Subject: | Replacement of Keys, Key Numbers and/or Security Chips |
Models: | 2002 and Prior Passenger Cars and Trucks |
General Motors has received reports from dealers and law enforcement officials in various parts of the country regarding a new trend in auto theft.
The current mode of operation is for a person (thief) to do the following:
In some instances they have presented hand-written registration forms as proof of ownership.
Cutting of replacement keys is serious business. General Motors Policies and Procedures Manual, Section 3.2.5 (3.1.6 in Canada), Replacement of Key Numbers & Security Chips, provides the following guidelines: "For security and protection against auto theft, dealer should verify vehicle ownership before providing replacement keys, key numbers and/or security chips. Verification should include positive identification of requester and verification of vehicle ownership through registration."
Each dealership should (if they are in the business of cutting keys for walk-in, phone, fax, or other requesters) make a permanent file, by VIN, of all key requests. Copies of the following documents should remain in each file:
• | Government-issued picture ID (for example, a driver's license) |
• | Registration or other proof of ownership Registration should have normal markings from the state/province which issued the registration and possibly the receipt for payment recorded as well. Since each state/province will be different, you will need to set up guidelines for your dealership based on the current registration laws and or policies of your state/province. We know of no law enforcement agency or state/province vehicle registration office which will accept a hand-written registration document. |
• | Copy of the paid customer receipt which has the name of the employee who cut and sold the key to the customer |
• | When vehicle ownership cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, DO NOT provide the keys. Refer the customer to the selling dealer or GM Roadside Assistance. |
Important:
• | When a dealership calls the TRACS 2000 voice response system (Vintage Group in Canada) for key codes, the dealer code is recorded by VIN, in a permanent electronic file. |
• | Cutting keys for anyone other than the registered vehicle owner may result in the dealership and/or employee being charged with aiding and abetting in grand theft auto and determined to be liable, in the event the vehicle is subsequently stolen from another dealership or customer. |
Dealers may wish to designate one specific, trusted employee as the person to handle all key requests.