Custom Car Remote Possible?

Hi,

I wanted to put a remote start in my car, but my remote is one of those switchblade type remotes with the key and the remote all in one. I really like this remote, and don't want to stop using it, and I don't want to carry a second remote, either.

I was wondering if it's possible for a custom circuit board to be made that conforms to the button layout in this OEM remote. Basically, I would purchase the remote start kit, install it, and then take one of the remotes and open it up. I'd take out the circuit board and send it to someone who could transplant the components of it onto a new circuit board that would fit inside the OEM remote and have the buttons be in the same layout as the OEM remote. I'd send an OEM remote too, of course, so that the person can examine it.

So, is this possible, or am I crazy? If it is, where would I start looking for somebody who would be able to do it?

Are you wanting to copy the remote PCB as a backup unit, or include the remote with the receiver unit?
Wouldn't it be easier to photocopy the PCB and make your own PCB?

I'm wanting to use an aftermarket keyless entry and remote start setup with the OEM remote housing.

I'd make my own, but I'm not great at soldering, and with remotes that cost like $50 a piece, I don't want to experiment with it. I'd rather have it done by somebody who knows what they're doing.

I too wanted to be able to start my car remotely without modifying my OEM keyfob, carrying two keyfobs or just using an aftermarket one. My solution was to check the status of the car's lock switchs when the door locks activate. If the locks activate without a lock switch being used it had to have been my factory remote. I use that information trigger my remote car starter and alarm. The whole project will eventually be on my website **broken link removed** but the only thing I have posted so far is a few pictures and the PIC source code.