Hi all,

As the ttile says, I lost the only key for my runner. I had actually made 2 others that I still have but this was before I knew that there was a chip in the key.

What options do I have at how to get over this problem. My truck is stuck in the parking lot at work, so I need help ASAP. Is there an override on the immobilizer? Also, I have an CarStar auto starter. Is this unit what is causing the immobilizer to work, or is it the lack of the original key?

I know the carstart unit has 2 dip switches to shut it off. Do you think it would start if I shut it off off or will the stock immobilizer still kick in?

Any help is appreciated.

Chris

 

When a transponder key is involved, and you've lost all of them... you are going to have to get the dealership or a sophisticated locksmith involved.

 

I kind of figured that. DO you know what the dealer would have to do? The reason I ask is I don't want to go in there with no knowledge of the subject at all. That is generally when people get ripped off.

 

If you have a chip in the key, which you seem pretty sure of (the reason I ask is because my 2002 4Runner doesn't have a chip in its keys), I guess if your two spares open the doors and turn the ignition but the truck doesn't start, then that's probably a good indicator that you do have a chip in yours.

I know for the carstarter (autostart brand) that I had in one of my other non Toyota vehicles a few years back, I needed to get another key (with a chip) made that stayed in a small black "chip reader" box under the dash. That allowed the car starter to start the vehicle when there was no key chip near the ignition. Maybe you have one of those with a spare chipped key under your dash somewhere too? If so, you could bring it to the dealer and they should be able to make you another one.

If you still have your key code, the dealership can also make you another key using that. Maybe they can do it using the VIN also... I'm not sure.

 

Go to the dealer and give them you vin. They might be able to get you a key. I learned on my 3.4 swap the the limiteds are bad ecu's to get because of this very reason. I had to find and sr5 ecu.

 

A coworker found my keys!!!! Needless to say, I just ordered a new key from ebay in case this ever happens again...

Thanks for the prompt responses guys...

Chris

 

Good to hear.

 

BTW you don't have to go through the dealership. Any good locksmith will be able to make a key to match the immobilizer. We have cars towed in all the time that just need a key with tthe transmitter. They have ways of scanning the ignition and getting a key to match. Usually have one made and the car running in less than 5 minutes.

 

So I ordfered a new key from e-bay. Are you saying I should just go to a regular locksmith to get it cut? I found the programming instructions on here, so once it is cut, I will try to program it myself...

 

I picked up a transponder key off eBay a month or 2 ago and had it cut at ACE Hardware. Programmed it at home with the instructions provided. I'm using it now as my primary key. Keeping the original stored away as my spare and use to get another transponder key cut if needed. ACE didn't charge me anything for the cut either. They apparently charge you for the key and the cut is free. Since I brought in a key they didn't know how to ring me up. Lady was a bit nervous though about cutting a transponder key as she didn't want to ruin an expensive item. Told her to go for it, cost me about $30 shipped.

 

Sweet. Did you use the instructions provided with the key or the ones on this site (in another thread)? If they were provided and I don't get any with my new key, would you mind sharing the ones you got?

I plan on trying the instructions from that other thread, but who knows...

 

Haven't looked at the programming instructions on this site. The seller sent me the instructions when I asked. I should still have it somewhere if you need it. From what I recall it took me a minute or 2 to program.