Spare fob hidden inside the Prius

[DumbMike]

I recall reading a long time ago about hiding the spare fob somewhere outside the car in case you lose your main key. The problem (among others) was that the car will recognize the existence of the spare fob and will allow anyone to open the car door. Here's my thought:

What about keeping the spare fob inside the cabin, but wrapped in a bunch of aluminum foil to prevent the car's computer from recognizing that the fob is inside the cabin? Then keep the manual key hidden outside the car, somewhere (that thing is so small, you could probably put it anywhere and nobody would know what it is. So, if you lose your fob, you crawl under your car to get the manual key, open the door and dig out your spare fob wrapped in aluminum foil.

So, where am I going wrong?

Mike

[RobH]

You could take the battery out of the spare fob. That way it wouldn't be recognized by the SKS system. The mechanical key would still work, and you could start the car by holding the fob next to the Power button.

[qbee42]

Wrapping with foil works fine. So does a metal can, assuming the lid seals well enough and makes a good electrical connection.

Alternately you can remove the battery.

Tom

[stevemcelroy]

Or use an anti-static bag - the sort of thing that computer parts come packed in - this is what the EZ Pass folks give out with their toll transponders.

[tumbleweed]

Originally Posted by DumbMike

. . . . . .
So, where am I going wrong?

Mike

You are not going wrong Mike. Your idea works fine I have been doing it that way for two years.

[BhamPrius]

So, where's a good spot to hide the spare manual key outside the car?

[tumbleweed]

Originally Posted by BhamPrius

So, where's a good spot to hide the spare manual key outside the car?

If we tell you then everyone will know!

Seriously, I put mine in a small plastic bag to keep it clean and used a tie wrap to secure it to a "secret place" under the car. I don't remember exactly where it is but I think I can find it if I ever have to.

[mad-dog-one]

Here's what I use. RF Blocker Jammer Pouch Bag For cellular Phone & data | eBay

It works fine. I could tell you where I hide it, but then I'd have to kill you.

[DumbMike]

Thanks everybody. Now I feel comfortable about doing this without much of a downside. Hiding the key is a different issue as I haven't taken this issue that far, but I think it should be rather easy to find a secure place. My other thought is that even if somebody found the manual key, all they could do is get inside the car but still can't start it without finding the SKS.

And please don't kill me for telling me the secret ....

Mike

[coach81]

The secret SKS society.... shhhhhhhhhhh