Can you guys help this newbie out? I lost my transponder key, so of course I have a spare. But alas my gf cannot find my spare so I am screwed. The dealer says for $2000 they will give me a new ECU and 2 new keys. I cannot and will not pay that much for a 8 y/o car. I see many places on the net that say if I take out the ECU and door cylinder they can make new keys? IS this legit, and how do I take out the ECU?

 

I don't know the right answer, but comb through this thread and you may be able to figure it out. Please post what you find.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-1st-gen-1999-2003/72242-successful-key-transponder-programming.html


This may help too:

http://www.toy-lex.com/cart.php?m=product_detail&p=13

 

I researched the same site. My only personal experience was in making a new master key for a neighbor's ES300, but I've been reading of people using these services over the years. The company mentioned has a phone number, so when you call them and they should be able to tell you how to remove the ECU. I'd be inclined not to remove the lock cylinder. I think some of our sponsoring discount Lexus parts companies can cut keys from VIN number. The electronics and key cutting are two separate issues.