I searched and didn't find anything on this. I have a 2007 with every package. I personally don't like the smart key. Sometimes I can't remember if I have it in my pocket or the cupholder, always find myself searching for it when I park, etc. Is there an alternative key I can use with electronic door locking/trunk opening ability that fits in the ignition?

Thanks.

 

are you talking about the switchblade key or the credit card style key?

Both Ive just put onto a keychain.

I use the creditcard style one and it never leaves my pocket except for when I take it off at night.

 

I have the credit card currently but would much prefer a switchblade. Are they interchangeable?

 

not sure, probably.. If you pull on the "switch" that you use to turn the car on, it exposes a keyhole (incase your battery dies in your credit card style key)

If you didnt know, the credit card key has a little back up key built into it that you can pull out.

That makes me pretty sure that you can just copy that key and code it, and it will work.

 

Yea - I didn't know if there was some alternative ignition cover that would accomodate a switchblade key. I don't like how bare it looks with the 'switch' removed. But I am being picky. If there isn't any easy way to change to a switchblade I'll just stick with the annoying credit card.

 

You would have to get a new ignition and key system installed. Costly. You might be able to take the smartkey apart and install it into your wallet permanently without the plastic

 

the creditcard smartkey sits inside my wallet, right next to my driver's license and only leaves there when its time to replace its battery.

 

^ I was going to suggest this, but you just cant get pick-pocketed / lose your wallet.

Just attach the key to your house keys and keep them in your pocket.

The smart key is a HUGE advantage over a regular key.

 

I find the smatkey such an improvement over past switchblade keys. Being flat it fits in my side pants pocket easily and is chained onto my keychain. The smartkey "chain"(nylon) can eventually wear through and on one of my two smartkeys that has happened. Maybe rotarywanker's smartkey has the nylon chain worn through. If that is the case just put it in your pocket or wallet and the rest of your stuff that we all carry in our pockets should keep it from falling out and getting lost.

 

I personally like the credit card style key for it's slimness, just put it in my pocket and go. The gripe I have about it is the cost. I had one get flaky and it ultimately cost over $300 for new key plus programming. Even if you just want a metal key not possible to just get any blank made. It needs to have a transponder and be programmed. An uncoded key will turn the ignition but it won't start the car without a working programmed smart key.

Just thinking about putting it in a wallet and sitting in it concerns me. If it breaks it will be costly.

 

My ONLY gripe with it, is the fact that the buttons fade rather quickly, losing their unlock/lock symbols.

 

you are so right, they do rub off over time.

 

If you don't want the buttons on the remote to wear off you can just use the buttons on the car. No need to ever touch the remote once it's on your person

 

I almost never touch the buttons. I think the buttons wear more from entering and leaving my pocket at the end of the day, than me actually pressing the buttons.

 

Exactly , my button's markings rubbed off from just the wear of going in and out of my pockets over time.