sdwtchlvr

iTrader: (1)

We need an additional key for our 2002 RX 300. We are aware of the cost of keys from Lexus but are there any alternatives? I know these keys are quite advanced but any suggestions would be welcomed. Thanks.

new2lexus2

I just did 3 keys, all masters (1 for 01 RX300 and 2 for 04 LS430). I got keys off of ebay for 12.99 each shipped from carkeysolutions. All worked just fine.

Call several local locksmiths to find one that has the special laser cutting machine. The place I went to was recommended to me by a different locksmith. They cut from either the key code or from the key itself (machine cuts to original specs). My cutting was $25 per key.

You should be able to program the new key chip to the car on board following a series of steps in other posts (I can't find my printout!). I know I programmed the 01RX key myself, but the 04LS430 needed to be done by computer...locksmith did that as well.

So, call around...I had key cutting quotes ranging from $15 (not guaranteed) to $50 (with laser cutting machine).

new2lexus2

Here is a link for programming. I just got a transponder key and the key procedure worked fine.

http://www.lexusownersclub.co.uk/for...showtopic=9509

bufferdan

Master keys with the electronic internals are no cheaper than $80 each on ebay. None of these keys are "laser cut". Thats just a scam everyone makes up to charge you more money. I paid almost $40 to have my first lexus key cut locally until i found a locksmith that cuts them for $5 each and have had 3 different lexus keys cut by him

new2lexus2

You are right they are not "laser" cut, that is just the term used for the machine that recognizes the "cut" based on either the key code or an actual key and then uses the OEM computer stored specs to cut the key. I only purchased the uncut-transponder key blanks on ebay and then had them cut at a local locksmith.

The lowest cost locksmith I found would cut by copying the key directly, but would not guarantee it would work since the copy would be affected by the quality of the original. It probably would have worked just fine based on your success, so that is really good info (I wish I had come across a $5 locksmith, would have been worth it to try!). Given the relatively low cost of blank transponder keys from various sources, the cost risk is pretty small.

sdwtchlvr

iTrader: (1)

Does anyone have a link to a good place to buy a spare transponder key? Or are they all the same on bay? Spending $80 is fine, I just want to make sure I'm buying the right key. Responses by pm are fine if this sort of thing is not allowed. Thanks