Depends do you have a transponder key?

 

Do you mean the normal remote key used to lock and unlock the car? Yes I have a remote lock/unlock key and an ignition key to start my car.

 

No no no a chip key. Look by the ac controls for a security light

 

It has a flashing security light to the right of the ac controls. Does this mean it needs programming?

 

You can have your original part repaired at UpFix - We save you money on rebuilding your failed electronics! Here is the service link Engine Control Repair Services | UpFix

 

You can have your original part repaired at UpFix - We save you money on rebuilding your failed electronics! Here is the service link Engine Control Repair Services | UpFix

Thanks I’ll look at it

 

Yes the flashing security light means the key has to be programmed into it

 

I read a guide where you press the accelerator and brake pedal numerous times and need the key from the donor car. Does that sound like the correct way?

 

No you have to use a dealer level scanner or a locksmith

 

This ECU is behind the glovebox in my car I think, does it control the engine and the transmission or just the engine?

 

The reason I want to replace the ECU is because of this recall (https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2012/SB-10061736-2273.pdf). Although it is for Lexus GS300 and GS430 my issue is similar. The car performs a hard shift from 2nd to 1st when stopping at a normal pace. It does not do this if I put it into neutral before stopping or if I select '3' instead of 'D' when driving. Although my car also has a slight gear hunting problem between 20-30mph when accelerating and holding the throttle steady between 20-30mph. It also does a hard shift if accelerating from a slow speed of around 20 mph but this problem is less profound if pressing the accelerator harder. Read some posts on Lexus forums where people have had their ECUs repaired and the problem solved. Do you think the issue could have occured in a camry too even though they are different engines/transmission? I have tried other remedies like replacing transmission fluid, checking for bad mounts but that did not solve the problem. The only thing I have not done is ask the dealer to reflash the ECU for a transmission calibration recall.

From Lexus forums: Transmission hard downshift from 2nd to 1st gear feels like getting rear ended - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum Discussion