transponder key replacement
 

anyone know where in lower mainland can I get a replacement transponder key cut and reprogram for my 2005 STi other than dealership?

I just quickly read this article: https://subaru.locksmithsdrm.com/sr-...t_key_info.pdf

"WEB SITE ACCESS: AUTHORIZED SUBARU RETAILERS
Authorized Subaru Retailers can access SLIS through Subarunet (under the Service tab,
or by directly following the URL Product Selection. Access to the immobilizer
information will only be allowed for Subaru Dealership Service Managers and Parts
Managers. Access will be granted by using the managers’ SMART user name. No other
employees can access the Subaru Immobilizer Database."

Read that section and below, looks like only authorized folks in dealership can access that database, which is a good thing I suppose hah

One other potential option is to DIY... you'll have to do a little research on your own to determine whether it's feasible for the 2005 STi though, and if it is, it does require a bit of work.

I went through a similar thing with a 2004 Lexus RX330. We only had a single keyfob for it, but wanted a second one. Getting it through the dealership would have cost well over $300.

I more or less followed the instructions here: How To Program 2005 RX330 Key - Club Lexus Forums

Not sure how similar or different it will be for your car.

I bought a used transponder unit with key blank on eBay for like $30.

I got the key cut at Broadway Locksmith for about $30.

The smart keymaker cost me like $10 on eBay.

All in all, it cost me well under $100.

The one to for unlocking your doors is here: Program 05 STi Keyfob - NASIOC

Not sure what else you need...

By law there has to be a supplementary way to program a key/fob to a vehicle without the proprietary software from the dealer. The trick is figuring out what that happens to be.

Ive don't is on my Lexus and its a pain but it works and I just wanted to give it a try even though I have the diagnostic software to program with a computer.