Hey this is my first post here, this is my first car and my key fob broke, the electric components seems to be fine I'll post photos, but I can't get the car to start with just the key, I tried duck taping the key to the fob to get it to start and it didn't start either. I called a lock smith who said that the replacement fee for the fob without the clicker stuff would be 450. Is there anyway to do it cheaper or by myself? How do I check if the electric component is broken or just if the key is? Anything would help, I'm located in CA if that matters.

Thanks for reading

 

If your taped together key no longer starts the car - you have lost the "chip" that was in the upper portion. Do you have the other missing parts?
That chip was "programmed" to the car and the car will not start without it.

Your choices: Easiest -
Call your local (or any) Volvo dealer. Have them order a new switchblade key from your VIN. The key will come precut and unlock the doors and turn in the ignition. You will have to prove you actually own the car. If that's your only key, tow the car to the dealer or anyone that has a VIDA subscription. Have them program your car to accept the signal from the new key - If that's your only key - purchase and have programmed a second plain rubber handled key so you are not screwed like this again (hopefully).
Your switchblade style key is actually two parts. The remote and the key - it comes apart by removing that visible tiny torx screw in your photo. Not sure if your remote still works - if not simply purchase a rubber handled chip key and have the car programmed to it, and if you want a new remote later on, purchase (and have programmed) the triangle style remote used in earlier cars. I prefer that setup to the bulky switchblade style.

Hardest - dick around buying ebay/amazon stuff, then find someone who can copy the key, then find someone that will attempt to program your key (most won't) or waste time trying other methods to bypass the immobilizer (you can't do it) getting very frustrated in the process.

There is a company that can remotely program your car for a new key using their proprietary software but you have to have access to a Dice unit. There's a couple of threads on swedespeed related to that company (can't remember their name off hand)