Ignition Switch Issue

[zen_runner]

I have a 2004 4Runner and I believe its ignition switch is on its way out.

It doesn't seem like it would be that hard to replace the ignition switch, so I called a dealership to order the ignition switch. The parts guy said that the first thing to try would be to get a new master key made without programming the key. This key would turn the engine over, but not allow the vehicle to start. His reason for this is to see if the key or the ignition switch that is wearing out. If the keys need replaced, that would be a much cheaper fix.

Instead of getting this new master key cut we used our valet key for awhile since it isn't worn down at all. The valet key seemed to work better at first, but after awhile it started having issues starting the 4Runner, as well. I think this means I need to get a new ignition switch.

When I talked to the parts guy he said that if I need a new ignition switch, then I will have to bring it into the dealer to get the ignition switch replaced, get new keys made, and have the techs reprogram the computer with the new key code so the vehicle will start.

Is this true? Is the only way to do this to take it into a dealer (or somewhere else that can reprogram the computer) to have them install the ignition switch and reprogram the computer? Is there no way for me to take care of this issue myself?

 

[blind squirrel]

I assume you can install the new ignition yourself and get a tow to the dealer for programming. You have to tow it in anyway because you can't start it right?

And there I thought parts guys were just order takers, good on him for trying to save you some cash.

 

[KaseyMcc]

I have a 2004 4Runner and I believe its ignition switch is on its way out.

It doesn't seem like it would be that hard to replace the ignition switch, so I called a dealership to order the ignition switch. The parts guy said that the first thing to try would be to get a new master key made without programming the key. This key would turn the engine over, but not allow the vehicle to start. His reason for this is to see if the key or the ignition switch that is wearing out. If the keys need replaced, that would be a much cheaper fix.

Instead of getting this new master key cut we used our valet key for awhile since it isn't worn down at all. The valet key seemed to work better at first, but after awhile it started having issues starting the 4Runner, as well. I think this means I need to get a new ignition switch.

When I talked to the parts guy he said that if I need a new ignition switch, then I will have to bring it into the dealer to get the ignition switch replaced, get new keys made, and have the techs reprogram the computer with the new key code so the vehicle will start.

Is this true? Is the only way to do this to take it into a dealer (or somewhere else that can reprogram the computer) to have them install the ignition switch and reprogram the computer? Is there no way for me to take care of this issue myself?

I assume you can install the new ignition yourself and get a tow to the dealer for programming. You have to tow it in anyway because you can't start it right?

And there I thought parts guys were just order takers, good on him for trying to save you some cash.

I'm not sure if it would work for an ignition switch replacement, but if you have the master key you can order a blank master key (IIRC other members have ordered them (Toyota OEM) from Amazon, had them cut locally, then reprogrammed themselves. If you have a functioning master key, the process can be found on this forum of how to reprogram them yourself. Now, I'm not sure how this would work for a new ignition and if perhaps the new ignition itself would need programmed also, but from what I've read it is not that difficult to reprogram the keys yourself--you just need the master key, another blank master that is cut to match, then follow the process.