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Forms are new to me. I'm not someone who even knows how to post, but hopefully can find a response if one is provided. We have a 2005 SC430 and our son lost the ONLY key in the yard while mowing. The local dealer gave us a replacement price and it was insanely high. The car is sitting in the driveway and we're hoping hail is not coming anytime soon. I think it can be pushed back into the garage. Worried that if someone responds, I may not know how to navigate this site to see your answer. If you email me, I'll read it. We are definitely up for the challenge of DIY but we don't need to screw up a blank key. Oh please help.
Try a local locksmith that specializes in lost auto keys. Also, talk to AAA (if you are a member) and your insurance company.
I had a new master key made by a locksmith. It cost a lot less than the lexus stealership!
It is much easier to have replacement keys made if you have at least one key remaining. I'd borrow or buy a metal detector and find that lost key if at all possible.
Usually a new master can be made using the VIN of the car and then programming that key into the ECM via Lexus Techstream software.
If you do not have at least one key it may be necessary to clear out all existing keys in the ECM and then reprogram the ECM for the new key. Your Lexus dealer should be able to tell you what they can do and the labor and parts breakdown associated with a new key.
There are some locksmiths that can perform the same function but not all of them can do so. Some will be unable to program the new key and key fob into the ECM and security system. Do not pay until the locksmith shows you both the new key and keyfob remote operation is 100% functional.
And I suggest you get 2 keys for your car to avoid this situation going forward.
This is another example of why folks should not buy cars with just one key. The right time to force the dealer to provide a free second key is at purchase time. If they refuse offer $300 less for the purchase because that is likely what it will cost for a second key and fob.
There are locksmiths that can create a key and program a remote with the right credentials, as long as proper identification is made as to the ownership of the Lexus car on the internet. I have been successful in getting keys/remote key fob this way. Of course the shortest route is going through a dealer. The internet source will cost around $200, maybe equal to a local qualified locksmith, for one set of remote with a key. The complete information such as year, model and VIN will be required, including ownership proof, plus a copy of the driver’s license.
This is where I purchased a reasonably priced 2nd set of Key FOB (with key), quoting from a post in 2017, you can go straight to their website or try the "fleabay" route, they will be in there. I just googled them and made a phone call. I was able to get my 2nd set of Key Fob for my IS and my Daughter’s RX350. Good luck.
Seller was Stu's EZ auto remotes.
I found them on Ebay as they offer a "virginizing" service for our remotes for $15. This allows a previously used fob to be re-used as if it was brand new and never before joined to a car.
I called them and they informed me they also sell the fobs.
To receive a fob I had to send them several photographs of the existing working fob as well as my VIN tag, driver's license and registration.
They also cut a new emergency key from a photo I sent them of the existing emergency key.... and it works!
Using Techstream to add the new key was a 5 minute cakewalk after watching a youtube video. All you need is a laptop, the software and an OBD2 cable.
Like many cars, The sc430 has two safety features in the key. The funny groove cut and more importantly the chip inside the key.
You can get the groove cut at the dealer, but it still won't work on your car because it needs to be programmed into your computer. To do that, you will need to tow the car to the dealer.
An easier way is to find a mobile locksmith. They have a way to cut the groove and program the chip. It is a twenty minute process, but it can be done. When I had it done, it cost $85 plus the cost of a new cut key.
The process is actually really simple, Lexus just puts in a 20 minute wait, so people can't steal your car quickly in a parking lot.
It’s my understanding if ALL keys are lost you have to replace the imobilizer ECU too. The car originally came with four keys, two master keys, one valet key and one wallet or card key. A locksmith with access to Toyota’s Techstream software AND it’s security features may be able to replace AND reprogram a new transponder. The mechanical key is rather inexpensive, but many locksmiths charge >$30 just to cut the blank and that doesn’t take care of the transponder problem.
Your local Locksmith can cut and program the fob if you have the master key. I doubt it if they can do without. I might be wrong, so talk to your local Locksmith.
It’s my understanding if ALL keys are lost you have to replace the imobilizer ECU too. The car originally came with four keys, two master keys, one valet key and one wallet or card key. A locksmith with access to Toyota’s Techstream software AND it’s security features may be able to replace AND reprogram a new transponder. The mechanical key is rather inexpensive, but many locksmiths charge >$30 just to cut the blank and that doesn’t take care of the transponder problem.
oh yeah, Bob. I think that might be right. I had a key to start my ignition and disable my immobilizer.
Even if they cut the groove in the key, it would not disable the immobilize and probably not allow a new key to be programmed.
As for people who think they can use Techstream to program a new key without a master, they can't. (Well at least not the ebay version)
When you try to program a key using the valet key, it requires supervisor approval. If I understand correctly, a code has to be sent from "Headquarters" to the supervisor, who enters it into techstream.
There are multiple versions of Techstream. The highest one allows access to Toyota’s security software. There are very strick licensing requirement for access to it.