Worn out ignition or key, need advice for best fix

Okay, so I bought my Tacoma a few days ago and I just realized that the key can be removed from the ignition when the car is in accessory, on, or running. It only came with one key and it looks pretty worn out. It might be a simple fix by getting new keys cut by the VIN, but I'd rather not pay for a new set if I just have to replace the ignition.

All my questions relate to the fact that I want to have one key for doors & ignition.

Here are my questions:

1. Is it even possible to cut new keys based on the VIN?
2. If I buy a new ignition, can I set the tumblers to my existing key?
   
3. (If answer to #1 is "no") If I have to get a new ignition, can I reset the tumblers on my doors to match the new ignition, or do I have to buy a matched pair of ignition/door locks?
   
4. Does changing the ignition have any effect on the engine immobilizer chip in my key?
   
5. What do you suggest I do to fix this issue?

I haven't owned a post-1987 vehicle in many years so this newfangled stuff can confuse me. Thanks!

 

I'm gonna watch this thread for answers as well. My recently purchased 2005 does the same thing, but now I just view it as a perk. I'm able to start the truck and if I forget something inside the house, pull the keys out and leave the truck running while I run back inside.

As far as getting keys cut from the VIN, you can. I had it done on a 1999 Dodge Ram I used to own. I just took the title and a photo ID to the dealer to prove it was mine, and they cut me a few keys.

 

Have your new ignition cylinder keyed to fit your door locks .

Without looking at the lock cylinder it is hard to say but I have seen them rebuilt make a new key all new parts .

It depends what would be the most cost effective for you

I am spoiled because I have Lock Smith friends so I have this kind of work done all the time for a few bucks

 

I had to finance so I have no title, but I'm sure the registration will do fine (once I get it from the DMV in the mail). Thanks!

 

Recently had a similar issue when I purchased a 97 for my kid. Ignition key was like yours and door key was broken. Yes you can get keys cut with the VIN. Take the title to the dealer to prove ownership and it should take 10-15 minutes and about $25 for a set.

 

I called both nearby dealers on Monday and was told $60 per key. Sigh. At least when I do it, I'll probably be good for another 100k miles

 

Nice, stupidly enough I didn't even think about this option. I'll call my locksmith tomorrow and find out what it'll take. Thanks!

 

That is absolutely Fn ridiculous. Pretty sure I paid $12.79 per key at the dealer. Then paid $1.99 per at the local hardware store.

 

The difference may be that yours didn't have a chip.

 

My wife went to a locksmith today that specializes in chipped keys. Based on the answers I got here, I figured that was the best first step. Aaaaaand...

Success! Only the key was worn out, not the ignition. He cut the key based on the VIN, programmed the chip, and we made out $140 cheaper than what the dealer would have charged (they wanted one hour labor to program the chip).

There was one thing he mentioned though: The "beep" you get when you insert the key only happens about half the time, but since that serves no mechanical purpose there's no reason to try and fix it.

Thanks for your help everyone!

 

Had same thing happen today key come out at acc/on. Was trippin when i went came in passenger side radio was on. Been using this key since day 1. Compared it w 2 other unused keys can tell the edges are clearly wore. Thats what causes it to slip out. Could cause battery drain if not paying attention.

 

I recently replaced two door cylinders (reg. cab) and the ignition cylinder. The passenger door cylinder was getting stuck on occasion and the ignition cylinder felt loose. It was under $200 for the new cylinders and two keys. I installed them myself.
I bought the set (no immobilizer) with keys from the dealer.