LOL, I like your 'troubleshooting' approach! (I got to remember to ask for help when the time comes!!)

If it does turn out to be the key, you can get them off ebay for about $20 or so.... A whole lot better than the $165 I saw the local dealer charge someone last year!! Ouch! I kind of need to get an extra for mine.
Now I like this reprogram idea as well. I have never liked or wanted to keep this feature. I just see this as being more trouble for me than it would ever be for any thieves that knew what they are doing.