I recently got a 1996 ES 300 used. It came with just one plain key, without remote keys.

Now I'm trying to obtain ones.

What I need is just one remote key. I called a dealership, they offered me a whole deal on a set of new keys and a matching chip for the receiver. To be ordered form the factory for five hundred bucks or so.

That's insane.

What are my options? I could get on EBay a similar remote key from another Lexus in order to have it reprogrammed . Dealership says they're unable to reprogram this particular model.

I could get a fob from 1997-up model, a reprogrammable one. Is there a chance to make it work for a 1996? Just for the doors, the hell with trunk and panic

Any clues are appreciated. Hacks are welcome, too.

Thanks in advance

Simon

 

If you car fits between these production dates of aug 1994 to July 1996 then you can order this part number from the dealer. 89742-24070. This P/N is a Master key with remote (programmable) The MSRP here in Canada is $315.00, With the exchange rate difference, you should only have to pay a few dollars over $200 US. This is for one key only.

 

qk_Lex:

My car is July 1996. Could you elaborate a little more on the option you suggested? It sounds nice.

I'd hate to go to my the dealer in my locale, since he is a real "gangster". Can I make a direct order to Lexus or else? Send them the VIN? Identify myself?

You response is greatly appreciated

Simon

 

Hey Simon

I'm 100% sure that the key part number I gave is programmable. Well maybe not 100%. I work at Lexus Canada at the Head Office, so things could be a little different in the US. But I have the key listing and pricing in front of me as we speak and 89742-24070 for prod dates 08/94 to 07/96 is programmable. This P/N is for one key only.
You should call your Lexus dealer and ask for the parts manager to get the cost of that key. Then ask the service manager or go in and talk to the techs how the program the key yourself.

I'll try and find out myself how to program that key, i'll keep you posted.

Ken

 

Thanks, I'll be looking forward to that

Simon

 

Simon

I have some bad news for you. Just spoke with our Japanese technician here at the office. The only way to program a key is to have one of the original master keys. The only other way is what the dealer suggested and that is to purchase an entire new set of transmitter keys and transmitter reciever..........big dollars. You should consider a good aftermarket alarm system. Most of the quality systems you can use as a remote entry, perhaps that is a cheaper alternative.

Good luck

 

Man !!! check on Ebay. I have found uncut keys with the remote. Of course you will have to go to the dealer and get it programm as well as cut.

Good luck

Carlos

P.S. if you don't see it there... keep checking !

 

check this one out !

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/aw-cg...848058&r=0&t=0

Carlos

 

Let me update you guys on the remote key for '96.

I found the key that I was looking for.

I got it from Lexus Thousand Oaks http://www.lexusofthousandoaks.com/index.html for $166 (ouch!) - A nice new single master key with a remote built into the plastic head.

And the key IS programmable. It has been actually programmed right before my open eyes, neither entire new set of transmitter keys nor transmitter reciever needed.


Carlos: thanks, man, but the key you pointed to didd't have the remote. Sorry, I bypassed other Ebay offers since I needed not just the remote, but the actual key too (all that stuff on ebay was already pre-cut).

qk_Lex: Thanks a lot for your info and numbers. Say hello to your Japanese technician there at the office. Nobody is perfect.

 

If you need a new remote key system for you're lexus, you have to talk to the dealership. They will replace your ECU, and give you brand new keys. It is waaaay expensive.