Cost of replacing master key

[Millerad1651]

I already started a thread, but thought this may generate more answers. Found this ad, he says he lost master key and Toyota wants $1500 to replace key and ECU. Is that really whats necessary. I googled it and found varying answers. I have AAA, can a locksmith come out and reflash the ECU and cut a couple new keys? If so, I may buy the whole thing...if not, I'll try and nab some parts.

Thanks

Come and Get It- 99-01 toyota 4runner complete or parts

 

[3rd gen king]

I already started a thread, but thought this may generate more answers. Found this ad, he says he lost master key and Toyota wants $1500 to replace key and ECU. Is that really whats necessary. I googled it and found varying answers. I have AAA, can a locksmith come out and reflash the ECU and cut a couple new keys? If so, I may buy the whole thing...if not, I'll try and nab some parts.

Thanks

Come and Get It- 99-01 toyota 4runner complete or parts

Dudes crazy, my gf lost her keys to her 2007 dodge ram hemi sport and it cost me 135 to have a dude go out there.... And make 2 keys.. The Toyota remote can bought at the dealer for 50 doll hairs and they will usually program it for free (takes like 1 min)

 

[3rd gen king]

And if it can be done to her newer truck it can be done to ours no biggie


Or does your key have a "chip"?

I don't think 98's do

 

[that$pit]

Mean owners key vs valet key?, only difference in those is valet keys have a small cut at the tip that doesn't let you get into the glove box

 

[kegelinanger]

The pic looks like it's a Limited model, if so it has the ignition immobilizer system. This system ties directly into the ECU and cannot be bypassed. Bad news is, our ECU's CANNOT be re-flashed. Therefore, if you lose all the keys, then the entire ECU must be replaced. Good news is, Toyota realized they f'd up with this design, and offers an ECU Replacement Program. If you lose all your keys, they will replace the ECU for free. You have to pay for the installation and 2 keys. I had this done a few months ago and it cost me about $300 for a new ECU installed and 2 new master keys. They only offer this program 1 time for the life of the vehicle, so if the PO already did it he's pretty much screwed. If it hasn't been done, you have some buying leverage. Call Toyota USA and give them the VIN and they can tell you if it's eligible for the program. DO NOT go to the dealership, they will play dumb and have no idea what you're talking about. Get it authorized through Toyota USA first, then call the dealership to set up the install.

 

[Millerad1651]

Awesome, thanks for the info. Its crazy what some people will let the dealership tell them!