Record what is physically included
Ask for a photograph of all supplied keys together with the vehicle handover record. Give each key a simple identifier so later results can be attributed correctly. Include any separate access items or emergency components that the applicable vehicle instructions require. Do not assume a universal key quantity or key type across original CS55 and PLUS offers.
For a new car, compare the supplied items with the agreed delivery list. For a used car, ask whether any key has been lost, replaced or damaged and whether supporting work records exist. A missing item should be visible in the quotation before you compare prices. The used-car inspection guide connects this check with the overall acceptance decision.
Demonstrate each key on its own
Have an authorised operator demonstrate each supplied key separately, following the instructions for that vehicle. Record applicable locking, unlocking and starting functions under safe conditions. Keep other keys out of the test as directed by the service provider so a working key does not conceal a failure in the one being assessed.
Do not conclude that a remote button failure means the vehicle cannot be started, or that starting proves every remote function works. Record the actual observation. Battery condition, physical damage and configuration may require professional investigation. If the result is inconsistent, leave it unresolved until the responsible technician explains and corrects the issue.
Identify the replacement before accepting a price
Send the VIN and relevant key-system details to an authorised service provider or qualified automotive locksmith. The provider should establish the compatible part and work required. A visually similar housing or matching button count is not sufficient evidence of compatibility. Keep sensitive security information within an agreed business channel rather than attaching it to public sales material.
Ask whether the quotation covers the necessary physical item, any applicable cutting, setup and final testing. Confirm whether the vehicle and all existing keys must be present and how long the service is expected to take. This article is a purchasing checklist, not an instruction for bypassing security or programming access without ownership authorisation.
Resolve lost-key history before handover
Where a seller reports a lost or unaccounted-for key, ask the qualified provider what measures are appropriate for the actual system and ownership situation. Obtain a written scope and completion record for any agreed work. Do not promise that replacing one key automatically addresses every previous access risk or account-based access arrangement.
The service-history guide provides a place to retain replacement invoices and dates. Separate the fact that a replacement was supplied from the question of what was done about the missing item. If the seller cannot document the work, explain that gap to the purchasing decision-maker and agree how it will be resolved before release.
Budget for completion and retesting
Compare a fully completed replacement service with the cost of receiving an unfinished component. Include workshop labour, necessary setup, transport to the provider where relevant and the final demonstration. A cheap key housing should not be compared directly with a verified working spare. Ask how the provider handles a supplied part that turns out to be unsuitable.
Use the maintenance and parts budget to separate a firm quotation from an allowance. Keep the key issue as an open preparation task until the result is demonstrated. If a dealer batch contains several cars, retain individual key counts and completion records rather than assuming the same service and price apply to every VIN.
Close the delivery record with the buyer
At handover, reconcile the key identifiers, working functions and any agreed limitation. Demonstrate the supplied items to the recipient and provide the applicable operating instructions. Do not publish security codes, private credentials or ownership documents in a listing. The handover record should make clear what the buyer receives without exposing information that is unnecessary for the transaction.
If the vehicle is substituted after inspection, repeat the key checks for the replacement car. If a new key is added after the first demonstration, update the record and test the completed set as instructed. A precise included-items list prevents a small-looking omission from becoming an unresolved customer support problem after delivery.
Record working keys and supplied quantities in the vehicle purchase schedule alongside other actual inclusions, keeping planned replacement separate from completed delivery.
