I bought my first Lexus (1994 LS400) last year and have been very pleased with the vehicle. When I bought the car, the previous owner handed me only one key for the car. However, stupid me didn't get a duplicate key made right away. Now I'm paying the price.

Yesterday I lost the key and am wondering what to do. From reading other posts on this site, people have said a locksmith would be able to make another key. However, if my key had a transponder, I'd have to have a different kind of computer put into the car, costing over $1000, something I simply cannot afford.

Since I have a first generation LS, does my key have a transponder in it? What are my options if it does/does not? I live north of Milwaukee, WI, and the nearest dealer is in Glendale.

Any constructive suggestions would be appreciated.

Edit: the only key I had (now lost) had a black head on it with one button on the side. I'm not sure which type of key that was. Also, I don't really care about having remote entry or any frills. I just want a key that will start my car again.

 

On the first gen, a locksmith can make you another, however you need to find one that does laser cut keys. You can also order one from a Lexus dealer. You will need to provide them with the VIN number to the car, as well as provide proof of registration/insurance and they will be able to order another. The key you lost was the master key and the only function the button had was remote lock/unlock (if it even worked,,,had quit on most first gens a long time ago)

 

Thank you. You are right; the remote lock/unlock never seemed to work for me. I will call a few local locksmiths to see if they can cut this key.

The only big question in my mind is whether or not the lost master key had a transponder. If it did, then am I in for a huge bill to get this key replaced? Sorry if I'm ignorant about this stuff.

 

Only transponder the first gen keys had was to operate the remote lock/unlock. Youshould be fine. If you had lost a key from one of the later models, say from an LS430, then the cheaper option would be to hit up the dealer with the info I mentioned and let them order another for you.

 

Thanks again. The rep from http://lexus.sewellparts.com/ told me exactly what you just said. He told me the first model year Lexus put in different transponders was 1998.

Now, to find someone who can cut those keys....

 

he's wrong, first year for transponders was '97 (which was an odd year because of that) then again in 98 with the model change.

 

Are you saying my car is odd?