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how to save money on FOB?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by coyote2, Oct 14, 2014.

  1. coyote2

    coyote2 Member

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    I need to replace one of my FOBs. (It drains batteries fast, apparently due to a stuck button.)

    Is there an easy but frugal way to get a new FOB?

    For example, if I get a used one (I see one online for $63 shipped), how much would a dealer charge to program it for my Prius?

    (As for the key, I can just cannibalize my existing FOB.)
     
    #1 coyote2, Oct 14, 2014
  2. JC91006

    JC91006 Senior Member

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    Free the button with a sharp exacto knife or utility knife
     
    #2 JC91006, Oct 14, 2014
  3. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    there are many threads here on replacement fobs. some more successful than others. sorry i can't point yo to a successful one, all the best!(y)
     
    #3 bisco, Oct 14, 2014
  4. coyote2

    coyote2 Member

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    Thank you very much for your reply, JC91006, but I can't free the button because none seem/appear to be stuck (this is just the best theory offered in the other thread).

    So I think I'll go ahead try whatever is recommended. I just phoned my dealership and they said if the used one I get is good a reprogram would cost me $79.50. I can deal with that ($63 + $79.50)(though it will hurt because I'm on disability) because I need a good 2nd FOB now.
     
    #4 coyote2, Oct 14, 2014
  5. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    yes, you don't want to lose your only fob that gets real expensive.
     
    #5 bisco, Oct 14, 2014
  6. JC91006

    JC91006 Senior Member

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    You are probably just buying inferior batteries.

    You should buy a new fob from amazon for $118 and program it yourself.

    I have never heard of a dealer programming a used key for only $80. They normally charge more for used key programming (if they can even do it), new key programming normally is over $120
     
    #6 JC91006, Oct 14, 2014
  7. coyote2

    coyote2 Member

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    I think not, since the same batteries last for years in my good FOB as I mentioned in the thread linked to above.
    Thank you very much JC91006, perhaps I shouldn't risk $63 on a used one. And I didn't realize that self programming was an option!
    They did warn me it might not work, and mentioned in that case one might chose to pay $190.80 to reset the computer.
     
    #7 coyote2, Oct 14, 2014
  8. JC91006

    JC91006 Senior Member

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    Yes you can do it yourself for FREE.

    How to Program a New Key Fob for Full SKS Functionality | PriusChat
     
    #8 JC91006, Oct 14, 2014
  9. coyote2

    coyote2 Member

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    Sweet! I'll but that $118 Amazon FOB asap! Thank you so much!!
     
    #9 coyote2, Oct 14, 2014
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