I'm considering a 2010 Prius and I'm trying to figure out how I can manage my keys. I understand that it comes with two electronic remote keys. One for my keychain, one for the wife's. I run in the mornings, and I need a small key that can fit in the itty-bitty pocket of my running shorts. I'm not interested in removing the electronic remote fob from my keychain every day, and I'm not sure that an electronic key would hold up to the nasty environment of a runner's pocket anyway. Does the vehicle come with a valet key or some other way of locking and unlocking the doors without using an electronic remote? Is the electronic remote going to allow me to lock the door with a valet key while it is inside?
The electronic key fob has a mechanical key inside. You can pull out the mechanical key and use it to lock the electronic fob in the car. Take the mechanical key with you. As a point of consideration, leaving the electronic fob in the car makes it easier to steal your Prius. Tom
Using a key ring will still be an issue for you, since the mechanical key has the loop to fit on a key ring.
I would suggest a split key ring with a quick-detach. This will allow you to clip on the fob (and small key) to your keychain, and then release your fob /w laser cut key. Then you can simply throw the keys and fob into the trunk, and lock the door with the lasercut key. As others have mentioned though, you will want to shield your fob electronically, to prevent the car from 'seeing' it. Otherwise, anyone who gain access to the car could start it.
How is Yam going to lock the doors with the fob inside the car? Mine beeps at me and the doors won't lock if I leave the fob inside. Even if I don't lock the doors, like when I'm washing the car, the car beeps at me every couple of minutes until I remove the fob.
So I'm confused.... anytime I leave the fob inside the car, it can be stolen by anyone that gains entry? Is there any way to operate the vehicle with the mechanical key, and leave the electronic key behind at home when I go to run? Surely I'm not the first person to have this problem. What are the other runners doing to secure the vehicle during their run?
A similar thread to this is http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-iii-2010-prius-main-forum/64699-what-do-key-while-surfing.html If the fob is within the 2010 Prius and not electrically shielded, then a thief merely has to push the start button. That means if he looks for valuables in the Altoids box and finds your fob, he can now drive away with your car. So anytime the fob is left inside your Prius, there is an increased chance that your Prius will not be there after your run. My .02 cents is that you should try putting the fob someplace under the hood. From the manual, it looks like the engine compartment is out of range but you might still may want to put it in an metal box for extra measure. After starting the Prius, you may even be able to stick the fob under the hood before leaving home (although I don't think you can switch driving modes). I don't know how hot it gets under there so you may want to insulate the box as well. You would then use your key to lock and unlock the door, and then pop the hood to retrieve your fob. A car thief would have to break in, pop the hood, and locate the key. Not very likely IMO. Let's us know if you find a solution that works well.
When I am running, I always carry a bottle of water on a water belt. The belt has a small pocket in it. I keep the fob (for my 2004 Prius) on a quick-disconnect section of my keychain and put the fob into the pocket in my water belt. If you don't wear a water belt, there are small pockets made for joggers. They are basically a pocket mounted on an arm band for joggers to carry keys, etc. You should just go to your local running store and see what is available. I think the problem of how to carry the fob while running is a lot simpler than how to carry the fob when surfing. At least you don't have to worry about the fob getting wet.
