I am aware we have transponders in our keys for the evo. I have an '03 and I was wondering if you placed the main key to start the car if the column (Close enough to the sensor (wherever it is..) if you could use a spare cut key to start the car. I don't want to pay to have another main key made, but mainly I just want to find out if it can be done.

Thanks!

 

Yep.

That is how the majority of remote start systems are installed. You can cut the transponder out of the key and glue it to the antenna ring, you can also remove the antenna ring and place it down the column with a whole key, etc.

Or you can just turn it off in ecuflash

 

How close does the actual key need to be to the column to work?

I went from an MR to a GSR recently and the option I miss most from the MR is the Fast Key (I went cheap this time)

I wonder If I could keep the main key in my pocket and leave a cheap cut key in the ignition to start it. I think I'll try this soon unless someone knows it wont work....

 

Usually, at least with Toyota transponders that I have experience with, it has to be no more then a couple inches at most from the sensor. So keeping it in your pocket may not be a viable option.

 

I am amazed at how people want to bypass the transponder. This is a security feature which in all actuality could prevent the theft of your beloved Evo.

Transponders range is only a few inches.

Only lower end remote start units use a transponder glued in the shroud. Personally, I would never do it that way to save a few dollars. This leaves your car very vulnerable to theft.

 

When I had my SRT-10 truck (push button start from factory) numerous guys glued the chip in a hidden location near steering column then cut the wire that requires the ignition be turned to accessory that way they could just hop in and hit the button and start it up. They also all had some form of an aftermarket alarm too so if the truck was broken into it would disable the ignition anyways. None of theirs ever got stolen.

 

Do what you want.
I have seen the other side of the coin to many times to count, probably why I have my point of view.

 

I'd hide the transponder and hide a push button somewhere and do it that way, if I was going to do that sort of thing.

 

If you ever feel like upgrading to the switchblade key....try this out... Not what you asked for but thought I would share another option for you.

Parts are about $20 + tax & shipping. eBay links are in the thread below.

https://www.evolutionm.net/forums/ev...y-evo-8-a.html

I will be going this route myself as I only have one master key left (lost the other key & key fob one night) and my last key fob disintegrated on me on day. I forgot how nice it is to have auto entry and NOT have to use your key to unlock/lock your doors! LOL

 

thanks for posting that. will add this to the "to do" list!