Threedom Key Fob Review

Turboencabulator

Well-known member
🪙 Founding Member
Joined
Jul 20, 2021
Messages
390
Reaction score
1,414
Location
Cloud 9
Current Rides
2022 Jeep Rubicon 392 1972 VW Super Beetle
1st Mod! :) (NOTE: I bought this product with my own money so all opinions here are my own independent thoughts)

After driving my 392 for a few weeks I found the key fob less than ideal. The two main problems are the design of the key switch blade button that causes it to open accidentally in your pocket, and the sheer Size.
Here are a few of my favorite size pics to illustrate that point:
Screen Shot 2022-03-10 at 12.01.01 AM.png


There are 2 key fob replacement options I found; the AJT design key fob cover ($38) and the Threedom key fob housing ($43). Here they are side by side for comparison:
jjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjj.jpeg

Just based on wanting the smallest size possible I went with the Threedom Model M in black with "smooth" texture. Here is their full lineup, they also come in color. (Note: only the Model S+ incorporates the door key into the key fob design)
Screen Shot 2022-03-10 at 12.18.35 AM.png

I really like the size of the Model M, it truly is about as small as you can make it without changing the OEM circuit board. The fit and finish is excellent and best of all it is Made in Minnesota! 🇺🇲 By Jeep guys! :)(y)
I had to dismantle the OEM Jeep Fob, that was easy, a few T6 screws (they even sent along a free T6 driver) and you're in. Now the hardest part, removing the darn RFID chip. That sucker is in there tight! I had to cut a few relief cuts to help it out, be careful and don't damage it.
IMG_2250.JPG

Next I removed the roll pin and drilled a 3/32 hole through the exposed shank. I plan on keeping my door key tucked in my wallet. The small 3/32 hole allows me to attach it to my keychain if the key fob ever fails. This allows me to manually unlock the door, you then touch the RFID chip held inside the non-working key fob to the START button and the Jeep will start right up. Now you can drive to the store and replace that dead CR2450 battery you've been meaning to replace for weeks :ROFLMAO:.
IMG_2251.JPG

With everything removed you can assemble the new key fob. The RFID has a small pocket it tucks into and it's a clam shell design with 1 screw (included). It's identical to the OEM screws so if you ever loose it you have 4 spare screws. This thing is very precisely made. This is just good practical engineering done right. Obviously they tested it and have refined their design.
IMG_2254.JPG

It's not "water proof" but with a little dab of silicone I am sure that would be easily rectified. I think they could incorporate this into the design in the future. Now that its all buttoned up how does it compare? They say it's 30% smaller but its much thinner so I would say 50% smaller is more accurate:
Screen Shot 2022-03-10 at 2.50.27 AM.png

It has a really nice feel in the hand. I like the little indent on the bottom to index your trigger finger. Also even in "smooth" finish there is enough texture to make it "non slip" enough for me. As far as the backup key, I store that in my wallet then I can alway just wind it onto the key ring to give me the leverage to open the door manually if needed. I added the Apple AirTag to keep this guy from getting lost, along with the Belkin AirTag Case and a carbon fiber film to the back. It you have an iPhone it is worth checking the AirTag out, they make finding your keys easy.
Screen Shot 2022-03-10 at 1.22.07 AM.png

All and all I am super happy with this new fob and wanted to share my experience and help anyone else who is tired of the OEM Jeep fob.
 
Last edited:
Hilarious "before" photos, but most importantly, excellent writeup/review. Thanks very much for taking the time to document your process. I'll definitely be looking into this once my jeep is here!
 
Yes, I’ve experienced the switchblade key of the Jeep fob opening in my pocket many times. Really poor design.
 
Not the same as a new FOB, but a quick easy fix to the key popping open is just a piece of black electrical tape along that entire side where the key comes out. Has worked great for me for 5+ months now.
 
Thanks for the excellent review! I'm not thrilled with disassembling one of two FOBs so maybe I will get one more. Anyone checked the price on that?
 
Not the same as a new FOB, but a quick easy fix to the key popping open is just a piece of black electrical tape along that entire side where the key comes out. Has worked great for me for 5+ months now.
I've done the exact same fix my with my fob, black electrical tape along the side of the fob where the key pops out. Has not happened since.
 
Thanks for the excellent review! I'm not thrilled with disassembling one of two FOBs so maybe I will get one more. Anyone checked the price on that?
Thanks! I was a little hesitant to take apart one of my two keys also. However, after taking it apart it was clear that you can easily put it all back together if you change your mind. The only tricky part was taking out the RFID because of the potential to damage it in the process.

By the way If you happen to have the MOPAR Max Care warranty it covers 3 free key fobs, here are the rules:

KEY FOB REPAIR/REPLACEMENT
Provides coverage for up to three (3) key fob repairs or replacements (with a total maximum coverage benefit of $600). Key fob coverage is available even if this component is not operable or recoverable.
 
Last edited:
Going to have to grab one of those IF my Jeep ever shows up….

Nice find @CBH !
 
1st Mod! :) (NOTE: I bought this product with my own money so all opinions here are my own independent thoughts)

After driving my 392 for a few weeks I found the key fob less than ideal. The two main problems are the design of the key switch blade button that causes it to open accidentally in your pocket, and the sheer Size.
Here are a few of my favorite size pics to illustrate that point:
View attachment 3671

There are 2 key fob replacement options I found; the AJT design key fob cover ($38) and the Threedom key fob housing ($43). Here they are side by side for comparison:
View attachment 3684
Just based on wanting the smallest size possible I went with the Threedom Model M in black with "smooth" texture. Here is their full lineup, they also come in color. (Note: only the Model S+ incorporates the door key into the key fob design)
View attachment 3674
I really like the size of the Model M, it truly is about as small as you can make it without changing the OEM circuit board. The fit and finish is excellent and best of all it is Made in Minnesota! 🇺🇲 By Jeep guys! :)(y)
I had to dismantle the OEM Jeep Fob, that was easy, a few T6 screws (they even sent along a free T6 driver) and you're in. Now the hardest part, removing the darn RFID chip. That sucker is in there tight! I had to cut a few relief cuts to help it out, be careful and don't damage it.
View attachment 3675
Next I removed the roll pin and drilled a 3/32 hole through the exposed shank. I plan on keeping my door key tucked in my wallet. The small 3/32 hole allows me to attach it to my keychain if the key fob ever fails. This allows me to manually unlock the door, you then touch the RFID chip held inside the non-working key fob to the START button and the Jeep will start right up. Now you can drive to the store and replace that dead CR2450 battery you've been meaning to replace for weeks :ROFLMAO:.
View attachment 3681
With everything removed you can assemble the new key fob. The RFID has a small pocket it tucks into and it's a clam shell design with 1 screw (included). It's identical to the OEM screws so if you ever loose it you have 4 spare screws. This thing is very precisely made. This is just good practical engineering done right. Obviously they tested it and have refined their design.
View attachment 3680
It's not "water proof" but with a little dab of silicone I am sure that would be easily rectified. I think they could incorporate this into the design in the future. Now that its all buttoned up how does it compare? They say it's 30% smaller but its much thinner so I would say 50% smaller is more accurate:
View attachment 3687
It has a really nice feel in the hand. I like the little indent on the bottom to index your trigger finger. Also even in "smooth" finish there is enough texture to make it "non slip" enough for me. As far as the backup key, I store that in my wallet then I can alway just wind it onto the key ring to give me the leverage to open the door manually if needed. I added the Apple AirTag to keep this guy from getting lost, along with the Belkin AirTag Case and a carbon fiber film to the back. It you have an iPhone it is worth checking the AirTag out, they make finding your keys easy.
View attachment 3685
All and all I am super happy with this new fob and wanted to share my experience and help anyone else who is tired of the OEM Jeep fob.
TurboE, thanks for this post.
Do you ever use an RFID or faraday cage for your keys? Would be curious what, if yes…
 
TurboE, thanks for this post.
Do you ever use an RFID or faraday cage for your keys? Would be curious what, if yes…
I haven’t sad to say. I defiantly see how someone could spoof your key fob and steal your 392 out of the driveway. I think the Faraday cage/bag would be an excellent countermeasure. I was thinking about incorporating a home-made Faraday cage into the drawer in our entryway table that we keep all the car keys inside. If I were a car thief it makes sense that I would try and strike quickly after everyone had gone to bed by cloning a key left near the primary house entrance. If the keys were RF protected then I would probably move on, and try a weaker target.
Have you tried a RFID/Faraday cage/bag?
 
I solved the “key popping open” issue with this very thin (.8mm), realtively inexpensive ($10.98) key fob cover which protects the button from being inadvertantly activated. In fact, I now have to use my fingernail to press directly down on the button to depress it enough to pop the key out. Below is the Amazon link:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B083L94W62/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=
TurboE, thanks for this post.
Do you ever use an RFID or faraday cage for your keys? Would be curious what, if yes…
I use the same key fob cover you mentimned and like it alot. I did get the faraday cage pouches too. I tested right next to the door handle and it does work. I use it fo my Audi now also. Put the keys in pouches at every night and if we stay at a hotel or something.
Faraday Bag for Key Fob (2 Pack), TICONN Faraday Cage Protector - Car RFID Signal Blocking, Anti-Theft Pouch, Anti-Hacking Case Blocker (Carbon Fiber https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MDF5TX9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_cfcqReMk3UxiD
 
Appreciate all the options provided. My solution, rubber band, faraday cage bag, and Ravelco kill switch. I use the faraday cage bag all the time, even when driving to prevent capturing my RF signal from someone on the hunt.
 

Attachments

  • KeyFob392.JPG
    KeyFob392.JPG
    132.9 KB · Views: 100
Great write up!

I'm dealing with that monstrosity of a FOB + an aftermarket FOB.
Velcroed together and tucked in my pocket, everyone thinks I'm excited to see them!
This has made rest areas & truck stops a bit awkward.
 

Attachments

  • 20220426_074142.jpg
    20220426_074142.jpg
    115 KB · Views: 94
  • 20220426_074219.jpg
    20220426_074219.jpg
    136.4 KB · Views: 98
Great write up!

I'm dealing with that monstrosity of a FOB + an aftermarket FOB.
Velcroed together and tucked in my pocket, everyone thinks I'm excited to see them!
This has made rest areas & truck stops a bit awkward.
Maybe JEEP should offer a holster for this monster fob....but then you might have to deal with “Open Carry” laws in some states. :LOL:
 

Create an account or login to comment

Join now to leave a comment enjoy browsing the site ad-free!

Create account

Create an account on our community. It's easy!

Log in

Already have an account? Log in here.

Trending Topics

Back
Top