can you program a key to a car that won't start

What is your question?

topok to dealership to get keys programmed for my vw beetle. 1st said, can't program it as it need new battery cables, possibly a battery and top fue box. Got them replaced. Took back to dealership and said no illumination lights on dashboard, can't program. decided to have a diagnostic scan by them run. Needs ignition switch and wiring harness. Did that as well then returned it again to dealership. Got a call saying we programmed the keys BUT car won't start. Can't help you. So this brings me to my initial question. Can a key get programmed to a car that doesn't run.