Apologies to those who are reading this elsewhere. I can't seem to get a straight answer (from dealers, not forum members) and thought I'd try here.

I wasn't very bright and I put my intelligent key through the wash. After letting it dry out it never regained function.

I've been quoted prices all over the board for fixing/replacing it. As the actual key part of the device wasn't damaged, some dealers have told me all I need is the remote casing into which the metal key slides. I've been quoted anywhere from $82 to $300 for a new intelligent key (plus programming).

Does anyone know what I should expect to pay for the remote casing part of the intelligent key (if that's even possible to purchase as a stand-alone part)?

My last question, if you could humor me, is for those with intelligent keys. You can start the car with the metal key in the ignition if you so choose, correct? I'd try myself but my car's in the shop.

Thanks in advance for any help and apologies again to those who are reading this a second time.

 

Yes, you can start the car with the key that's hidden in the fob - it's a full function key with an immobilizer chip. Don't you have a second fob?
As for your replacement cost questions, better ask a dealer - theirs is the only quote that's going to count. If you come across like you're just curious about the price they're not going to give you a serious answer. Place an order for one and ask for a written price up front.

 

Did you try to take it apart? Replace the battery?

 

For future knowledge. If you get something wet that's not supposed to be, ie.. intellikeys, phones, handhelds, etc. Put them in a sealed ziplock bag full of uncooked rice for 24hrs. This should do the trick for drying them out. Cant remember where I heard it, but it's worked for me before. Good luck.

Ryan

 

Dude
I did the same thing, mine never worked after I dried it in the sun. The Dealer quoted me $375.00.

 

See below
https://g35driver.com/forums/g35-coupe-v35-2003-07/105293-intelligent-key-wash.html

 

You should be able to buy a used one off ebay or from somewhere. I'm not sure about programming them. That might only be done by the dealer but you might try a google search or local locksmiths. I would even call different dealers to see if any are cheaper.

 

When they get wet, it's easy for the battery to get used up and go dead. I took my wet one apart, let it dry, and then swapped the battery from my 2nd key fob. It worked fine with the new battery.

 

lol i washed and dried one of my intelligent key in the washer and drier. It dint work after that.

I had no problem getting a replacement. dealer guy was really kool about it and just replaced it for me. Ofcourse that day i was dishing out 300+ for a 15k service so i dont think he was gona push my buttons on such a simple thing.

it was mapleshade infiniti of newjersey. service guy was George. Really kool guy and understanding. thats why i drive 1 hour out of my way to them instead of 9miles to my shtty local infiniti for any rattle issues or services.

 

How hard is it to take apart the intelligent key? I was trying to open mine, but was afraid I would break it. It says to go to the dealer to replace the battery, but I don't wanna get broken off just to change a freakin battery. What kind of instrument did you use to take it apart without damaging it? Thanks

 

OH OH OH

I threw my intelligent key in the wash a few months ago and it didnt work!!!

but I put a brand new battery in today and it started to work again!!!!

all you have to do is remove the inside key and put a flathead screwdriver or a bottle opener on the tab that is underneth the traditional (the un-intelligent) key and just pry it open

 

Thanks to everyone for your very helpful replies. I am now hoping that it's just a dead battery and therefore cheaply and easily fixed. Although, knowing my limited skills, it won't be easy.

I'd be appreciative if you could explain this a little more for me as I'm afraid of (further) breaking my key.

You are talking about using a flathead screwdriver where I have put a blue arrow? I only ask, because it seems like somewhere within the actual metal key part (marked with red arrow) there would need to be an immobilizer chip if you can start the car with only that.



CLG35, many thanks for providing the link to that thread. I am surprised I didn't find it in a search (as I used the term 'intelligent key'), and with a fresh attempt, it still doesn't show up, nor if I try 'wash'. Strange that the thread isn't included with the other results.

 

yup exactly, that blue arrow. Just the other day I opened it up with a sharp knife...but you prob want to open it up with a flathead with electric tape on the tip just to prevent scratches. The battery would be right infront of your eyes once you open up that rear hatch. You will see that rubber O-Ring as well, which provides water protection for the electronics, but not for the battery.


this is funny, how everybody throws their intelligent keys in the wash. Prob cause we never take em out of our pockets


once you pry it open, some of the actual (unlock, lock, trunk, alarm) buttons might fall out. just clip them back in before you close it again