How to Get a Key Replacement For Your Toyota
Toyota key fobs come with transponder chips to ensure your car is secure. They also have batteries that need to be replaced every now and then.
Replacing and reprogramming the Toyota key fob can be expensive. TFS's Key Replacement Protection is one of the latest products it has created to cut down on this expense.
Keys damaged or lost
Since 1998, Toyota has made it an effort to include a transponder chips in their keys for cars and remote fobs. This technology protects your vehicle from hot-wiring and other types of theft. But, if your key or fob is lost or stolen you'll need to get in touch with a professional locksmith or Toyota dealership. This is because a replacement fob or key requires programming using the immobilizer on your vehicle.
If your Toyota key or remote fob starts to fail, it's the right time to replace the battery. To do this, you must open your key fob using your key (Newer models) or an object of strength and thinness at the designated notch, or slot on the inside of the case. After the case is opened, gently lift the circuit board until you can see its battery. Then, replace the old battery with a new one and close the key fob.
The transponder chip may be faulty when the key doesn't start the engine or work at all. If the chips are damaged in any way it needs to be reset. This is only possible at a certified locksmith or dealer, and they will require specialized tools.
In the first models of Toyota automobiles the engine computer was in a position not to be updated with deleted or new keys by using the standard diagnostic equipment. The only option was to replace the engine control computer or in technical terms "reflash" it with new data. This is the same process similar to formatting your computer's hard drive.
The latest advanced technology from Toyota offers additional convenience and security, however it can also increase the cost of replacing a lost or damaged key fob. Toyota Financial Services has launched the Key Replacement Protection to help ease this financial burden. This plan will pay up to $800 of the cost for a replacement key or fob per incident. The plan is available as a separate product or added to your current auto loan.
Lockout Situations
Your car's power door locks are meant to keep burglars and thieves from entering your vehicle, so when they aren't working, it can be a major hassle. There are a few easy solutions to these issues, so you won't be locked out of your car.
If you can't lock or unlock your doors or trunk when you press the buttons on your key fob, it could be an indication that the battery is in need of replacement. This is fairly easy to replace on most Toyota models, and very inexpensive. Find a battery that is compatible with the model of the key fob. Also, be aware of the type of case and the layout of the circuit board placed inside.
Using a thin yet strong tool like your key (Newer Models), a coin or a flat screwdriver, gently pop the case open. You should be able to see a slot or notch on the side of the key fob case in which you can put your tool. After the case is opened, you can locate and remove the old batteries. Take a picture of the design and location of the battery prior to replacing it, and carefully insert the new battery.
It's a good idea, if you lose your key or it is damaged, to duplicate it or to give one to an acquaintance. If you're locked out of your car, they can help you by providing a slim-jim or bring you new keys.
It is possible to reprogram the blank fob yourself however in most instances, you'll need to visit your local Toyota dealership to have the key and fob programmed. This can cost between $200-350 depending on the Hilton Head Toyota dealership and parts specials and so it's essential to be aware of your options. If you don't have a spare key, or your car has been stolen and you're unable to get a replacement, the Key Replacement Protection offered by Toyota Financial Services can help pay for the cost of getting you back on the road.
Lost or Stolen Keys
The key fob on your Toyota vehicle contains not only the car key itself, but also an embedded chip that transmits signals to the cars electronics when you open or start the engine. It can be a challenge and costly to replace your keys in the event that you lose them. Keep your spare Toyota car key in your pocket.
If you do not have a spare, the next best option is to go to an automotive locksmith who specializes in replacing key fobs for a variety of brands. If you have the registration and title of your vehicle they will usually create a key for you and then program it into your car. This is likely to be cheaper than going to a dealership, which may require you to purchase the key and then connect it to the car's electronics.
A third option for dealing with stolen or lost Toyota keys is to check your car's warranty or insurance policy to see whether it covers the cost of a replacement key fob. You may also inquire if the auto service center in your area offers Toyota key replacement and programming services.
A dead battery is the most common reason for a Toyota key fob not working. A new battery for the Toyota key fob can be bought online or in most Freehold stores. It is usually less than $5. You should adjust your key fob before installing the new battery to ensure that the connections are clean, and that the battery is seated correctly. If the battery isn't working then contact your local Galaxy Toyota service department for help.
To prevent the need to replace your Toyota's key fob in the future, think about a new key protection service offered by TFS/LFS and Safe-Guard Products International. Toyota Key Replacement Protection will assist drivers who lost, damaged or had their key fobs stolen by paying for a replacement.
Transponder Chip Issues
Transponder chips are used in certain car models made after 2000 to prevent car thieves from conducting hot wires to the engine. This innovative piece of technology is embedded in a tiny plastic part of the key that appears like a regular physical key. When you insert the chipped key into the ignition barrel of your car, a pulse of radio frequency energy is taken up by a coil which is wrapped around the transponder. The chip then sends an electronic signal to the car that contains a unique serial number. The car's computer examines the number against the one it has stored in its memory and if the numbers are identical the car will begin.
Transponder chips can fail for a number of reasons. replacement toyota key are extreme cold and extreme heat as well as water damage or a damaged car key fob. If you're experiencing one of these problems it is important to call a professional auto locksmith away.
A key fob equipped with a transponder chip is not as durable as a traditional mechanical key, so it's vulnerable to more wear and tear. The buttons could begin to wear out or the electronic components to fail. It is necessary to replace your key fob if you experience this issue, not only the button or two.
In some instances the replacement of a battery could be all that is required. This is an easy and affordable fix that can resolve the issue. You can purchase an updated battery at your local auto shop or online.
You could also try to clean the buttons on your key fob to determine if that solves the problem. Avoid dropping the keyfob on hard surfaces as this can damage internal mechanisms. The submersion of your car key into the water could cause short-circuits to its electronic components, causing it to fail.
If you need a new key fob to the vehicle with a transponder it is recommended that you purchase an original key from an authorized Toyota dealership or an auto locksmith that is reputable. Keys that are duplicates bought from hardware stores won't be compatible with your vehicle because they lack the software necessary to operate it. Often, these keys won't activate your car and can even harm the chip inside the key. A reputable auto-locksmith or your car dealer has the tools and expertise necessary to program a key that has a transponder.