I just bought a 2001 IS300 last night and it only came with the valet key. I have been doing some searching on here and from what I have read, I can not get a new key with the remote built in without having the master key.

Is this correct?

If so, what does it cost to get the new computer module installed so i can get a new master key?

Can you get those used?

 

You can get a master key cut, but you need to know the key code... So long as the locks have never been changed, simply call your dealer with your VIN and they can get it for you. They can also produce a key for your car and have the computer programmed - there is no need to get any module, just needs programmed

 

I work in the Lexus parts department and for 2001 you need a new ecu, for 2002-2005 they changed it so you do not need a new ecu to get a key, making getting a new master key for a 2001 a big hassle.

 

didnt know that, that sucks...

 

If you contact Lexus Corporate they will give you a new computer. The bad part is a Lexus dealer has to install it. You have to buy 2 keys from the dealer and pay for installation and program.

 

I have read this before and its the best way to go as it saves you the ECU cost.

I would think you could investigate buying a used ECU with a master key. You would need to check what else you would need to swap with it ....

Once you have one master key you can program more yourself...

good luck let us know what you decide.

 

I just bought my 2001 IS300 in April..and was only given one master key w/ remote...this past friday 07/19/13 i lost my keys at work...theyre gone. i found a company that came out and created me a new master key w/ remote and a valet key..from scratch without breaking into my car and setting off the alarm..and they reflashed my ecu when i called the lexus dealership prior to all this they told me that it wasnt possible on the 2001 year and i would need a new ecu...not true....they only pro was the company came to me and did all this w/in 40mins......con was it was the same price dealer quoted me...$350..lemme know if you want the contact info...im in boston....dont know if they could help but maybe they can get advise

 

Toyota had the same issue for a few years. They will give you the computer and the keys but you have to pay the labor to have it installed usually. I work at a Toyota dealer and it happens all the time

 

I have a 2002 IS300 (original owner) and both of my master keys with remotes have broken off from the actual keys and I now only can use the valet key to start the car. Dealer quoted me $350 to get a new key with remote. I passed since I am getting a new IS soon. Sad that in 12 years I have had two keys break. I am looking forward to the new push start on the car so I dont have to deal with keys breaking anymore...

 

We just bought a used 2004 IS300 from a Kia dealership. Our 16 year old son drained his bank account to buy this with some help from us...Once we filled out all the paperwork and went to drive it away, we realized that the ONE key that they had and gave to us was just a valet key. I thought I would go to Lowe's and have another key cut and realize that it is much more involved and costly than I thought. The dealer said that only one valet key will work at a time and we have to pay like $350 to order a new master key and then pay labor to program it. Is this the ONLY way to have a spare key? He can live without the remote lock and unlock but we really want a spare key in case this is lost. I see all this stuff on ebay and wonder what to do/buy/what will work, where to get the blank key cut, etc. I printed off directions to program a key, but need help with what to buy, where to cut, etc...Had we known... Thanks for any help you can provide!

 

Go on ebay and you can source keys - simply take a picture of your key, email it to them, and they will send you a new key, only problem is, you need the electronics out of the old keys...

you can also order other lexus keys and program them yourself, there are instructions if you search CL

 

i have the black key from lexus without the remote how can i tell if its a master key? i have a 01 is300

 

The only way to verify if it is a master key, you need a tech stream/ Toyota or Lexus factory scan tool.

Person in earlier comments is right, 01's have to have ECM replaced if all keys or master key is lost

Granted your black key is usually a master or main key

 

I have a Valet key but I'm looking into atleast buying the valet key with a Lexus logo. Is it possible to make a copy without the remote mission?

 

You can purchase the lexus keys off Amazon and have them cut for you by your local locksmith; I had it done for 30$ per key. The keys do not come with the center module. I think you can order that part online and possibly get it programmed by a locksmith, I was quote 100$ to get one programmed. Not sure how much the dealer charges...