 for shipping. $7.24, I saved $75.76!!! Needless to say i was excited. The remotes come unprogrammed, so i went to the dealer to get it programmed. He handed me a page and a half of instructions, for free. It took me about 10 to 15 minutes to program it and I was back in business. I'm going to try to find the web page for these instructions, if not i will manually type them out. Sorry this post is so long, but I felt compelled to spread the word.

[4X4CHICHI]

I just found out that millster has this page in one of his other threads http://www.novaresource.org/vibe/add_remote.jpg

[ColonelPanic]

I seem to have misplaced a set of keys to my Vibe as well. I'm bad about misplacing my keys, but usually can find them - this time, no such luck. I never have purchased anything from ebay before, any tips on purchasing one? I see a few on there now. Would prefer to just do the "buy it now" thing.

[Reynoma]

Quote, originally posted by ColonelPanic »I never have purchased anything from ebay before, any tips on purchasing one? I see a few on there now. Would prefer to just do the "buy it now" thing.For any first time ebayer, I would say that you should try bidding first (not do the "buy it now" thing). See how an auction works...bidding, being outbid, bidding again, etc. just to experience it. Just make sure you keep your bidding low...don't get caught up in the action. Bidding on something low cost (like $15) is a good place to start. After you see it isn't so bad, you will start looking on ebay for stuff before you look anywhere else. Also, before you start bidding, sign up for a paypal account. It takes a little while to get the whole thing finalized, but it is worth having for the ebay purchase.Just my 2cents.

[ragingfish]

I've learned the thing about ebay is, bid sniping is too prevalent.Basically -- people will go into an auction in the last 3-4 minutes and do last-minute bidding to get the highest bid, and because it's so close to the end, it's unlikely anyone else will have a chance to bid.If I really want something, I don't bother bidding until the last 5 mins of an auction. But as said above, don't get caught up in the action. Don't go in and bid 60 bucks if you're not willing to spend more than 30. You're contracted to buy the item if you win, so no buyer's remorse here.

[Jahntassa]

Agreed. Bid ONLY as high as you want, but don't bid your high number right away..it creates small bidwars if you have an item that other people want. If you're really desperate for that item, and you know the BIN (Buy It Now) amount is within what you're willing to get, go ahead and do that. There's always the possibility the auction price will be cheaper, but if it's something you REALLY want or need, that's the definite way to get it.

[ArcsVibe]

Actually I have two that I never used! If only I knew you were looking I would have sold you mine. Glad you found them on Ebay.PS If anyone is looking or needs one IM me

[ColonelPanic]

Undoubtedly, it could be considered a bonehead move on my part, but I didn't go the ebay route for the remote replacement. I just ordered one from GM Parts Direct. I could have bought three of four remotes for the price I paid (45+shipping.) But then again, I paid a bit less than half of what the dealer quoted for the thing...I noticed the programming instructions here were for vehicles equipped with an alarm, and wondered if that procedure would work for my car without the alarm.... Worked like a charm. (Dealer wanted $25 for that cheesy reprogramming procedure!)As particular as I am, I just had to have a replacement factory-style key with the Pontiac logo. Got screwed on that one pretty well, $16 for the key and $5 for "labor." The dealer made a killing off me today, that's for sure. That's alright though, you only live once. lol

[Jahntassa]

Quote, originally posted by ColonelPanic » (Dealer wanted $25 for that cheesy reprogramming procedure!)Really? They just gave it to me when they had to program the alarms as I was about to drive off the lot with mine...

[Fialchar]

I think I have the second set from my Vibe. If anyone else needs one I'll sell it for the shipping cost.

[Sputnik]

Boyfriend lost his set of keys. Glad there are posts like this online so I can get a new one from Ebay and reprogram it!!

[Sputnik]

I may take you up on that. But it wouldn't be until after we move. Don't want it to get lost in the mail. Thanks!