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Convert your regular key to a switchblade key for about $30

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30K views 17 replies 8 participants last post by  thequinner  
I
#1 ·
I haven't seen any info on this in the Forte forums, so I thought that I'd share.

I have successfully converted my spare keyset into a stylish switchblade setup. Here is what you need:

The blank switchblade key and case ($20, free shipping, arrived in 5 business days, if the link expires - seller is "gies.store" and you'll want the one called "Folding Remote Key Flip for KIA Cerato Sorento Spectra"

Folding Remote Key Flip for KIA Cerato Sorento Spectra on eBay.ca (item 270455741605 end time 12-Nov-09 04:02:42 EST)

The key will come with two blades, one of which is installed. I had to have the blade swapped with the extra one since that template was needed for my car (but one of the blades will definitely be the one). I had the locksmith swap it out since the pin that holds it is microscopic. Take your blank to an experienced locksmith for cutting since the template will require extensive modification (it's too wide). In any case, it ends up working.

Next, you will have to transfer the "guts" from your remote to the new case. It's simple, just pry open the case, remove the inside and peel off the keys.

The next step is the most important or your new gadget WILL NOT start the car. Take your spare and remove the rubber (cutting required). It's best to cut around the key, along the seams. You will see the immobilizer chip wedged into to the plastic after removing the rubber. CAREFULLY dislodge the chip (I cut away the plastic tabs first to make it easier). Place the chip inside the switchblade case (there is a spot to wedge it into).

You will now have a working switchblade key. Be careful when cutting your spare to remove your chip. If you cut along the seams, you will be able to place the chip back (if you ever want to) and superglue the rubber back together.

Overall, it's not a difficult project to do and it cost me $30 ($20 for the new key and $10 for the locksmith). I can post pics if needed.

Good luck!
 
G
#4 ·
Cuz to start the car, an immobilizer chip is required. To use the remote starter, they have to hide the chip somewhere in my car. So, I definately don't want to get stuck with only 1 key, and the dealer will obviuosly not sell you a programmed chip. They have to sell you a key too.

And of course, if you tell them you're getting a starter installed elsewhere, they'll be pissed, cuz they say, "Well, why are you installing a starter for 320$ somewhere else when we're charging 700 plus installation plus tax?" :mad: Did I mention I hate dealers? lol
 
I
#5 ·
I was considering getting a remote starter, but eventually decided against it. Having a remote starter mens giving up engine immobilizer function and that's a risk that I'm unwilling to take. Also, your insurance company assumes you have a working immobilizer. If you disable it and fail to notify your insurance (which will hike up your rate), they can try to screw you in case of theft (but only if the vehicle is recovered, otherwise how would they know?).

Also, since my Forte is a manual, I don't like the idea of leaving it in neutral and depending on the parking brake alone, I like to leave it in gear.

That being said, I still envy those with a remote starter on really cold mornings!
 
A
#8 ·
Does anyone have any alternate links to someone selling the switchblade setup?

"gies.store" Seems to have shut down his ebay account perhaps as recent as 3 weeks ago. So that doesn't seem possible anymore.

Ebay seems to have this particular setup:
Image


But I'm not too fond of the design. (still far superior to the standard kia two-piece setup)

I would love to have this one:
Image


But can't seem to find any sellers at the moment. Though "http://www.radicargarage.com/kia.php" does have the item listed, they only mention "wholesale price for a minimum of 15 pieces" and I don't think I need more than one piece at the moment :p
 
I
#9 · (Edited)
A
#10 · (Edited)
Hi ile2010,

Thanks for the reply. I think I have one last set of questions,

Image


This particular keyfob seems decent. My only concern is the recessed buttons that are shown in the image. Is that simply because the chip needs to be put in the shell to 'support' the buttons? Or does your fob have this recess?

Also, is it possible you could take a quick picture of your keyfob and upload it? It would really help me with my decision. Thanks for any help!

ile2010 said:
Sorry, about the late reply. Your second image looks exactly like the one I purchased from gies.store.

Here's a current listing:

KIA KEY BLANK SWITCHBLADE STYLE W/ BLUE LED on eBay.ca (item 250544255119 end time 09-Dec-09 20:01:43 EST)

Also, this appears to be the same one I have:

FLIP Folding Key Remote for KIA Sorento Sportage Rio on eBay.ca (item 260473725639 end time 05-Jan-10 10:55:53 EST)
Click to expand...


---EDIT--- Just realized the reason the buttons appear 'recessed' is because the shell is cracked open. Somehow I managed to be smart enough to miss that.
 
I
#11 · (Edited)
Here are some pics. The guts from your key fob will fit perfectly. There is a plastic bracket inside that will hold the immobilizer chip in place (remember, you have to cut it out of one of your keys).

Make sure you take your switchblade key to a good locksmith to cut, as the blank is not perfect. Don't take it to some kid at a big-box store.

For some reason, it won't show my pics. Email me at iculum@uwo.ca and I'll send you the pics.
 

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A
#13 ·
I just received my switchblade key and unfortunately I don't think I can be as positive as you are.

I ordered this item: FLIP Folding Key Remote for KIA Sorento Sportage Rio:eBay Motors (item 260473725639 end time Jan-05-10 07:55:53 PST)

It arrived with only one keyblade pre-installed and no alternative. Unfortunately this blank mould is not the correct key I need for my Kia Forte Koup.

Would anybody happen to know where I can get a blank key that WILL fit a Forte Koup?

Alternatively, is it possible to make a pin-hole in my current key (the one that I was hoping to remove the transponder from) and have it retrofitted into the switchblade?

I hope someone sees this message :D. Thanks for any help in advance.
 
T
#18 · (Edited)
Warning

UK customers - be careful before you order this product.
I have ordered one for my carens and swapped the electronics over no problem.

However, when I have gone to Timpsons to have the key cut they say it is now compamy policy NOT to cut third party blanks! They also do not supply blanks that would fit this unit.

I went to other locksmiths in the town and got told either they did not have the correct machine to cus the key (apparantly it costs a lot of money and only cuts a few key types so is not economical to buy) or they would not cut blanks other then their own.

This was the same when I phoned other locksmiths.

In the longrun I have not been able to find anyone who is willing/able to cut the blank for this unit so it is useless to me.

The only advice I got was go to the dealer. I imagine this will put the costs up beyond what I am willing to pay for the change so i will stick with the original keys. At least I have only lost £15.00!
 
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