New Remote Start or go for OEM Remote fob?

I would recommend getting a second key and key-fob made ASAP. My last pair were bought on Ebay, the key was uncut but also needed car recognition. The keyfob just needed a new battery and car recognition.

Bob Wilson

 

What happens is the car 'learns' the fob 'seed' and uses a parallel, random number scheme to check the code sent by the fob. Random clicks away from the car can cause a gap but the car is smart enough to check if it is within a known range of acceptable values. It then resynchronizes and all is good.

It has been a while since I last worked in that area but we're talking hundreds, possibly a thousand before the gap gets too large. This is really not a problem.

It is more likely that your one and only fob or one and only key will get lost. Then you are in deep doo-doo.

The car uses a known fob and a complex set of door and control operations to go into 'program mode.' Then it can learn a new fob, tossing the oldest one out. Up to three fobs can be known. Also, up to three keys can be known . . . or that is my understanding.

Seriously, if you only have one key, buy a cheap, equivalent blank and get it cut for the mechanical lock. Once you know the mechanical part works, program the key. The same is true for the keyfob.

A couple of months ago, I misplaced one key and fob, leaving only one pair. So I ordered a blank set and taught the car to recognize the new fob and key. About three weeks later, I found a pair of pants for the laundry and sure enough, there was the missing fob and key. Now I have three sets. <GRINS>

I did this in 2010 so the thread describing what I did should be fairly fresh.

GOOD LUCK!
Bob Wilson