I just bought a 2012 XF 5.0. Has anyone used autotransponder.com website to purchase new keys, blades as well as get the blades cut using their cutting service?? They are the only ones that actually offers the full service at a great price. Before I purchase these and take them to the dealer for programming, I thought I would try to see if others have used this option.

Dealers are asking $385 + $250 for blade ( not sure if this is for the key only or includes the cutting service)+ $120 for programming + tax = Close to $750 to $800.

My only option is to just buy the key and programming for around $500 and not get the blade.

Thanks

 

I'd first find out where the other Smart-key went and who's got it...Assuming you have at least one of the two now..

 

Yes. I have one of the two. The other one is missing. This was an auction car from originally from Hawaii. I would assume that the second set of keys never made it to the auction or got lost when the new dealer received the car. I guess I can assume that not many people have looked at the autotransponder.com option. I think I will play safe and just get the key without the blade since it's only $80 difference. Better safe than sorry.
Thanks.

 

I'd shop the dealers, Jag of Anaheim Hills CA Sold and programmed me a new remote for $325. The blade can only be cut in England from what I've been told.

 

They really do seem to treat people fairly there.

 

My local lock-smith was able to cut a "chipped" valet key for my S-Type for ~$100. He had all the equipment and I bet could have done a full fob-key, too.

Suggest visiting some lock-smiths near you and ask if they can do full auto key replacement work. I think the remote fob technology has become pretty standard so lock-smiths are able to acquire the equipment.

==================================================
Jaguar: Grace, Pace, and Space - Sir William Lyons
'08 Jaguar S-Type 4.2 "Satin Edition" (250.06 hp / 259.67 torque)

 

Thanks everyone for the replies. Unfortunately, I live in Washington state so CA option is not possible. Good news is that the salesperson that sold me the car went out of his way after the sale and contacted the old owner to acquire the second key. All I had to do was buy a new battery CR2032, figured out how to install it and voila, a second set of keys for my wife to use as a spare. I lucked out and save some $$$$. It's good to know that there are so many knowledgeable people in this forum. Thank you!!

 

Good news!

Now the panic is over perhaps you have time to post an intro in the new members section?

 

Replacing the key fob battery is child's play and the instructions are in the Owner's Handbook.

 

I wouldn't let a child do it. The surface mounted components are barely held on to the circuit board. And there's a small component on the back side that you wouldn't even notice is there. Knock it off with a slight bump, and your quick and simple $3 battery change just turned into a $500+ key replacement.

 

I may not be a child any more, but I'm a real clumsy clutz and I managed to change four of them now without any problems, two each for the XFS and XFR.
It really is simple, but point taken, be careful!

 

Yea, see how long it takes to spot the super sensitive surface mount component. Most people wouldn't even notice it at all.

If that falls off, it's curtains

 

Key battery replacement was a success. Even while holding a year old baby in my arms. The little spring thing that allows you to insert the blade was a little tricky. Tested it out after it was done and works beautifully. Now to get the tint, wax and conditioning done with the money that I saved. I also bought a nice chrome jaguar license plate holder, sunshades, keychain and chrome tire pressure covers from amazon.

 

You should have let the baby do it -- then we would have been impressed.