Hello all,

I’ve returned to the forum now that I’m on my second 4runner! Picked up a 01 limited 4x4 with 220k from the original owner. I like it but it has a few small issues. One thing that just started yesterday- the key feels normal when inserting the key. Then when I go to turn the key clockwise for accessory/run/start the key becomes COMPLETELY loose and is so loose it could fall out going uphill, there is nothing holding it in. It can be removed and places back in without issue. Then when I shut off the car/return the key to off position there is the normal grip/pressure that holds the key secure.

Any ideas? Happens with both my keys, and it was working 100% fine then randomly one day was 100% loose. I found tons of threads for stuck keys but haven’t seen a single thread for loose keys.

Mine does it too. You can easily pull it out of the IGN switch while it's running.

A new key or a new ign cylinder rekeyed to your existing might be the solution.

The ignition key lock/tumbler most often wears out because many put all their keys on one keyring.
Three pounds of keys hanging down, swinging back and forth wears it out.
Each of my vehicles has ignition, possibly door, gate and house key. All my other keys are on other keyring(s).

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My problem was fixed by getting a new key cut from dealer and removing some wafers (specifically the split ones). Make sure you take your ID with you, bill of any sort which says your address, and title of ownership so you can prove it's yours. I also had heavy stuff on my key which worsened the problem to the point where I couldn't turn the key and was stranded.

UPDATE-

Got a new key from the dealer, it holds secure! However, my 4runner won’t start!! It just cranks endlessly but won’t actually start with the new key. The second I plop in my old loose key it starts in 1 second. Any ideas?

Gotta get the chip in the key programmed. I believe there is a way to do it without the dealer but I don’t remember the process (I think it’s similar to programming a new fob). Dealer should be able to do it though.

Turns out they gave me the non-chip key so they’re ordering the correct one then I’ll have it programmed. Should be all set thanks for the fast replies everyone!

Lets hope you have the RIGHT key currently. There are 2 ways a key can be programmed, one will allow for other keys to be programmed and the other won't. Look at that blinking red "Security" light next to the rear window switch... if you put the key in and that goes out IMMEDIATELY, you have the right key and no worries. If it blinks for another second or two (might go solid, I forget) ~ you're SOL.... sorry. The "fix" is a $1000 body ECU from Toyota (though my dealer shows it at $675 for online order), or lucking into the Right locksmith with the Right tools to reflash the chip on the board.

It can be DIY, but you'll have to search for that info yourself (searching is the easiest part, it gets substantially more complicated from there).

Only got one chip key from PO when I purchased mine.. gunna check this when I get home, thanks for the info lol..