I have a 1998 ES300, and I am planning on upgrading the key to one with an integrated remote. There are a ton on eBay, but some are long blades (like my current key) and others are short. I'm not too experienced with key cutting, so does anyone know if I could get a short-blade key copy of the long-blade I have now? I mean, the actual cut part of the key doesn't extend all the way up the metal anyway, but I don't know if there's something I don't know. Don't want to be burned with a key I can't use!

 

they didn't start using the integrated remote/key all in one until the 2000 model came out. The 97 to 99 still used a separate key and remote. correct me if I'm wrong, but im pretty sure thats how it was. Even if you got the key with integrated remote, I dont't think you can use it in your 98 ES.

 

i have a 96 with integrated remote, short shaft (1 3/4")

 

But does it have the unlock button on the side or the flat part? As far as I know I have never been able to find an integrated remote for the 97-99 gen.

 

button on the edge. I actually prefer this style to the newer ones with the buttons on the flat portion.

 

You're right about the key and remote being separate for the 1998. I was wanting to upgrade to the integrated one, and was wondering if the length of the key mattered. I believe it will work, because I got the programming instructions for the newer all in 1key,a nd my car responded to doing that stuff (like unlocking the door five times, etc..) I just didnt' have the newer key to program. So, since it is obviously programmable, I think the newer key replacement would work. Any ideas on the length of the blade?

 

Your vehicle uses the long blade. You can not use the short blade!

Your key has 8 cuts on it while the short key uses 5 cuts. All of the cuts *may* physically fit on the key but it won't fit into your ignition or your doors.

Just buy a long key. The vehicle responded to the remote programming because the procedure is the same for the seperate fob and the remote key. The electronics inside the 2 remotes are different.

If you want to spend (waste) the money to see if you can get it to work by all means go ahead.

Take care,

Tami

 

Yeah, I have a 2001 and it has a much longer blade on it than our RX330 had. Humorously enough though, both cars will acknowledge the wrong keys in the ignition... I put my ES key into the RX, and the steering wheel tilted and telescoped out to me

 

You need the long blade. Be careful though alot of people say over time that those keys begin tohave problems with them. As far as cutting the key, you will be paying a pretty penny for them. Only a dealership or master lock shop has the authority to cut them, since they are inlaid like they are.

 

grrr....

so it looks like i won't be having much luck there. does anyone know where i could buy an uncut key with the button on the side (like 1992 - 1996)? I know for sure that that key would work on a 1998.

the remote to my car has broken, and i need a replacement!

 

No, that key doesn't have a transponder in it. It may turn in the ignition but it will NEVER start your car.

Take care,

Tami

 

The service technician at the Lexus dealership here told me that the old-fashioned Lexus key with the button on the side would work for my car. It was even listed as a part I could order, but to the tune of $350. Are you sure it wouldn't start the car?

 

If your vehicle is a 1998 ES300 then Yes, I am sure. It will not work.

The old style keys with the buttons on the side do not have a transponder inside. Your vehicle has to have a programmed key in order to start the car. No transponder=No Start.

I have heard so much BS come out of the dealerships it is incredible.

Take care,

Tami

 

Personally, I like the long key because it makes for a great weapon for hi-jacking commercial passenger jets. The point is nice and stiff.