How to disable key minder chime
To stop the key minder (note this will affect the head light minder as well).
Option 1: Disable/remove/cut the key warning switch circuit. The wire color is BK/PK. It is on connector C218a pin #2 in the steering column.
The BK/PK wire can also be accessed at the GEM connector C218a pin #9.
There is a possibility that the head light minder may do strange things since technically it wants the key in the ignition. Recommend testing.
Option 2: Alter the key cylinder. Remove the cylinder. There is a switch contact that grounds out when the key is inserted. This is where the leap of faith begins (never actually done this). Alter the ignition cylinder such that the key minder switch no longer grounds out. This could include breaking it off, cutting off the part that sticks inside the cylinder, painting/covering the grounding connection.
Option 3: is to remove/disconnect the chime. Of couse this will stop the seat belt reminder as well.
If someone actually does this, consider posting some pictures. Might make an interesting post.
Obviously, each option has its positive/negative points. Esp if you wish to restore stock function at some point in the future.
Note: the connection numbers are for the 2002 MY. For the 1999-2000 MY, the wire colors are the same, the connectors numbers are different.
If it were my car, I would not cut any wire in the car's wiring harness. Suggest removing the pin from the connector. This makes it easier to restore factory function. Remember to tape/insulate any removed connector.
I would also test this before changing anything that is difficult to undo.