Having just one key and a single red, and one black fob for my Ferrari 360 Spider, I decided to aim for a complete original set of two keys and three fobs (two black, one red). This is a common goal for Ferrari owners looking to restore their car to its original condition and functionality, especially concerning the often-used Ferrari Key Fob.
Restoring Your Ferrari Key Heads
My journey began by sourcing a used key and fob from eBay for $AUD 145. Used ferrari key fobs can sometimes be pricey, so I was pleased with this find. My existing key was quite chipped, prompting me to refresh both keys. The key heads are simply press-fitted; you can carefully remove them from the key shaft with controlled force. I then removed the old paint by soaking the heads overnight in paint thinner.
To improve the look, I also purchased a replacement chrome Cavallino badge from eBay for just a few dollars, as mine was missing.
After a light sanding with fine-grade sandpaper, I applied three coats of etch primer. This primer is crucial for bonding paint to the aluminum key heads, and I lightly sanded between each coat. Following the primer, I applied three coats of EHT Aluminum Engine Enamel. For durability, I baked the heads in the oven at 90°C for 60 minutes. Finally, I applied three coats of Rust-Oleum Clear coat, baking them again at 90°C for another 60 minutes.
I also bought two key blanks from eBay for around $AUD 20 and had them cut to match my original key. A note of caution: the heads on these blanks are often oversized and need trimming to fit snugly into the original aluminum key heads. Precision is key here to ensure a tight press-fit.
This might seem like overkill, but the fast-drying paints allowed me to complete the restoration in a single day. Given how easily the original paint chips, I wanted a robust finish. This process provided the toughest coating I could achieve without resorting to professional baked enamel. Lastly, I attached the new chrome Cavallino badge. The result? Keys that looked brand new.
Acquiring and Identifying the Correct Ferrari Key Fob
Next was the fob. Initially, I mistakenly purchased a US spec fob, which, as I discovered later, is incompatible with my UK import car. It’s essential to do your research before purchasing a ferrari key fob online, especially from platforms like eBay, to avoid compatibility issues.
Fortunately, living in Australia allowed me to contact Immofixer, based in Canberra, who proved to be incredibly helpful.
I was able to exchange my US fob for a UK compatible version. More importantly, Immofixer clarified the programming procedure for adding a new fob to my car’s system. A critical point they emphasized is to avoid clone fobs. If buying a ferrari key fob from eBay, verify it’s not a clone before purchase.
Programming Your New Ferrari Key Fob: The Master Key Requirement
Another crucial piece of information is the necessity of a ‘different red master key’ to add an extra black fob to your set. The immobilizer system’s ‘learn mode’ is activated only by using a ‘different master’ key with a ‘different code’ than your existing red master key.
The process involves programming your car to recognize the borrowed red master key along with the two black fobs. Then, you repeat the process using your original red master key (which is now considered the ‘new master’ by your car) and the same two black fobs. This ensures your car recognizes your original master key and the new fobs. The borrowed red master key is then returned.
Therefore, you’ll need temporary access to another red master fob and its associated PIN. This might require a favor from a Ferrari-owning friend. Immofixer was also able to assist me with this, providing the necessary red master fob and PIN at a reasonable cost.
While it might sound complex, the process is straightforward once understood. Immofixer offers helpful videos on their website (https://immofixer.com/) that demystify the procedure. A quick call to them is also recommended; they are known for their helpfulness and willingness to discuss ferrari key fob programming.
Now, I have a complete set of two as-new keys and three fobs, and I am extremely satisfied with the result.
