DIY Key reprogramming

[IanH]

Originally Posted by DenverCruiser

So why would it be any harder than to 1. Get key cut. 2. Swap key remote from one old busted shell to new shell?

yes that works.
I brought new shell and two of what i believe is a used core in a new shell.
Got them cut.
Changed my old core into new shell.
programed both new "used" core in new shell.
didn't have an issue with the 4 max immobilizer, it must just overwrite the other keys.
BTW got my shell with Lexus L and complete key / cores from remotes4less.com
they shipped me the RX300 by mistake, got an RMA and shipped back, they sent correct ones very fast. no problems reaching them by phone.
and they work fine.

[dewsc]

Thanks for this tread is was great and very helpfull.

[Street Sniper]

Ok, here's one for you...

I bought the car used and it came with a non-remote key that I use to start the car and a blank remote key that I use as the remote. Upon inserting the cut key into the ignition, the "security" light stays lit for a couple seconds and goes off. Obviously, this is a valet key. When I try to insert the blank into the ignition, it will only go in about 1/2" but the security light goes off immediately.

Does this mean that I have a blank master key and I just need to get it cut? Is that even possible? To have a blank master?

[IanH]

Originally Posted by Street Sniper

Ok, here's one for you...

I bought the car used and it came with a non-remote key that I use to start the car and a blank remote key that I use as the remote. Upon inserting the cut key into the ignition, the "security" light stays lit for a couple seconds and goes off. Obviously, this is a valet key. When I try to insert the blank into the ignition, it will only go in about 1/2" but the security light goes off immediately.

Does this mean that I have a blank master key and I just need to get it cut? Is that even possible? To have a blank master?

Welcome to Lexus Key Hell !!!

Yes it sounds like you have the master remote with the transponder chip in a new shell.
So yes just get it cut.
But if you really have a Valet key you should get it cut at a Lexus dealer or someone else from the key code because the Valet key normally doesn't open all the locks, however since I dont have a valet key I cant be sure about this for the IS300....anyone else comment ?

What i am getting at is not to copy the Valet key onto your new key

[IanH]

And get a new master and get it programed before you have a problem with your one master module.

[bswizzle]

What if I wet my key and my only transponder is not working can I buy one from eBay and reprogram it my self.

[REDL1NE]

Very informative, thank u. Bookmarked!

[black86]

alright i found i found the directions for the transponder (engine immobiliser). as far as i know both the wireless and transponder programming, the following instructions, only work for 02-05 (1st gen) is300 WITH a working master key.

heres a post to do the "Wireless Door Lock Control Programming" http://my.is/forums/4020231-post30.html

i had to use these instructions on two ocassions
deleting all existing keys. so no one else can unlock using the wireless, and no one can start it. then added the new/existing keys.

also vald_a had a way to further enhance the stock security system. you have to pull out the driver side door/window control switch and either cut or de-pin a green/black wire. by doing so, this activates the stock alarm even if someone manually opens the car (ie, the key that was deleted but can still physically open the car) but they cant drive away!

[admanc]

I called my Lexus dealer a few months ago to ask about getting some new keys cut for my car. They quoted me $200+ for each key, including the cutting and the labor of programming them. I went online and saw this thread, went to e-bay and bought two new keys for $60 each. I took them to the dealership and had them cut the keys for $18 each, went home and programmed them to my vehicle. It took a couple of tries for each key, but they both work great now. All in, it would have cost me over $400 at the dealership, but this way, I'm only out $156. That's a big difference I can be happy about. Thanks very much to the original poster who provided these directions!

[da69cote]

AWESOME thread very helpful! saved me some coin on getting a new key reprogrammed! THANKS A MILLION.

[macktownboi]

Originally Posted by 410IS300

Remote Programming

6. Put key into ignition. Turn to "ON" , turn off and remove.
7. You will see the door locks cycle by themselves.

For this step, what ifi order a used key with remote, to program just the remote. will it work? Meaning the used key won't be able to switch the ignition. How can i just used it was a wireless remote? Like the other toyotas and hondas...

[ryan555]

anyone tried bypassing the immobilzer? so you dont have to program keys, and just start the car without the chip, and use an aftermarket alarm for opening the doors and popping the trunk?

[217IS300]

Hi, i am new to this forum. I own a 2004 Lexus is300 and i bought it used not to long ago. the owner of the car did not have a remote key. he didn't even have a master key (black with lexus logo) he only gave me a Grey key with no remote this key cant open the trunk. i have a cut key in a square shaped holder in the car cabinet. it has a code on it. i went to lexus dealership and they want to charge me $225 for a new keyless entry master key. i would like to know if this is the easiest thing to do? or if there is any alternatives? i live really far to any lexus dealerships...

[SrRaV1981]

with out an original master key you don't be able to program anything your self. Maybe some one else can chime in and suggest a cheaper way to get it programed.

[IanH]

x2
Welcome to Lexus Key hell !!!
I have a 2004 as well, and I guess I was lucky i got one busted up master key held together with glue with mine.
To program more keys to start the car you must have a master key, IE this has a transponder that allows you to program other transponders. Lets call this a master transponder since its in the Master Key.
Since you have a 2004 its my understanding this can be made by a dealership from your VIN number.
So
1) you have to buy a new master key from a dealership, good news is that they don't need your car or key to do it. Maybe they will make one and mail it to you. you can fax your ownership documents and this should work, and you can shop around for the best deal.
My understanding this can be any master key, with or without remote.

2) Once you have this new master key you can buy a used remote/transponder in a new shell, for about $80 or less, and program yourself !!!! add cutting, and you have a new spare for about $100 !!!

Read the instructions for programing the remotes, I don't remember if you need a working remote or not. This will be the deciding factor for what type of key you buy from the dealer.

BTW the remote has a trunk button on it, so that's all i use to open the trunk.