ECU Reflash - lost transponder key...

[jdw2012]

2 Questions:

1. Does the 2000 Toyota 4runner key fob have a transponder chip in it?

2. What is the cheapest way to get an ECU reflash? I don't want to pay for a tow and $450 at a dealership. I'm in Dallas, TX.

Thanks!

 

[cordrayj1]

2000 Toyota 4Runner - Free Keyless Remote Fob Entry programming instructions, procedures for all automotive vehicles

 

[Qyota]

So, you have ZERO OEM keys? Not much you can do there. If you have valet key, a mobile locksmith is your best bet. Have them come out, flash the ECU (assuming the truck has the transponder key with the immobilizer computer), and cut you new transponder keys. It won't be cheap. $450 is probably about right, unfortunately.

When I went through this, I had an OEM transponder key, but I changed my ECU (the old one was fried). Mobile locksmith came to my house, took my key and my ECU and made them talk nice to each other. Also had him cut me a new transponder key. That was $220, I believe. The key blanks are expensive on their own.

 

[Victor]

I'm afraid there ISN'T a cheap route to take in this...

You will have to replace the ECM with a NEW one, purchase keys, cut them then have it programmed while it's at the dealer.

 

[rjaudi]

The 99 and up Limiteds have the transponder.

 

[jdkilroy]

I would definitely try these instructions with a new transponder key before handing over that much cash to the dealer for 5 minutes worth of programming.


1. Start with key out of ignition, drivers door is open all others closed and
drivers door is unlocked.

2. Insert key into the ignition (Do NOT Turn) and Pull key out.

3. Perform these steps within 40 seconds.
A. Using the power lock switch on the drivers door, perform 5 lock/unlock cycles
starting with lock. Use an even pace and try to go about one cycle per second.
(1Cycle = 1 lock and 1 unlock).
B. Close, then open drivers door.

4. Perform these steps within 40 seconds.
A. Using the power lock switch on the drivers door, perform 5 lock/unlock cycles
starting with lock. Use an even pace and try to go about one cycle per second.
(1Cycle = 1 lock and 1 unlock).
B. Insert the key in the ignition cylinder.
C. Turn the ignition to ON (Do NOT Start) then back to OFF once to program remote
while retaining the orginal remote codes. Twice to erase all orginal codes and
add new remote. Three times to check how many remotes are programmed or
five times to erase all original codes.
D. Remove the key from the ignition.

5. Within 3 seconds the power door locks should cycle automatically indicating successful
entry into programming mode. Return to step 1 if the locks do not cycle at this point.

6. Perform these steps within 40 seconds.
A. Press the lock and unlock buttons on the remote simultaneously for 1 second.
B. Immediately after letting go of the lock and unlock buttons, press the lock button by
itself and hold for 2 seconds. Within 3 seconds, the door locks should cycle once
indicating successful programming. If the door locks do not cycle, or cycle twice.
repeat steps A and B in step 6 as your remote has not been accepted.
C. Repeat steps A and B in step 6 for each new remote.

7. Close drivers door.

 

[Qyota]

How does he get a key if he doesn't have one? You can't program a new key unless you have a master transponder key. That's what Toyota told me when I went through this.