Just got a 2002 SR5 and it only had one key. I figured they were the transponder type but after looking the the current key I'm not sure. Were 4 Runners equipped with non transponder type keys? Might have wasted $36 on two transponder blanks. I noticed there isn't a security light on the panel. :shrug:
Ignition Key Style
- Thread starter sabre65
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steezemcqueen
Moderator
Some 3rd gens do have transponders in the keys. Your owners manual should be able to tell you if you do have them.
The manual shows both keys and the key I got with it seems way too light to be a transponder key. Noticed this after receiving the new transponder blanks. I'll get a cheap one cut tomorrow and try it. The dealer gave me an owner's manual packet from another 2002 on the lot but I can't imagine there being a difference. I like the mystery of a used car!
A.Wilson013
New member
A way to check would be to make a cheap copy, and try it. =) Worst case scenario, it doesn't work and you wasted $7. Or if it does work, you save a lot more.
I have a 2000 Limited. Bulky plastic but no dot, so hopefully no transponder. (Hopefully right up until someone drives it away!) I'm going to try a cheap replacement. Forget price, I just don't want that big old fat plastic thing making my keys so huge in my pocket! :biggrin2:
P.S. OK, bring on the "are you happy to see me?" jokes...
awdjunkies
New member
I have a 2000 Limited. Bulky plastic but no dot, so hopefully no transponder. (Hopefully right up until someone drives it away!) I'm going to try a cheap replacement. Forget price, I just don't want that big old fat plastic thing making my keys so huge in my pocket! :biggrin2:
P.S. OK, bring on the "are you happy to see me?" jokes...
Yeah, I have a 2000 LTD as well, my key is bulky and no dot. The original window sticker says, "Anti-Theft system and Immobilizer"
awdjunkies
New member
Hmmm, Here are 2 of my 3 keys(Right one is the Valet key)and neither of them have the hole. 
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Qyota
New member
All models with the immobilizer will have the transponder key. Most limiteds (if not all) had the immobilizer...starting in 1999 I believe. It's important to note that the immobilizer and the alarm are different things. You can have an alarm and no immobilizer, and an immobilizer and no alarm. Depends on the configuration from the factory, and whether you had any dealer-installed options.
Qyota
New member
Ditto.
Ignition Key
Had a couple standard keys made at Home Depot and they work fine. New to the 4Runner and finding out a lot of stuff in the owners manual doesn't match up to my vehicle. Really like the thing. Crawled under it yesterday and lubed the u-joints and slip yoke. Nice having a car that spent it's life in the south. Still has all the paper tags on the under-car components. :zoom:
Had a couple standard keys made at Home Depot and they work fine. New to the 4Runner and finding out a lot of stuff in the owners manual doesn't match up to my vehicle. Really like the thing. Crawled under it yesterday and lubed the u-joints and slip yoke. Nice having a car that spent it's life in the south. Still has all the paper tags on the under-car components. :zoom:
