08 Smart Key Fob Replacement (Again!)

[ebstauffer]

For the first time in 43 years I have lost my car keys -- not misplaced -- LOST. Of course it's when the replacement keys aren't 60 cents (well, there is the $30 laser cut for my 94 Volvo).

After searching here and online and calling the dealer$hip I have ascertained the following:

• Smart key fobs including back hatch button appear to be available on eBay
• This fob is purported to be an OEM fob but it's not identical to those that we rcvd with our Limited (w/ glass hatch). Thoughts?
• The local Indy dealership charges $249 for the fob + $50 for programming
• You cannot self program the fob as you were able to do in the past

My question: if I purcahse a non-OEM fob from an ebay source, will it work and will the dealership program it for me? Do I need to take in my remaining original fob for reprogramming as well?

Thanks!
Eric (whose wife won't let him live this down)

[Flame Red]

All I can suggest is call around and see what every stealership in your area will do as far as using a FOB you supply and what they will charge. The prices do vary a bit I have found. Still it is robbery.

The other alternative is to check with a non-stealership mechanic that specializes in Toyota's and ask if they have the Tech-Tool system so they can program it. It is a long shot as the tech tool is VERY expensive but has been coming down in price recently.

[summerwind]

Try a online dealer store such as http://trdparts4U.com or http://www.toyotaofnashuaparts.com/

You probably will have to call.

You will get genuine Toyota parts at a discounted price.

You will still need a dealer to program it.

For some reason dealers can discount parts they sell via the web but if you walk in the door of the parts department they can't sell the part at their web price. Go figure.

[mike43068]

I have gotten my local dealership to match TRD prices on some items. I have not tried the keys or hitch. But it never hurts to ask. Actually, I ended up paying about the same price locally including tax as what it would have cost me from TRD with shipping.

Originally Posted by summerwind

Try a online dealer store such as http://trdparts4U.com or http://www.toyotaofnashuaparts.com/

You probably will have to call.

You will get genuine Toyota parts at a discounted price.

You will still need a dealer to program it.

For some reason dealers can discount parts they sell via the web but if you walk in the door of the parts department they can't sell the part at their web price. Go figure.

[sirwm]

yep- I had to buy another magic key.

What cost ! What are these car designers thinking ?

[Flame Red]

Originally Posted by sirwm

What are these car designers thinking ?

In this particular case, the designers did a good job on the smart key design IMHO. I agree that $500+ for a friggin fob is ridiculous. That is marketing's work - not the designers. Oh and the stealerships deserve some of that too.

But to blast the designers, the TOYO NANNY NAV SUCKS BIG TIME!!!

[FlyV]

I came across this web site that supposedly sell the fob for $198 and guarantees it works. Ofcourse, it will still need to be programmed by your dealership. This is definitely substantial saving compared for what the dealer charges.
I have not personally used this site but thought I pass this on anyway.

http://www.autotransponder.com/

[dtown40]

My dealer deprogrammed my Highlander's need for a chip key. I can go get any key made for 2 dollars now, and it works fine. Some would argue that the immobilizer is now ineffective, but if a thief wants my car bad enough, he is going to take it one way or another. I've got insurance for that.

[Ralph6410]

Originally Posted by dtown40

My dealer deprogrammed my Highlander's need for a chip key. I can go get any key made for 2 dollars now, and it works fine. Some would argue that the immobilizer is now ineffective, but if a thief wants my car bad enough, he is going to take it one way or another. I've got insurance for that.

I did not know that was an option.. nice to know