jimbodude

Hey guys, just wanted to share that I was able to make my own switch blade key. The remote casing broke and decided to upgrade keyfob. The remote isn't the highest build quality, but it's a cheap DIY. Didn't have time to make a video, so here's a quick summary:

Tools needed:
1. Dremel
2. Hammer
3. Nail or watch tools to remove roll pin
4. Small philips screwdriver
5. Hot glue gun
6. Plyers
7. Flathead screw driver

Instructions
1. The S2000 remote is similar to the TL and there's a drop in shell that works with the existing remote internals. Just need to bend the battery terminals a bit and hot glue it to the housing. Test out all the buttons before continuing.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/262569597212
2. Break apart your key to remove the transponder (use valet key if you still have it). This video is not of the exact key but it's pretty much in the same position. Remove transponder from the rubber housing and hot glue it to the slot in the new remote.
3. Get your key duplicated without the transponder chip for a little over $2. Its important to make sure they don't sell you one with the chip as that will be $40. Home depot had a key with lots of metal under the rubber part. The brand was Hilman Group. Follow similar steps in step 1 to remove the rubber to expose all the metal.
4. Follow this link to remove the roll pin (I used some watch tools to remove it) and dremel out the same pattern. One important thing is to make sure the key length is the full length that the keyfob can accept or else it will hit the plastic around the ignition. I just measured the keyblank it came with and added in the extra length that was left. I think it was around 58mm.
DIY Switchblade Key and Fob in Under an Hour - LotusTalk - The Lotus Cars Community
5. Optional but I had to do it for mine. Make sure the key locks in both positions. I had to cut little bit of plastic off around the button area. Reinstall the case. Make sure to wind the spring one full rotation counter clockwise. Go test the remote on the ignition.

jimbodude

Photos of finished product

thoiboi

on censoring your keys... too often people just post them on the Internet all willy nilly and then wonder how their cars get stolen

jimbodude

Well, they'd need my transponder chip as well. lol