Programmable Keys

[Linz Leard]

I have a 2004 Lexus RX330. I have one master key - it starts the car and opens/locks all the doors via the 3-button remote. I also have a cut key that doesn't do anything but open the doors manually. It fits into the ignition, but doesn't start the car because it doesn't have a chip in it anymore, so it's almost worthless unless I need into the vehicle should I lock myself out of it in my driveway or something. I do not have a valet key, nor do I want one; I want another master key.

I've been reading some on the Lexus programmable key thing, and there's a ton of different opinions and experiences. I would generally reason that factory keys are probably best in the word of knock-off keys and no-name keys, but maybe not. The price of another master key with a transponder, cutting and programming is not even close to being inexpensive, so I'm looking for a killer deal or some 100% solutions. Who can shed some real world light on the subject for me?

[Heinz Roy]

We thought lost our second master key to my truck in the field at TWS years ago. I went to a lock smith and they cut and programmed one for less than $60.

As soon as we had it may, we found the one we thought was lost.

Of course.

[Michael McGehee]

Walmart usually leaves the key cutting machine (and transponder programmer) unattended. Program your own when no one is watching.

[Tommy Hendricks]

Most of the time when it comes to programming keys on vehicles, you need to have a scan tool to access the immobilizer registration function for the vehicle, ie, requiring a trip to the dealer who has Techstream software to access it. You already figured out that it's not very cheap for the price of a key, cut, and registration. Aside from figuring out a way to bypass the immobilizer system of the car (which I don't recommend), your best bet is to call up some other places (Heinz mentioned a locksmith) to see if they're able to cut the key/register it to your vehicle.

[Alan Etheredge]

FWIW for the '13+ Ford Escape there's a procedure (key-in, turn on, key-out, next key, etc, etc) that can be implemented by the car owner to reprogram a 3rd key if you have 2 programmed keys. If you only have 1 programmed key ya gotta go to a dealer or locksmith with the programming tool to get additional keys programmed.

Also FWIW, in the instance of the Ford there seem to be plenty of non-OEM dealers / locksmiths offering the programming tool service, shopping to find the best price can help.

[John Redford]

You can buy programable keys on eBay for fairly cheap. Google or go to the Lexus forum and read about the programming procedure.

I have a 2000 Toyota Land Cruiser that has done this successfully.