With no spare keys for my 1999 Astra diesel estate I was assured by a "key expert" that he could provide me with a duplicate. He cut a chipped key that fits the door lock and the ignition and the engine will run but only for a few seconds before cutting out. Obviously the key is not programmed correctly and my mechanic pal advised me that placing the key into the door entry lock and turning key in a precise sequence of movements will program the key to the car. Do you know that sequence or any other way to activate this smart key? Please. For the avoidance of doubt this is not a remote key fob or central locking vehicle. Thanks

Merlin Scarborough, December 2009

There is no way of manually programming the immobiliser chip in the key with the cars immobiliser unit.
It has to be done using dealer level diagnostics such as tech 2, vaux-com etc. Many independent garages have this equipment, and will usually be cheaper, but, as you are finding out, you get what you pay for.
You will also need the immo code, which is on your Car Pass card. If you dont have the card you can get a new one from a Vauxhall dealer for about £20/£25.
The "key in ignition, turn ignition on, press button" routine is just to re-sync the remote locking, nothing to do with the immo. Wouldn't be much of a security system if it did.

fred, December 2009