siddfynch

Hi All,

The title says it all. Inserted the key to my wife's Lexus (2000 RX300) into my car (2009 RX350) this morning, realizing my error after trying to gently turn the key. Thereafter, my correct key would not turn. I never forced anything, find it hard to believe I damaged the ignition. It's got to be something electronic or security related. To complicate things, I got the steering wheel to lock after playing around with enough stuff.

My manual tells me there's an engine immobilizer system. If activated, will this still allow the key to turn?

Here are some things I've tried after searching this forum:

1. Locked/unlocked the driver's door manually with the key
2. locked/unlocked the doors using the key clicker
3. Disconnected the negative battery cable for 20 mins
4. Tried rolling and pushing the car (it won't shift out of park now)
5. Removed the ECU-B fuse from under the hood.

I don't have lithium grease so haven't tried greasing the ignition cylinder yet. But, I really doubt it's a physical problem with the cylinder, seems much more likely its a security effect from putting the wrong key in the ignition.

Any ideas? I only have one key remaining to this car (don't ask....).

siddfynch

Hi All,

Looks like this is fixed. None of the actions in my original post worked, nor did blowing it out with compressed air..

I then went out and bought a tube of dry lube graphite powder. After squirting a shot in the key slot, the key turned on the second try. Apparently it really was a mechanical problem and not an anti-theft precaution.

Fingers crossed....

NVAKeith

iTrader: (1)

Tank

iTrader: (19)

GeneE

Any problems after the dry lube graphite spray?
I'm having similar problems.

mnewxcv

I have heard by using the wrong key, there is a mechanism that prevents starting the car (even with the right key). I forget exactly how to unlock it, but this is not the first time hearing this.

squasher

i have the same problem, did you find a solution? thanks.

Mauser

I had this happen when I tried to start my daughter's RX with the key from my LX. I sprayed some mass air flow sensor cleaner into the ignition switch then vibrated the lock mechanism with an old electric toothbrush. Worked good.

squasher

graphite powder got key to turn a bit, then it broke but WD40 got it out, then mechanic said have it towed to him, date with locksmith. i suspect this is common for lexus (mine 2004) since many owners have more than one of these great cars and now and then grab the wrong key. beware, tag those keys.

Lexus816

The plastic case that holds the metal key blade is cracked. Does anyone know if it is possible to remove the metal blade and put it into a new case? My ignition switch occasionally locks up also. Usually after gigiling the the key it eventually releases.

mandyfig

The key blade is unique to the case. You can move the transponder to a new housing with uncut key. Then you have to go to a locksmith to get it cut. Not bad expense.

squasher

good plan,thanks. got a small collection of duct-taped keys now, look like prison knives.

DennisMik

You can get a replacement plastic shell if that is what you want.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/For-2007-20...43617370ddc9ce

If you want one with a Lexus logo, scroll down on that page.

ilatoi

Hi all ,
This titles said all . Yes , I put wrong lexus key to wrong lexus car . And when put the right one then nothing work , nothing happended , all lock up and black out screen . Nothing moves , even if you want turn on radio or put scanner in , nothing , na da , done .
After a month search on web and friens , and figure it out by myself . Finally , the car turn back on as normal , just like a mirical . And depends how good fate in you or how good luck god loves you .
If you're really get stuck with thi issues , lmk . Maybe you can do same thing like I did . Ciao .