Smart key - how to avoid ever replacing again

Ive you lose both fobs that come with the car, you have to tell the dealer because adding a fob to your set is a different programming operation than creating a new master fob.

Taking the battery out of the fob if you leave it in the car is so you can still use the smart function of your other fob. Personally, I wouldn't hide a fob in the car, but that's just me.

 

Just bought our Prius and want to get a 3rd key. I see them on eBay. I've seen instructions on how to program an "extra remote" or "programming new keys" both here on PriusChat and on Coastaltech. Problem is, neither site mentions if these instructions are for the old Prius or the current model. Anyone know? I'm hoping a 3rd smart key can be programmed to work in the current Prius if you have an existing, working smart key. Am I mistaken? I'd like to assume that instructions written for the "Prius" refer to the current model, seeing as it's been out for 3 years already and is many times more popular than the original, but I can't be sure.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(SW03ES @ Dec 9 2006, 10:21 AM) [snapback]359740[/snapback]</div>

...BACK TO THE FUTURE!

 

I don't have the booklet here at my cubicle with me, but I THINK that the Toyota extended warranty (available here, through the PC Accessories store) covers key replacement.
I also have auto insurance (through Safeco) that included, for an incredibly modest fee, keyfob replacement, as well as a host of other "amenities".
You might check auto insurance coverage, or your extended warranty, if you have one, and see if you might be covered for keyfob loss

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Rae Vynn @ Jun 27 2007, 03:51 PM) [snapback]468999[/snapback]</div>

I can't imagine that an extended warranty would cover loss. After all, the loss is due to your own negligence. Also, I would bet that most people have a high enough deductible on their auto insurance that making a claim for a lost keyfob would probably be a moot point.

 

I'm confused, too, about taking the battery out. Do you carry an extra with you so that you can put it in if you need it to start the car?

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Zoozoo3 @ Jun 27 2007, 01:05 PM) [snapback]469011[/snapback]</div>

The fob does not require a battery when inserted in the slot in the dash for operating the car. The battery is required for the sks function to work.

 

Since I'm a solo driver, I keep a "dead" fob (battery removed) hidden in my car in case my purse (with my "live" fob) is lost or stolen. Since I have SKS, the fob can't be active or I could never lock my car--it would sense the presence of a fob on the inside and just make rude beeps at me.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(mcbrunnhilde @ Jun 28 2007, 12:05 AM) [snapback]469264[/snapback]</div>

I trust you keep the mechanical key from the dead fob hidden on the outside of the car.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(hschuck @ Jun 28 2007, 10:55 AM) [snapback]469517[/snapback]</div>

Well...almost. I got an el cheapo copy made (it's a standard Toyota blank). If it ever falls off, I don't have to replace the special little fob key.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(mcbrunnhilde @ Jun 28 2007, 07:19 PM) [snapback]469744[/snapback]</div>

Does the el cheapo copy work? It sounds like a great idea... I'd consider having a few made just so I could hide my extra fob in the car, with layers of aluminum foil so not to disturb the sensor.

 

Seems like this could help. One RFID per fob, one on each cat, and of course one for the TV remote.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(fphinney @ Dec 7 2006, 12:33 AM) [snapback]358763[/snapback]</div>

I have lost spare keys using a magnetic box. I now use duct tape behind my license plate ( don't tell the thieves )

 

I had a magnetic key holder on my Camry, saved me several times, never came off even when driven off road. I had it under the left rear corner beside the spare wheel well. They must be on a very flat panel.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(jimnjo @ Feb 20 2007, 06:42 AM) [snapback]393197[/snapback]</div>

With the key fob in the car (front seating area) with the battery intact, you won't be able to lock the car from the outside (my 2006 won't- I tried for s$%ts and giggles) Good safety feature! Be careful, though. It is possible to lock the doors with the fob in the rear of the car (such as if left inside a suitcase or backpack).

If you turn off the Smart key Function but leave the fob w/ battery inside car, you'll have to use the mechanical key for entry.


Chris