Okay, so there are a few threads about replacement keys and remotes for B5s, but I still haven't found a thread that addresses all of the things to look for when trying to find a replacement remote.

I have one remote and key...nothing else. If ever I lose it, I'm screwed. So, I want to have another key and remote with my wife or at home...maybe both.

I've already ordered a couple of HAA key blanks (just the blades) from ebay to have cut by a local locksmith.

But I'm still looking for a new remote without paying $90 for it at the stealership.

1.) When looking for a replacement remote on ebay, is it imperative that the FCC ID on the new remote be the exact numbers on the original remote?

(Original Remote: MZ2 410 819 6 4)
(Potential Replacement Remote: MZ2 410 819 6 3)

2.) Do B5 remotes/keys have immobilizer chips in them? If so, does the dealer have to program it in order to start the car with that key?

3.) What's this "virgin security chip" I'm reading about? One member said "Only hitch is to be sure that the keys have virgin security chips inside so that they can be adapted to your car."

4.) I've read where other guys on here who have a two button remote like me, have gotten three button remotes on ebay. Some have programmed the third button (trunk release) to do another function, and some haven't. I don't care to do that, but I wondered if the answer to question 1 is "yes", how did they do this? All of the remotes I find on ebay are three button and aren't the same FCC ID as my original remote.

Maybe I'm just an idiot and don't get it. Perhaps I'm making this entirely more difficult than it should be, but I keep reading conflicting advice on this subject.

Can someone shed a little light on this?

Thanks...

 

Look at the sticker on the rear wing window. Match the code on it to the remote that you're buying. I bought a 2 button from a fellow member and it works fine.

 

That's one of the points I'm trying to make. Is it IMPERATIVE that the numbers match up?

The only two button remotes I can find are just about as ratty as mine is...

 

Nobody???