I got these, don't know if they will help but oh well worth a shot
2 For 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 Toyota 4 Runner Ignition Chip Car Key Transponder | eBay
(I don't know why, I already have two FOB's... oh and I now understand that FOB is the key itself and the remote is just that, the remote. Internet can be confusing sometimes, I apologize.)
* Edit: I just read go get a key cut at Home Depot. No FOB. I'm fine with that! Anyone experience this?

OK well I learned that I do indeed have a master key. If you insert the key and the red security light quits flashing, then you have a master key and it is not an immobilizer issue. That is actually a relief! So on to the rest of the checklist. Hopefully this thread helps others in the future, that is why I am posting updates.

Cleaned the MAF, still no go, no codes... what would be the next step?

Did you ever try as suggested spraying some starting fluid in the intake/throttle body to see if it will try to start?

If it does then your issue is no fuel being delivered, so maybe bad fuel pump.

I completely forgot to mention that. Yes my friend sprayed starter fluid directly into the TBI while I turned the key, and no go. Can someone show me (under driver's side rear seat) which plug is which (pump and sending unit)? And I am having trouble figuring out how to disconnect the one closer to the passenger side, what is the trick if I have to drop the tank? Gonna make sure it is getting a signal before going through all of that. I checked the fuse, it was fine, replaced it anyways.

Did you check for spark?

Have you pulled the plugs to look at their condition? AKA dry or fuel soaked……..

If you sprayed starter fluid and it didn’t run then either you have no spark or the plugs are fouled.


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When spraying the starter fluid, it almost sounded like it was "trying". Very briefly, but it did that a few times. I'm just gonna give it a full tune-up at this point I think?

Tuneups are a wonderful thing. Especially if you’ve never replaced spark plugs.

The 97 limited I bought with 125k miles still had the factory plugs. The gap erosion was so bad I couldn’t believe there were no missfire codes.


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My 2002 sr5 doesnt have a smart key? do you have the LX model? didnt think 3rd gen have that. maybe LX models do?


I agree is sounds like a security issue. since you have no codes and it ran just fine before I doubt anything is going on. The spray should get a few fires if they are sparking.

The fuel pump is easy to hear just get in the car first and turn the key to on, you canhear the fuel pump prime, If your worried pop the fuel door and undo the car and have someone listen there. you will hear it.

Like others have said if you need proof if its sparking or not, pull a plug and keep it plugged into the coil and hold it to the ground terminal or any metal on the engine. crank the key you will see spark or not.

I have a cheapo spark plug tester Amazon.com