A couple of days ago, this happened.
We figured it was just the battery. We did a jump start, and the car started, and things were great again.
But then, yesterday, this happened.
Apparently, it was not the battery. Nor was it the starter. The folks at Geno’s, Chestertown’s finest garage, told us that the problem had something to do with the key. It is a fancy kind of key that sends a signal instead of fitting into a lock.
So today, August and I drove to the VW dealer in Dover.
And waited and waited while the mechanics checked out our car.
Apparently, the mechanism that receives the signal from they key is not working properly and needs replacing to the tune of $400. Apparently, once we have a new mechanism, we need new keys, to the tune of $500. And, apparently, there are labor costs involved, to the tune of $1,100 total.
To fix a key.
I must take a moment to breathe deliberately, reminding myself of all the good things in my life.
I really loved that fancy key until it malfunctioned. Now I find myself nostalgic for the good old days when a key was a key and a trip to get a key replaced set you back a couple of bucks.
At least August got a free balloon.
Big bummer.
I long for those keys too.
You mean a “no added charge balloon” I think. Ugh.
It has gotten even more ridiculous – apparently there are NO AVAILABLE REPLACEMENT IGNITIONS IN THE ENTIRE UNITED STATES so they are WAITING FOR ONE TO BE MANUFACTURED. I find this hard to believe. I’m going to have to call and throw down today. Matthew’s too soft on the offensive on these things. Oy!
Though, the kids were totally bought by the free balloon. I will not be so easily swayed!!
Car keys are overrated. In the late 80’s I had a ’70 Plymouth Valiant, the ugliest car ever made in America until the Pontiac Aztek. It’s worn key could be removed w/ the engine still running, handy in VT winters when you ventured someplace you felt compelled to lock the car but wanted to keep the heater going.