Programming a new Key

Hello TW,

If a fella has just one good key, is there any risk to that good key when doing a DIY program a new key?

Looks simple enough https://youtu.be/mEhLJibjiGc?si=ZEFFGMDDsi9EhJwK

Local locksmith quoted me the low low price of close to $200

 

I got a local guy program a switchblade key for $100cdn. I tried to do it myself without any luck.

 

That's nuckin' futs, they're both quick & easy, and can be done with a relatively basic scan tool. (Contrast with my wife's Subaru, which my midrange Autel claims it can program but can't... and neither can a 5-figure Snap On)

As far as risk, it won't enter program mode without a key that's stored, and I can't imagine they'd put an 'erase stored keys' sequence in there that'd erase the stored key you used to enter program mode. Whether it actually works at all for you though... pretty sure 2nd gens had at least 2 immobilizer systems (dot or G stamped) if not more I'm not remembering, wouldn't surprise me if they'd removed the no-tool functionality at some point.

 

Thanks @fb40dash5 I see a small dot on the metal, close to the plastic. So, I’m a member of the dotted key club. Good to know. I might have ordered the wrong key without that tidbit.

 

The dealership will make a new metal key, computer generated, based on the VIN. I've had a bunch made, for a 2007 Tacoma, so I have several spares. $10 each at the dealership.

 

I’ll give them a call. I think they charge more than that to get in the door

Thanks for the tip!

 

The 2.7L doesn't use a chipped key that's why it's much cheaper.

According to service info a scan tool and at least 1 master (black) key is required to register additional keys but you can try the DIY way first.

 

Thank you @Dm93

I’ve got a very good mechanic that can probably do it. Assuming the dealer isn’t cost effective, I’ll let my mechanic do it.

If I had 2 good keys, I wouldn’t hesitate to DIY it. If I toast my one good key, it’s a long walk home.

 

I don't think you are programming the key itself, you are programming the vehicle to accept that key's code. Unless you erase everything (not sure that can be done without a scan tool), your original key shouldn't be affected. That said, I think there are limited memory slots for keys, so once those are filled up it may not accept an additional key and you'd need a real scan tool to clear things out.

I went through this with a used Corolla we bought for my daughter that only came with one key. Went through Tom's Key but didn't have them cut the key, and then had a hell of a time finding someone that would cut them -- they would only cut a key that they sold. Programming worked fine, just couldn't use the keys until they were cut. I ended up spending about what I would have to just have a mobile locksmith take care of it.

 

Wow, that sucks on the Corolla key. I agree the key itself is not getting programmed. I'll still probably let my mechanic do the work. I doubt he will charge much. I have a bunch of other stuff for him to attend to anyway.

I haven't called the dealer yet, but will.

 

My 2015 has a G-chip key. I had a local locksmith cut and program an eBay switchblade key (a few years ago for less than half of your quote, @Knudsen). So now I have three keys that’ll start the truck.

I also have a simple flat metal key cut by the dealer to my original VIN/key number. That one cost notalot and it’s a convenient backup to simply unlock the doors. (It’s unchipped, of course, so won’t start the truck.)

 

That unchipped key is a good idea. I might do that and hide it in the frame.

 

This! You are programming the truck to the chip in the key not programming the key to the truck. The original key will not be affected. IIRC the truck can accept 3 keys.

 

Yoda: Read must you first, thread entire.

I would even venture to say it’s not even programming the truck. Just entering a number in a small database.

 

Fair enough, programming is probably overstating the action. No real programing of anything going on. The truck simply registers the key's chip signature to it's authorized key table....