Replacement Key/Remote Success
Thread Starter
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Oct 2018
Posts: 10
Likes: 5
From: ct
Replacement Key/Remote Success
After reading several threads on keys, here's a quick update on my experience buying a new key, not from the dealer....
The used 2017 ES350 I bought came with only one keyfob/key. I called the local Lexus dealer and was quoted $325 from the parts department for a new electronic keyfob and emergency key. The Service department quoted around $50 to program and cut the new keys. Total with tax would have been just south of $400.
After some homework, I ordered a new keyfob and emergency key from Carandtruckremotes.com. They were very helpful on the phone, and the new remote arrived in 2 days. Total cost (incl. shipping and tax, and a promo code discount) was $119. Their site also include a directory of locksmiths capable of programming keys. I found several nearby and called two for prices. The locksmith I selected came to my house to program the remote and cut the emergency key. He was here for maybe 15 minutes. Total cost $75.
So all in, I spent $194 instead of $398. And the new keys work perfectly.
The used 2017 ES350 I bought came with only one keyfob/key. I called the local Lexus dealer and was quoted $325 from the parts department for a new electronic keyfob and emergency key. The Service department quoted around $50 to program and cut the new keys. Total with tax would have been just south of $400.
After some homework, I ordered a new keyfob and emergency key from Carandtruckremotes.com. They were very helpful on the phone, and the new remote arrived in 2 days. Total cost (incl. shipping and tax, and a promo code discount) was $119. Their site also include a directory of locksmiths capable of programming keys. I found several nearby and called two for prices. The locksmith I selected came to my house to program the remote and cut the emergency key. He was here for maybe 15 minutes. Total cost $75.
So all in, I spent $194 instead of $398. And the new keys work perfectly.
Lexus Test Driver
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 5,297
Likes: 1,589
From: SE PA
After reading several threads on keys, here's a quick update on my experience buying a new key, not from the dealer....
The used 2017 ES350 I bought came with only one keyfob/key. I called the local Lexus dealer and was quoted $325 from the parts department for a new electronic keyfob and emergency key. The Service department quoted around $50 to program and cut the new keys. Total with tax would have been just south of $400.
After some homework, I ordered a new keyfob and emergency key from Carandtruckremotes.com. They were very helpful on the phone, and the new remote arrived in 2 days. Total cost (incl. shipping and tax, and a promo code discount) was $119. Their site also include a directory of locksmiths capable of programming keys. I found several nearby and called two for prices. The locksmith I selected came to my house to program the remote and cut the emergency key. He was here for maybe 15 minutes. Total cost $75.
So all in, I spent $194 instead of $398. And the new keys work perfectly.
The used 2017 ES350 I bought came with only one keyfob/key. I called the local Lexus dealer and was quoted $325 from the parts department for a new electronic keyfob and emergency key. The Service department quoted around $50 to program and cut the new keys. Total with tax would have been just south of $400.
After some homework, I ordered a new keyfob and emergency key from Carandtruckremotes.com. They were very helpful on the phone, and the new remote arrived in 2 days. Total cost (incl. shipping and tax, and a promo code discount) was $119. Their site also include a directory of locksmiths capable of programming keys. I found several nearby and called two for prices. The locksmith I selected came to my house to program the remote and cut the emergency key. He was here for maybe 15 minutes. Total cost $75.
So all in, I spent $194 instead of $398. And the new keys work perfectly.
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Instructor
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 834
Likes: 257
From: Massachusetts
It is a much better and more reliable approach actually - they figure out the key "code" from the picture and then use a special computerized cutter to make a perfect copy.
More traditional "analog" replication often makes a poorly working key - especially when making a copy of a copy.
Nearly 100% positive feedback of these vendors proves that it works out well.
More traditional "analog" replication often makes a poorly working key - especially when making a copy of a copy.
Nearly 100% positive feedback of these vendors proves that it works out well.
Advanced
Joined: Feb 2018
Posts: 589
Likes: 126
From: San Diego
Either it works or it don't.. Feedback proves it does. I would caution that Feedback can be revised and most would do so if the seller makes it right.
I would use one that is 100% and 0 revised as I don't want to deal with all the back and forth to get them to make it right.
CL Community Team
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 12,397
Likes: 453
From: GA
I actually found a place (internet) to purchase a complete key FOB, with key cut for $125 shipped for a Locksmith. They require proof of ownership – License, VIN and photo of key. He can only do it if he has an inventory of the keyfob that you are requiring. It includes shipping. I got one and the daughter got one as well. Now we have peace of mind that we have full functioning keyfob spares.
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 834
Likes: 257
From: Massachusetts
CL Community Team
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 12,397
Likes: 453
From: GA
This is where I got them. I was actually dealing with the owner: https://www.remotesremotes.com/product-p/406.htm
What you are going to get is a used Key FOB with a brand new key cut for your car, hence the reasonable pricing. Ever wonder why you only get 1 Key FOB when buying a used car? They sell the spare to locksmiths.
What you are going to get is a used Key FOB with a brand new key cut for your car, hence the reasonable pricing. Ever wonder why you only get 1 Key FOB when buying a used car? They sell the spare to locksmiths.