Figured I'd share this find.

Just found this on eBay:

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/New-Keyless-E...vxp=mtr&_uhb=1

I ordered one because my switchblade (which was retrofitted) doesn't stay closed and hangs out. Common problem with retrofitted switchblades.
People with a switchblade (non retrofitted) also have a problem where the slot where the key closes gets worn and doesn't stay closed.

With this replacement blade, all I have to do is swap my immobilizer chip and get it milled and cut and reassemble it into my switchblade.

Also handy for people who wish to get a switchback. You wouldn't have to cut up your old blade and transfer it over like I did. All you have to do is get the blade on ebay milled and cut.

 

Let us know how it works out, I have been very close to purchasing a new key fob. This way will be much cheaper

 

I'll post fitment and such when I get it for sure =)

Definitely will beat the looks of my JB welded blade.

 

Man this is just in time... I bent my key getting out of my work truck the other day. Thx

 

Thanh, did you receive this yet? If you can, can you post one of your DIY's that you do so well so us noobs can figure it out. Mine has been bugging me for a while and would like to get it fixed up like new again

 

sub'd

 

Sorry for the late update.

I received the key.

I fit it into the switchblade housing and everything fit fine, albeit a bit tight, but expected.

Went searching around for someone to mill the blade for older TLs.
Everyone turned me down saying it's "impossible" and only the factory machines can do it.

Sold it to Noober, since he can actually use it for his switchblade without milling.

Here's a picture:



If you guys want a DIY on how to swap your switchblade blade with a new one from eBay, I can make one.

 

i actually had 1 original key and 2 keys i bought off ebay, bought the replacement blanks, swapped out the already cut blades on the used keys and had it cut and programmed on my 2008 tl-s and now i have 3 days to use, who ever told you it couldnt be done is just too lazy or dont have the machine laser etch the key for you. i suggest look around some more.

 

I have a 2004 TL, whereas you have a 2008 TL which uses laser cutting.

They can't turn a blank into an 04-06 key.

Here's a comparison:



Locksmiths CAN however cut a blank into a laser cut key.

 

Did it at least lock/close in the proper position with that blank?

 

Yes, as if brand new.

 

good find. the loose switchblade problem is a known problem for these acura switchblades. its even documented in a TSB. Mine was loose before too, but luckily I had found someone selling a new oem switchblade key for $20 here on azine so I hopped on that right away and I transferred all the wearable internals from that key onto my key. BTW the wearable part is just that half silver part in the middle, that's what's causing the key to not lock tight.

When/if my current one wears out I'll probably go with this option

 

Not sure if you know this already, but I thought I'd leave this here for anybody interested or researching this kind of mod.

HeelToe Auto can mill the new blanks to fit 04-06 TLs for about $60.00 (before shipping charges), so this would be a viable option if you bought a used switchblade on the cheap.

I bought a set of two switchblades awhile back, one which was cut to fit the ignition of an 07-08 (the other one was a new milled one for my car). Instead of having it sit around uselessly, I decided to send it in to HeelToe since I got the set of keys for a reasonable price, and they had a 10% off coupon code during the holiday season for their specialty services (they are one of the few trustworthy vendors I would get this done through). Now I have two milled keys ready to work for my 05!

 

Hey George, the silver part is metal lol; it does not wear.
It's merely so the spring can sit on and spin smoothly across.

The wearing part is the plastic slot that holds the key in its position. The slot becomes too large over time causing a bigger position (the key to hang outwards).

 

Whoops... Read your DIY a little below this thread, and saw that you already knew about this. Disregard!

 

My bad, I meant to say it's the part on your pic where the wall arrow is pointing to. The edges get too smooth and worn so it doesn't hold right anymore. Luckily it's a removeable part so I was able to fix my key that way.