Broken Key

[bex]

So I was about to fill up the tank yesterday in mid Wales when I tried to open the filler cap and the tip of the key snapped off.

Not having my spare key with me, and still over 200miles from home I presumed I’d be going home in a van. Anyway, with the magic of superglue, insulating tape and filler cap dismantling, I was on my way.

Metropolis don’t reckon it’s a warranty issue, I guess that’s possibly true, but not entirely convinced? I wasn’t being rough with it (gentle soul that I am), so I don’t know what caused it to break. I guess a key could be classed as an item subject to general wear? Still, only had it 9 months, generally keys last longer than that!

They’re saying £39 for a key blank which I then have to take to a key cutter and pay them to copy my original. They also say they need to inspect the bike to see if it could be a warranty issue. I asked what they would be looking for and they couldn't give me a answer. Odd. Suspect maybe proof of misuse/being rough with it.

Mildly annoying. One of those things I suppose.

Any thoughts?

[Rally]

Sorry to learn of your news Bex, but glad you made it home. It does make you question, 'How many of us carry a spare on our bike or person?'

If you don't really feel the original Ducati key is worth the extra, most key cutters will have a plain blank for a fiver or less. It's only the black plastic bit that you're paying for I expect.

[bex]

Not to worry, all adds to the adventure eh. Oh didn't realise that, I did scratch my head a bit when he said £39 for a key that still needed to be cut.

In that case they can go poke it then. :biggrin:

[Rally]

Kawasaki and Honda keys are similar stupid money. If you can't find one, let me know. We use a company in Surrey that specialise in vehicle keys from all makes. They are usually about £10 cut and including postage. The cut from your number not a key as well, so do it over the phone on a credit card.

[slob]

If Metropolis don't think the key breaking is a warranty issue, ask another dealer

[rollo22]

Next will be the fun bit to re code the new key

[JerryT]

Glad you weren't stranded!

I expect your key is similar to mine as we both have 2010 models and I just micrometered the tip ( i know i know - NERD!) and it is 0.56mm, which is rather thin by my reckoning...

[bex]

Haha nerdy yes, but agreed, is a tiny thin bit of metal on the end, thanks Jerry!! Will see how it goes with another dealer or decent garage opinion on it.

Had something in a hat to keep me company. These yellow monsters just keep on appearing!

[JerryT]

And just when you need them too!! LOL

[bex]

Indeed, I never woulda survived the ordeal without that cuppa while I did all the hard work! :running:

[Albie]

I have to say Bex that I feel the locks are not that user friendly unlike the older models. I still when I open my fuel cap, try to turn it like what I thought the old type was. The s4 and m900 used to turn against a spring and the new ones don't. I believe this is what you did unknowingly. NOT your fault in my opinion and a design that leaves very little margin for mistake.

I do try and remember turn it gently and lift at same time. Not always easy.

Hope you get it sorted asap under warranty.

[bex]

Cheers Albie, could well have been that, though the key barely made it into the lock before snapping. Should be thankful really as it meant the snapped off bit was outside and not stuck in the lock!

[Albie]

Cheers Albie, could well have been that, though the key barely made it into the lock before snapping. Should be thankful really as it meant the snapped off bit was outside and not stuck in the lock!

Not saying it is but I do wonder if we unwittingly could damage the frail end. Like I said I hope you get some good news rather than a bill.
I will be very much more careful myself from now. Paranoia has now stepped into my head.:D

[Stafford]

Glad you got home Bex, amazing what you girls carry in your utility belts.
Are keys on the new model not coded so you can use any old key blank from a corner shop?

[Albie]

Glad you got home Bex, amazing what you girls carry in your utility belts.
Are keys on the new model not coded so you can use any old key blank from a corner shop?

Just looking at mine and I cant see any signs of it. Possibly could be but we have NO red key just a Credit card with a number on in case of emegency. It obviously has some security built in somewhere but I have no idea. Anyone else know whats the crack. Fortunately I have not had the aerial syndrome as yet.:eek:

The key does almost have a blade on the bottom though and can see how easy it could be to damage it with just a drop on the road.:mad:

[bex]

Note to all then be careful! Lucky I had a spare, albeit at home! :)

[gary tompkins]

I'm surprise bike Duicati don't use a retractable key like some cars

The ones where the it hinges out of the fob when you press a button - like a switch blade

Might make it a bit bulky though

[Stuart42]

I'm surprise bike Duicati don't use a retractable key like some cars

The ones where the it hinges out of the fob when you press a button - like a switch blade

Might make it a bit bulky though

I'm surprised Ducati don't make a proper key as the new ones really are designed to fail. I couldn't believe it when it happened, just lucky it didn't fall off in either lock as would've been well and truly snookered.

Still we sorted it so it could be got back rather than wait for recovery.

Cheers
Stuart

[uksurfer]

those new ducati keys is the reason i've not bought a diavel yet

[Liz]

Glad you managed to sort it Bex (be more gentle next time ;) )

[Stafford]

those new ducati keys is the reason i've not bought a diavel yet

There must be another reason?

[Rally]

There must be another reason?

Especially as a Diavel doesn't have a key like that anyway! :spin:

I think its really because his goatee will suit it too well................... ;)

[uksurfer]

Especially as a Diavel doesn't have a key like that anyway! :spin:

I think its really because his goatee will suit it too well................... ;)

i'll have to trim my goatee, wouldnt want it getting caught up in the tool roll on the front fender :D

Glad you got your bike sorted Bex

[gary tompkins]

Non-locking billet fuel cap may be a good long term option