LS - 3rd Gen (2001-2006) Discussion topics related to the flagship Lexus LS430

Bad Transponder Key Coil?

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Old 05-26-23, 09:41 AM
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Raven01750
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Default Bad Transponder Key Coil?

Has anyone ever experienced this failure? Trying to figure out why I cannot unlock the car with the key fob more than a foot away from the door. So, I was wondering what the symptoms might be. Thanks.

Paul
Old 05-31-23, 08:05 PM
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LS430Jim
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Hi Raven

Do you happen to have the Smart Access key?
If so - You should notice the fob is blinking when in proximity of the car.

If you do not - I would advise trying a new battery in the key fob before ruling out any issues with the car.

I know that there is an oscillator (?) with an antenna in the rear bumper that is used for long distance. Try to ensure there is no water damage in the lower right hand side of the trunk where there's a variety of components.

Best of luck
Old 06-03-23, 05:25 PM
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Raven01750
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Thank You LS430Jim. Sincerely.

So I was/am chasing a problem with the locks not working with the key fob unless I was right next to the front door.

I "assumed" that it had to do with the key coil on the ignition switch. But I was wrong as someone on the SC Forum was kind enough to educate me about how the SC's have their located in the rear view mirror.

Then I looked at a section of the Wiring Diagram Manual and realized there is a section on "Wireless Door Lock Controls" which somehow I had previously overlooked. Probably because I was focused on the key and the immobilizer circuit. But anyway, there is a module in either the passenger side of the trunk or the rear pillor of the car called the "Wireless Door Lock Control ECU" that is what receives the signal from the fob. Its inside on the Camry and I assume it is for the GS also. Not sure about the LS because I don't own a set of service manuals for them since I sold my LS400. But I assume it is the module inside the trunk, passenger side, below the taillight. The part has been discontinued by Lexus but is readily available on ebay. Ordered one for $20.36. I'll let everyone know if this fixes the problem. Thanks.

Paul

Last edited by Raven01750; 06-03-23 at 05:34 PM.
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Old 06-03-23, 09:16 PM
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LS430Jim
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No problem happy to help.

My thoughts originated from watching this video

I did not know you were referring to the SC.
If it is a LS430 -Be sure to inspect for evidence of water damage or other causes as to why the unit failed (presuming no additional issues)

Best of luck!
Old 06-03-23, 10:13 PM
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Raven01750
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Actually it is my GS430. I have a 2002 SC430 and a 2003 GS430. I had a 98 LS400. I know the new owners who still have it. It's not nearly as well taken care of since they are both retired and on a fixed income in California which has gotten sooo expensive the last few years its rediculas.

But the GS Forum has a lot of younger folks who are mainly interested in modding. And the forum has gotten thin over the last few years since so many of the GS's were trashed.

And the SC forum are a bunch who just Love the car. It's a true classic that is virtually bullet proof if you take care of it. And the forum is great with people who just want to help.

But we all have one thing in common. That 3UZ-FE motor and transmission combo that makes our cars unique. So I peak over here and keep tabs. Seeing if anything interesting is happening. And like this key fob situation, a little extra help certainly doesn't hurt. Thanks again. 😁

Paul
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