rogersmith

1. What battery does the smartkey take? Any instructions on replacing it? How often should this be done?

2. Does anyone have a reliable source for replacement OEM smartkeys? The dealership wants $250 for the electronics and another $100 for the key itself.

Thanks

rogersmith

According to the web, the 2015 LS460L uses a CR2032 battery, obtainable at any CVS, Rite Aid or Walgreens.

Mine though has a CR1632 3 V button.

Junglequac

Battery replacement for the key fob is actually in the owners manual. It really is pretty easy. At least on mine, you slide the button at the top to reveal the key and then use a small flathead screwdriver where they key usually sits (on the I think 2013-2016) and the key will split apart revealing a tray with a small circular battery. Replace it, making sure to orientate it the correct way and that is that.

rogersmith

It was easy. Remove the metal key by moving the locking tab, and sliding it out. Use the key in the slot inside the key compartment to pop the shell apart. Carefully remove the circuit board, note which side of the battery faces toward you, and replace with the new one.

Reassemble, and you're good to go. Since the car won't start without it, I think I'm going to replace the battery yearly.

comotiger

My St. Louis dealer quoted several hundred bucks (~400) for a replacement programmed key fob and laser-cut (?) mechanical key. I contacted a local auto locksmith. He quoted $240 for exactly the same type of key fob and key. For a slightly smaller Lexus key fob with all the same functions and mechanical key, he quoted $160, which I accepted. I have seen these on Amazon and they are genuine (you can verify the serial/model #s on the key fob). The key fob programmed fine and works well. The mechanical key was not laser-cut, but it works fine. So, my advice is to contact a local auto locksmith and save some money.

gomara

Thanks Comotiger, it is a keyless remote fob and unfortunately here in Papua New Guinea, no local locksmith has ventured as yet into programming Keyless Entry Key Fob Remotes because of the local market demand. Now what if I were to purchase a set of used Engine Computer, Smart Key and the Key Fob that comes with it and simply replace originals. Will this work for me? As said earlier, I can't physically find the VIN in all the locations its supposed to be and the chances of getting a reprogram online is slim. Maybe a gadget that can read out the VIN and then reprogram a new remote is still out there that I have to find. Its getting to a hopeless situation. Anybody?

DerrickM

There's supposed to be an RFID chip in the key that will allow you to start the car with a dead keyfob battery by holding the fob very close to the start button. I need to test that out one of these days...

(RFID chips receive power from coil similar to how power is sent to wireless charging or a toothbrush, and the chip sends a coded signal when thus excited. Same way security badges work).

damon

Very few people should endeavor to use Techstream to take a Pre Programmed Key FOB and re program it for their car. It takes a unique skill set & certainly a battery charger attached. I have seen it done successfully and was grateful it was not my Lexus. The consequences of a screw up mid-stream are costly!!

A new FOB or a properly Deprogrammed FOB is a very different ballgame.

comotiger

If there is no authorized Lexus dealer in PNG, go to a Toyota dealer instead. They may be the most knowledgeable in this matter. Or you could call a Lexus dealer in Australia for guidance. Due to your fairly remote location, you may have to spend a few bucks to get a keyfob properly programmed and cut. There are no short cuts.

Richardgil

Battery replacement is on YouTube.