DeLorean Keys and Key Codes

All DeLoreans use the same ignition key - part number 109100 - reproduction molded head key blanks are available from all the full-service vendors for about $13 each. The ignition key is the same key that is used on the locking gas cap (if fitted to your car) and the locking compartment behind the driver's seat. The DeLorean glove box was never fitted with a lock from the factory.

If possible, try and have the key cut from the key code, you may have to do some research to find both the code and a locksmith in your area who can cut from the code. On VIN's LATER than 4200, the key code will probably be written underneath the drivers side headliner. It will be a 4 digit number starting with a seven, and possibly prefixed with a "K", as in "K7093". If your car is VIN4201 or higher, your ignition key should also match your doors. If your car doesn't have anything written under the door headliners, contact DMC (Texas) at www.delorean.com, as we have a incomplete list of VIN and keycodes and may be able help. If you cannot locate a key code for your car, but have an existing copy, we can usually decode it from a good, closeup photo of it. In the unhappy event that you have lost your keys, and do not have or cannot get the code for your car, a trip to a locksmith is definitely in your future.

Two different style of door locks were used on the DeLorean. They can be identified by their exterior appearance. Early style locks are all black in appearance, and the later style locks are have a black ring around the center silver circle where the key is inserted. These later style locks use the 109100 ignition key described above, hence the description "one-key" system. If it does not work in your ignition, odds are that your door locks were changed at some point and were not keyed to match your ignition. They can be re-keyed to match your ignition by a competent locksmith. If you are unable to locate a locksmith to do this, contact your nearest full-service vendor. They usually have a locksmith they deal with and can arrange to have the work done for you.

If you have the early style (two key, one for doors and a different one for the ignition) locks, your original door key contained a little lightbulb and battery. There are no more known stocks of ORIGINAL key blanks for these locks, though generic key blanks (Curtis Industries BL-1 or Ilco X169) can also be used. A reproduction of this illuminated key has been produced, but with a 109100 blank, and will only work in later style door locks, ignitions, cubby boxes and locking as caps. This can be found under part number 106245 from full-service vendors and deloreankeys.com for about $30.

Again, if possible, try and have the key cut from the key code, you may have to do some research to find both the code and a locksmith in your area who can cut from the code. On VIN's PRIOR to 4200, the key code will probably be written underneath the drivers side headliner. It will be a 4 digit number starting with a three or five, and possibly prefixed with the letters "WR", as in "WR5004". THIS IS NOT THE CODE FOR YOUR IGNITION. Instances of the key code for the ignition being written under the headliners of a pre-4201 VIN are few and far between. If your car doesn't have anything written under the door headliners, submit a support ticket as we have a incomplete list of VIN and keycodes and may have one for your car. If you cannot locate a key code for your car, you will have to employ the services of a locksmith to get anything other than a "copy" of your existing key. There are also known instances where the locks were changed on a car after it left factory, meaning that the code written under the headliners will no longer be correct.

In the unhappy event that you have lost your keys, and do not have or cannot get the code for your car, a trip to a locksmith is definitely in your future. If your early style door locks are damaged, odds are that your local locksmith will NOT be able to repair them. Also, removing the early style locks usually breaks the plastic clip that holds them in place, and this clip is no longer available. Unless you are dealing with a concours car, consider upgrading to the later style locks and having them keyed to your ignition key - part number 110192A. This is a relatively simple DIY (do-it-yourself) task that can be accomplished in a few hours. Contact your full-service vendor for details on this option.