2011 VW Key Button Guard

thingiverse

I own a 2011 VW Jetta Clean Diesel TDI car that I absolutely love. Unfortunately, its ignition key has become one major annoyance for me. The issue lies with its switchblade design where a small button protrudes and needs to be pressed to extend the actual key. This feature creates a huge problem as any slight bump could cause the key to swing open, which happens even when it's in my pocket. It's been an ongoing irritation that's driven me crazy for two long years now. After researching possible solutions online, I stumbled upon an easy DIY fix that I was able to implement on my own car with surprising ease. To create this solution, all you need is a little PLA (Polylactic Acid) material to glue around the button area of the key using superglue. This added barrier prevents accidental activation. I've attached a file in Sketchup (skp format) so users can modify it as needed for different ignition keys according to their requirements. Detailed instructions are available below explaining how to put this design into practice: **Instructions For Use** 1. First, I printed this keyguard with black PLA plastic matching the color of my existing car keys. 2. The infill percentage is at a full 100%, and it has 0.2mm layer thickness with no additional supports used in its construction. Some 3D printers may need a brim to secure the build onto the plate during printing, while others like mine might not require this extra support feature. 3. Here are step-by-step instructions for installation: * First, take a little bit of super glue and spread it evenly on one side of the keyguard. * Next, line up the guard along the button by facing the side with the glue towards the ignition key, and make sure its taller part faces toward the rear end. * To complete this step securely in place, press firmly while also taking precautions not to stick both parts together during application - doing so would create a huge issue by gluing your finger as well! After that's done successfully, opening up the key functions perfectly.