lindajohns

I am confused by the smart key thing. I had 2 keys given to me by dealer. Both look like FOBs but only one has a truck button. So I guess the other is a valet key. Question: Should I purchase an additional smartkey? or can I since I don't have the key number -- that I am aware of?

Is the smartkey safe or is there really a way for crooks to obtain the transmitted signal from the car (like the web says)?

I still have to dig my key out to open the trunk? right?

karasdad

I had the same issue when I purchased a used 04 LS430 from a friend. You don't need to use the key to open the trunk with the master key with the pic of the white trunk on it. It opens when you touch the button under the lid just like the doors open when you have the fob on your person. I was worried about hearing how much it costs to get a replacement key if the master is lost and you don't have the original numbers. I looked at buying a used one on eBay and having it reprogrammed, I talked to local locksmiths about it, I was told that it sometimes can be done but not always. I ended up going to my dealer and they copied the master key for $185 incl tax which I felt was a fair deal. didn't need anything but the original key. If you buy a used key you still need to get the metal key replaced and recut which ends up costing more too. I'd suggest just getting a new back up key. I really don't think you can capture the key code wirelessly and it probably isn't worth it for a crook. too much technology involved.

EN_VY

Welcome to the forums!

V8_Fan

Yes, you should buy a second master. You can't drive w/ the valet key in your pocket as you can w/ the master key. The valet key must be in the ignition. If you only have 1 master and lose it, you cannot get a replacement w/o changing the entire engine ECU (which comes w/ 2 master keys). IIRC, Toyota/lexus has a one-time deal were they pay for parts and you pay for labor. Usually, the ECU is under the dash, so that would mean pulling the entire dash apart (min 3 hrs labor). If the PO had already swapped the ECU, you have to foot the bill for parts & labor (we're talking $1500-2K). So as you see, it's much cheaper & easier to get a second master key for a couple of hundred (that's like 2 hrs of labor) than go through all the headache & hastle.

zbs60

Holy Geeez, thanks for the info. Now I'm thinking about getting a 3rd key!!

lindajohns

Thanx, I think I need to go to Lexus school.

AlexusAnja

You can get the Smartkey from Seville (online) for about $190 and that's including the cutting of the metal key according to your vehicle VIN. Then bring the key to local Lexus and get it programmed for about $50-80, unless you have a good relationship with them, then they might bring the price down or program for free.

Definitely get another key just for backup sake. I'm not so sure about the not being able to program a key if you don't have one master key at all, that may be true, but sounds strange.

As for the possibility of signal stealing, it's possible, but what are the probability of it happening? Don't worry about it too much, you probably have a better chance of being bitten by a shark in SC waters than getting your signal stolen then your car.

DaytonaSTi

I got a 2nd Master Key at Sterling McCall Lexus in Houston for $205, cut and programmed to my car. Check with your local dealer before you order online IMO.

Tee

I got my back up from Sewell Lexus too (CL approved vendor) like Alex for under $200 with the key cut, great CS and they were quick as well.

Click here: http://www.sewellpartsonline.com/par...l.asp?id=50833

They are selling the key for $142.99, just in case your dealer is too high.