Modern Vespa

What is the red brown Master key for exactly? I have received different answers from people and blank stares.

The red key is used to reprogram your engine to accept blue keys. Occasionally, the engine will "forget" the immobilizer codes contained in your blue keys. In that scenario, only the red key will start the engine and allow you to "teach" the engine to read the blue keys again. Also, if you lose all your blue keys, only the red key can be used to program new blue keys.

Without it, you need to completely replace the ignition computer if it forgets the keys.

I was trying to explain this to my boyfriend the other day, but didn't know the real details. Thanks for posting this! Now I sound like I know what I'm talking about, lol.

Incidentally that is exactly how most cars work today, you need at least one of the original keys to program any new ones to be able to start the car.

Thanks for the info. Would it be ok to use the red key sometimes instead of the blue key??

Mechanically its ok to use it, it works. But if you lose it while you are out you are pretty well screwed. Note the previous remark, without the red key, if you lose the blue ones you must replace the ignition system and that is BIG BUCKS!

Put your red key someplace safe and protect it with your life.

Anyone have any idea how much the new parts (not install labor) would cost if you had to replace the ignition system?

Or, how about a cheaper work around?? I might be helping a buddy with a project is why I ask.

Ted

Last time I saw a LX ignition replaced it ran around $800.00.

Ouch!

I paid around 270.00 for an ET4 CDI and new key cylinders. Did the install myself.