Cheap Key Fobs

[Whiplash Willy]

Ok, I know this is a stupid thing to complain about, and really doesn't matter, but is anyone else annoyed about how cheap, light, low tech our new keys are?

First off, the key itself is the old basic design that has been used forever, and is easy bypass. Nothing like the laser cut keys that most car manufactures are using today.

The plastics they use on the key are very light, and super easy to scratch. After 1.5 weeks of use mine is already all scratched up. I wounder how it will last in the long run. My wife's 2004 honda key is in better shape then my new one.

This has got to be one of the cheapest looking and feeling current gen car key of any automaker. Also I am sure that when it does break, it won't be cheap to replace...

 

[4ShoreRunner]

I don't think its a silly thing to get upset about. I sort of hate that I share the same key as a corolla.

My friend just bought a Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition and you'd think after dropping over 40K on a truck the key wouldn't look like it was taken out of the jeep compass parts bin.

 

[Antman]

I like our key fobs. Light, simple and the range (at least on mine) is awesome. My key has also proven to be very durable.

I prefer low tech stuff that works over high tech stuff that breaks easily- KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid).:thumb:

 

[Froggy]

The key was close to a deal-breaker for me.

 

[Froggy]

<edit>

 

[Hellamatic]

So.....I'm going to go out on a limb and predict that you probably aren't taking your 'Runner down any narrow bush trails anytime soon....:rofl:

 

[eddiebx]

I guess it really doesn't bother me too much, but I definitely know what you mean about the plastic; it seems much softer than my 06' Honda key. I really doubt you're going to break the key accidentally though, it's pretty tough plastic; I've dropped my 4runner keys on cement a ton of times

The only thing I miss about the newer "laser cut" key blades are that they are smooth to the touch since the key grooves are on the inner edge (as opposed to ours that are on the outter edge). But hey, at least we can walk down to the locksmitch and only pay a buck or two for a copy right?

 

[1engineer]

Hmmm. My key stays in my pocket when it's not in the ignition. Either place makes it impossible for me to see so I don't even think about the aesthetic value. My key has been durable too. Ranges is good, operation is good, it's never visible to anyone so what else is there?

 

[MAXISTYLES]

The Jacket Store - Keyless Remote Rubber Covers Product List

I got the camo one.

 

[veloindy]

I'm not even sure if this is a serious thread. I've never thought twice about the key, since I bought the truck, mine works great. The first thing I noticed on my test drive was how much I liked the smaller all in one key. Much better than my 4th Gen with a separate key fob. I prefer the all in one design.

 

[Qjake]

What key?

:wink2:

The Jacket Store - Keyless Remote Rubber Covers Product List

I got the camo one.

These are cool, ordered two. Thanks for the link!

 

[kowski49]

I like our key fobs. Light, simple and the range (at least on mine) is awesome. My key has also proven to be very durable.

I prefer low tech stuff that works over high tech stuff that breaks easily- KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid).:thumb:

I totally agree. I still don't know the max range on mine; it works from faaaaar away.

 

[snomobile]

I ordered two one for me and one for hubbys Tundra

The Jacket Store - Keyless Remote Rubber Covers Product List

I got the camo one.

Thanks for the link!

 

[Ol'Baditude]

I like our key fobs. Light, simple and the range (at least on mine) is awesome. My key has also proven to be very durable.

I prefer low tech stuff that works over high tech stuff that breaks easily- KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid).:thumb:

Agreed 100%.

As reference for the OP, here is what my key currently looks like. It was run over lord knows how many times by lord knows what type of vehicles, after accidentally dropping it in a downtown parking lot and luckily finding it ~5hrs later.

Light weight, yes. Simple to operate, yes. Great Range, yes. Flimsy, definitely not.

 

[5POINT56]

The key was close to a deal-breaker for me.

:lmao:

 

[1000MPH]

Thanks for the link!

Haha everyone made fun of these 3 years ago.
I bought 2 of them but I'm still only using the first.
I got the fluorescent orange. Makes it easier to find too.
I got them because someone posted a replacement was $300 IIRC.
Every time I took it in for service the tech commented they were a good idea. Dunno if he was blowing smoke.

 

[LandCruiser]

I hate that I have to turn the keys with the Toyota logo facing me when I start the truck, otherwise I turn on the alarm.

Also, why can't the ignition be on the dash, again. That was a much better place for it.

 

[Ol'Baditude]

Also, why can't the ignition be on the dash, again. That was a much better place for it.

Yep, One thing I liked better about my 4th Gen.

 

[Whiplash Willy]

Haha everyone made fun of these 3 years ago.
I bought 2 of them but I'm still only using the first.
I got the fluorescent orange. Makes it easier to find too.
I got them because someone posted a replacement was $300 IIRC.
Every time I took it in for service the tech commented they were a good idea. Dunno if he was blowing smoke.

The problem I always have with those silicone covers is every time I put it in my pocket, it gets covered, and holds onto lint....Drives me crazy!

 

[eddiebx]

The problem I always have with those silicone covers is every time I put it in my pocket, it gets covered, and holds onto lint....Drives me crazy!

:iagree: I had one on my old smart key fob and ended up throwing it away. The grip was great though, not once did my keys slip out of my hand :lmao: