Limited Edition Smart key/fob replacement

SkidPalace

SkidPalace

Member
So I have combed several past threads regarding replacement smart keys for the Limited push button start systems, but I haven't seen any definitive affordable solutions to create a backup.
I want to get a copy so that I still have my originals in case of loss, damage or theft.
I see these blanks on eBay which appear to need key cutting and programming.
So we can get a blank key and fob for $70.
Can a local locksmith cut the key?
Can I use my own Techstream to program the key?
If no, will a local a locksmith be able to program the key or will I need to take it to the dealer?
Thanks.
 
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Did you ever try this or come up with another solution? I'm tentatively closing on a 2013 Limited on Saturday, and there is only one key. I'd like to get a backup, but don't have much interest in paying $400 for one.
 
I have not. I was hoping someone would chime in with report. I thought I recently read that you can program a key yourself with Techstream software and the cable (which I have). So it seems I just need to see if my local locksmith can cut the key.
 
SkidPalace said:
I have not. I was hoping someone would chime in with report. I thought I recently read that you can program a key yourself with Techstream software and the cable (which I have). So it seems I just need to see if my local locksmith can cut the key.
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I did read a thread that outlined the differences between the various "ebay options" - meaning new vs used vs virgin vs _____. I seem to remember that ideally you wanted either new or virgin, because if the key still had a program in from a previous owner, it may not be easily erased except by the dealer.

Unfortunately, my quick search again didn't find it, and I forgot to save that thread.
 
KaBudokan said:
Did you ever try this or come up with another solution? I'm tentatively closing on a 2013 Limited on Saturday, and there is only one key. I'd like to get a backup, but don't have much interest in paying $400 for one.
Click to expand...

If you're buying a used 4Runner and they only have one key, ask them to throw in another fob. I didn't even have to ask and my dealership treated me like a king. Bought mine used and they gave me a total of 3 fobs with keys cut. Excellent service
 
bloodninja said:
If you're buying a used 4Runner and they only have one key, ask them to throw in another fob. I didn't even have to ask and my dealership treated me like a king. Bought mine used and they gave me a total of 3 fobs with keys cut. Excellent service
Click to expand...

Dang, maybe I should have bought used. I bought a T4R new, and got treated like I was buying their first born at a discounted price. Awful experience.



On a related note, here is a thread I read through a while back. It's for the 4th-gen T4R, but is about buying an ebay FOB, getting it cut by a locksmith and programming it yourself. Talks about what to look for in a FOB (same FCC ID), problems with getting it cut (some places won't cut it, some do, some mess up, etc...). Very interesting read.
 
whiteblazer01 said:
Dang, maybe I should have bought used. I bought a T4R new, and got treated like I was buying their first born at a discounted price. Awful experience.



On a related note, here is a thread I read through a while back. It's for the 4th-gen T4R, but is about buying an ebay FOB, getting it cut by a locksmith and programming it yourself. Talks about what to look for in a FOB (same FCC ID), problems with getting it cut (some places won't cut it, some do, some mess up, etc...). Very interesting read.
Click to expand...

You forgot the link. :)

I'm actually buying privately, and apparently this owner only received one fob when he bought the car last year. If it was through a dealer, then yes, I would definitely ask for at least one extra.
 
yes you can program a new fob using techstream.

on a side note, you cannot program a 2014 LE PTS fob to a 2016 Tacoma PTS system.


sucks since I have to carry 2 fobs now.

on the 2016 Tacoma, you can either program it using the new format or the classic format within techstream.

btw I was using 10.20.30.xxxx version.
 
NoDak said:
yes you can program a new fob using techstream.

on a side note, you cannot program a 2014 LE PTS fob to a 2016 Tacoma PTS system.


sucks since I have to carry 2 fobs now.

on the 2016 Tacoma, you can either program it using the new format or the classic format within techstream.

btw I was using 10.20.30.xxxx version.
Click to expand...

Awesome. Do you recommend buying the fob at the dealer or ebay? If ebay, any links to examples? Thanks!
 
rileyb76 said:
Awesome. Do you recommend buying the fob at the dealer or ebay? If ebay, any links to examples? Thanks!
Click to expand...
I bought a used fob through eBay - make sure you get either a new or virgin one. I paid $85 for a "used" virgin-ized fob. (Cleared by the seller prior to sale.) If you buy a used fob with previous vehicle information, I believe you need to reset all the current fobs and then program them all.

I bought the Toyota Techstream cable for $20 off of Amazon. Installed on my Windows 7 laptop using the info in another thread here on t4r. Programmed the fob myself. Programming took about 2 minutes. Total cost $105. Saved about $180 off the cheapest estimate from a locksmith.
 
As long as you have two valid Key IDs and one is a currently registered Master Key (i.e. some keys/fobs that are sold on Ebay or through Non-Toyota sources can be "Clones" in that they duplicate your Master Key's ID; this is a bit tougher on Smart Keys due to the rolling key code, so I am not sure if it applies to Smart Keys) you should be able to use a TIS Techstream to add/remove keys to your vehicle without needing to go to a dealer/locksmith.

The problem comes in if you accidentally delete ALL the IDs and/or have only 1 valid Master Key ID; in that case you will need to have the ECM/Immobilizer "ReSeeded" which requires a dealer and/or locksmith to request an authorization code/program from Toyota and reprogram the modules with new keys.
 
I'm about to purchase a used 2016 LE. The key fobs look like they are from third party. Could someone post a pic of their LE key fob? Might help me haggle the price down a bit.

Thanks!
 
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