I love my 2009 XK in every way... except one! The key fob really bothers me. It feels flimsy, plasticy (is that a word?) and cheap, not at all appropriate for a luxury car. Even my old S-Type key felt better: while it was also plastic, atleast it was heavier and felt more solid. I feel envious of the XJ owners who get the heavy metal fob: sure, it's REALLY heavy but I'm a man, carrying around heavy objects made of metal is what I'm made for :P

Does anyone know of an after-market keyfob? It's essentially just a plastic shell that houses a circuit board, so it shouldn't be impossible to have something made in metal (atleast partly metal).

I realize I could just attach a key ring of some kind to it, but that would add volume (which I'd rather not), and the fob itself would still feel cheap and plasticy when I hold it.

 

I think a metal shell would severely impact the RF output of the remote, unless it was carefully engineered to use the case as an antenna, but I think that's expecting too much from an after-market key fob.

 

i'd be concerned with not being able to use the key slot in the armrest with an aftermarket key fob.. Just in case the signal was funky or the battery got low. Maybe keep the old empty shell somewhere in the car just in case, so you could put it back together if you ever needed to. Assuming you can find what you are looking for.

 

Line the inside of the case with epoxy. Maybe adhere a few fishing weights as well.
Tape it to a brick???

 

That would probably make a servicable self defence weapon. Ah pitty the foo' who tries to carjack me. Sadly, a brick would also add too much volue to it.

 

I've added some tungsten putty to a TV remote before to add weight so it would sit in the charger better. Looks like there is a little space inside our fobs that you could add some in.

 

As an alternative, consider putting a silicone jacket over your fob. Here's mine:

Putting it on...


Front, Installed:


Back, Installed:


I prefer the feel of this soft case to the OEM hard plastic. Plus, it protects the original fob (although one of mine is pretty scratched up). Well made and worth the cost - $4.99 delivered ... if you're lucky .... and patient since it's from Hong Kong. It's on eBay - here's the link: Silicone Skin Cover for XF XK XKR 5 Buttons Smart Remote Key Case Black | eBay It also fits other models - see the eBay listing.


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Stuart

 

I must admit I was pleasantly surprised when I got my car and the key fob. I was used to this heavy one similar to what I have with my Lexus but this was way lighter. I can hardly feel it in my pocket which is OK for me.

 

My wife seems to live on Facebook and other sites. This Forum has got me hooked and the conversations are most amusing with excellent information and humor. I am still training myself to use the Forum. I would love to hear how others have mounted a front American plate on the XK Coupe. I like the looks of the revolving James Bond type holder. Any help for me

 

Gom,
Welcome to the forum. You'll find lots of information and helpful members here. Learn how to use the search function for the answers to many of your questions. This forum has been around for 9 years, so almost everything has already been discussed. We need to know about your Jaguar, so update your signature with the year and model and any other details.
Stuart

 

Welcome and as to the hidden plate unit check your state laws as it may be illegal.

 

Welcome to the Forum