Carrying a set of keys used to be simple. A few metal blades on a small ring, easily slipping into your pocket. Fast forward to today, and we’re often burdened with bulky, plastic car key fobs that feel more like carrying a brick than a key. If you’re tired of that pocket bulge, you’re not alone. Enter Jeremy, the innovator behind RACECAR go brrr!, who is taking matters into his own hands, quite literally, by creating miniature key fob conversion kits. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about reclaiming pocket space and streamlining your everyday carry.
Jeremy’s journey into the world of Small Key Fobs started with a personal frustration. “Originally it was just because I was fed up with the massive fob on my own BRZ,” he admits. Owning a 3D printer for hobby projects, he saw an opportunity to tackle this everyday annoyance. The result? A line of slimline key fob enclosures designed to replace the factory bulk with a more pocket-friendly alternative.
Why the Bulk? Understanding Key Fob Design
Modern car key fobs are packed with technology. Inside those chunky plastic shells are circuit boards, buttons, and batteries enabling remote locking, unlocking, and alarm systems. Manufacturers often prioritize a substantial feel and visual design, aiming for a premium experience. However, this focus rarely extends to optimizing for size. Jeremy realized that the core electronics within a key fob are surprisingly compact. By designing a streamlined 3D-printed shell, he could significantly reduce the overall size without sacrificing functionality.
The Trade-offs and Benefits of Miniature Key Fobs
Opting for a small key fob does involve some trade-offs, primarily focused on ruggedness and extra features. Jeremy’s designs, for example, eliminate the physical emergency key blade found in many factory fobs. They also forgo weather sealing and the silicone button interface. Instead, you interact directly with the tactile buttons on the circuit board through the 3D-printed enclosure. While these modifications might not suit everyone, especially those frequently exposed to harsh weather or needing a physical key backup, the space-saving benefits are undeniable.
For many, the advantages of a small key fob outweigh these minor sacrifices. Imagine keys that no longer create an unsightly bulge in your pocket or weigh down your bag. The convenience of a slim, lightweight keychain is a compelling proposition for those prioritizing minimalist design and practicality.
Beyond Subaru: Expanding the Small Key Fob Revolution
Initially focused on Subaru BRZ models, Jeremy’s small key fob project quickly expanded. Customer demand, including his girlfriend’s need for a less cumbersome keychain with both Subaru and BMW (Supra) keys, drove the development of new designs. Now, RACECAR go brrr! offers miniature key fob conversion kits for select BMW and Toyota Supra models as well.
The DIY Spirit and the Future of Key Fobs
Jeremy’s work is not just about selling a product; it’s an inspiration for the DIY community. With readily available 3D printing technology and free CAD software, anyone can design and create their own size-reduced key fob enclosures. This democratization of production empowers individuals to customize everyday objects to better suit their needs. As we move towards ever more compact and integrated technology, the trend towards smaller, more efficient key fobs is likely to continue, driven by both individual creators and potentially, mainstream manufacturers recognizing the demand for less bulky car keys. For those seeking to minimize their keychain clutter today, Jeremy’s miniature key fobs offer a practical and stylish solution, proving that sometimes, less really is more.
