The plastic part of my key is starting to break apart on my 98 cruiser. I could care less about the security it supposedly offers, as my key is left in the ignition 95% of the time- I just want to be able to start it.
Do I have any options other than ordering it through my dealer?
There are several spots on ebay that are selling the shell for I think $25. You use the guts out of yours and then have the new blade cut. Make sure you pick one with good feed back. I have purchase 3 over the years. Also you may not be worried about security, but the key wont work without the guts. Just cutting a new key will only open the door, not start the truck.
The plastic part of my key is starting to break apart on my 98 cruiser. I could care less about the security it supposedly offers, as my key is left in the ignition 95% of the time- I just want to be able to start it.
Do I have any options other than ordering it through my dealer?
Weird...mine split this morning when leaving SF...the plastic housing that holds the metal key portion cracked. I, for some reason, gave the second key to my better 1/2...good darn thing I did!!!
Even if the key breaks you can still use it. You'll just have to hold the transmitter portion up close to the ignition. The ebay key blanks work but are basically the same design and will eventually crack again. Put some locktite on the screw and watch that it doesn't become loose because when it's loose it stresses the key.
And of course when switching the guts you should put in a new battery.
Go to the dealer and have a valet key made. They work and they are solid, so you will alway have a back-up. I've been lucky so far and both my main keys are in good shape. Good luck
Go to the dealer and have a valet key made. They work and they are solid, so you will alway have a back-up. I've been lucky so far and both my main keys are in good shape. Good luck
Another good relativey cheap option...order a Camry key (I think it was a Camry key but CDan will know as he told/sold me about it) from CDan at around $40 (I think) and then another $10 or so to cut...then program it yourself. The key is solid however you need to lock/unlock the doors manually...but cheap insurance that paid off for me this weekend when 200-miles from home!
They break apart...it's a s***ty design. I bought a few off e-bay from China. Took it to the dealer and they didn't charge me anything to cut it.....very nice of them.
