How to Get a Key Replacement For Your Toyota
Key fobs from Toyota are fitted with transponder chips in order to ensure your car's security. Batteries will need to be replaced on a regular basis.
It can be costly to replace and reprogram a Toyota keyfob. To reduce the cost, TFS has launched one of its most recent protection products, called Key Replacement Protection.
Keys that are damaged or lost
Toyota has been including a transponder in its remotes and car keys since 1998. This technology protects your vehicle from hot-wiring and other types of theft. If your key or fob gets lost or stolen you'll require contact with a professional locksmith or Toyota dealership. This is because replacing a fob or key needs to be programmed with the immobilizer on your vehicle.
Replace the battery in case your Toyota remote or key starts to malfunction. To do this, you'll need your key (Newer models) or an object that is thin and strong to open the key fob. After the case is opened, gently lift the circuit board to reveal its battery. Next, remove the battery from the case and put in a fresh one, then close the case and test the key fob.
If the key isn't starting the engine and is not working at all, it may have a problem with the transponder chip within it. If the chips are damaged in any way, they must be reprogrammed. This is only done by a locksmith or dealer who is certified and will require special tools that are only available to them.
The first Toyota models did not have the capability of updating the computer in the engine with new keys or delete old ones with standard diagnostic equipment. The only solution to fix this was to replace the computer, or in technical terms, "reflash" with new data. This is the same procedure that you use when formatting your computer's hard drive.
Toyota's most recent technology is designed to provide security and convenience, but increases the cost to replace an item that has been damaged or lost. To help alleviate the financial burden, Toyota Financial Services is launching the brand new Key Replacement Protection. This product will pay for the replacement key or fob for up to $800 per event. The plan can be purchased as an individual product or added to an existing auto loan.
Lockout Situations
If your car's power doors locks stop working, you could face a huge problem. They are designed to keep thieves from your car. But, there are simple steps you can take to resolve these issues, so you don't need to worry about locking yourself out of your vehicle.
If you can't lock or unlock your trunk or doors when you press the buttons on your key fob, this could indicate that the battery is in need of replacement. G28 to replace the battery on a majority of Toyota models and is affordable. Make sure you purchase the correct battery for the model of your key fob, and note the type of case it comes with and the way the circuit board sits inside.
Using a thin yet strong tool like your key (Newer Models), a coin or a flat screwdriver, gently lift the case open. You should see a slot or notch on the side of the key fob case where you can insert your tool. After opening the case you can remove and locate the battery. Take a picture of the design and location of the battery prior to replacing it. Then, carefully insert your new battery.
When you lose a key or your keys are damaged, it's usually an excellent idea to have a spare key made or give one to a trusted friend. In the event that you're locked out of your car they will be able to provide you with another set of keys or help you get back into your car with a slim jim.
While it is possible to reprogram a blank fob at home, there are many situations where you may need to go to the dealership to get a Toyota key and fob programmed and replaced. It can cost between $200 to 350, based on the Hilton Head Toyota dealer and specials. It's important to know your options. If you don't have a spare key, or your vehicle is stolen and you are unable to get a replacement, then the Key Replacement Protection offered by Toyota Financial Services can help pay for the cost of getting you back on the road.
Keys stolen or lost
The key fob in your Toyota vehicle contains not only an actual car key, but it also has an embedded chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's electronics when you enter or start the engine. If you lose your keys, obtaining replacements can be a challenge -- not to mention costly. Fortunately, there are some strategies to avoid this, one of which is to keep an extra Toyota key in your pocket in all times.
If you don't have a spare, your next best option is to go to an automotive locksmith that specializes in the replacement of key fobs various brands. If you have the registration and title of your vehicle they will usually make a key for you and then program it into your car. This is likely to be less expensive than going to an auto dealership, where you'll require ordering the key and then pair it to the car's electronics.
A third option for dealing with lost or stolen Toyota keys is to check your vehicle's warranty or insurance policy to determine whether it covers the cost of a replacement key fob. You may also inquire whether the auto repair shop in your area provides Toyota key replacements and programming.
The most common reason for the Toyota key fob not working is a dead battery. A new battery for the Toyota key fob is available on the internet or at most Freehold stores. It is usually less than $5. Before putting the new battery in, you should open up your key fob case and adjust it to ensure the connections are in good order and seated against the battery in the correct way. If it doesn't work, contact your local Galaxy Toyota service department for help.
Consider a new key protector product from TFS/LFS or Safe-Guard Products International to prevent the need for your Toyota key fob to be replaced in the near future. Toyota Key Replacement Protection will help drivers who have lost, damaged or had their key fobs stolen by providing the replacement.
Transponder Chip Issues
Transponder chips are used in some car models manufactured after 2000 to stop car thieves from electrically wiring the engine. This innovative piece of technology is embedded in a small plastic part of the key, and it 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 absorbed by a coil that runs around the transponder. The chip sends an individual serial number to the car. The car's computer compares the number with the one it has stored in its memory and if the numbers match the car will begin.
Transponder chips can fail for a number of reasons. This can be due to extreme heat or cold water damage, a damaged key fob. If you're experiencing any of these problems, it's important to contact an experienced auto locksmith now.
A key fob that has a transponder is less durable than a mechanical key. It is more susceptible to wear and tear. This could lead to the buttons deteriorating, or the electronic components failing. It is necessary to replace your key fob in the event of this problem, not just the button or two.
In certain situations your key might require an entirely new battery. This is an easy and inexpensive fix that can solve the problem. You can buy an updated battery at your local auto shop or on the internet.
You can also try to clean the buttons on your key fob to see whether that resolves the issue. Be careful not to drop the keyfob on hard surfaces because this could cause damage to internal mechanisms. Submerging your car keys in the water could cause short-circuits to its electronic components, causing it to fail.
If you need to replace a key fob by a transponder, make sure you get a genuine key from your Toyota dealership or a trusted locksmith for cars. Keys purchased from hardware stores won't fit in your car because they lack the software necessary to operate it. The majority of the time, these keys don't activate your car and can even harm the chip inside the key. A reputable auto-locksmith or dealer in your car has the tools and experience necessary to program a key that contains transponder.