My remote failed and I would have to use the metal key to unlock the car. The remote would have to be inserted in the ignition in order to start the car. We don't have a Lexus dealer within 75 miles so I took the car to our local locksmith that claim they can program any car system. Well maybe they can but they found out they can't do a Lexus. So There is a Toyota dealer here so I called them and asked if they handled Lexus. The lady said, " No just Toyota". So after I was done with her, I thought, maybe she thought I was asking if they sold Lexus, which they don't. I called back and asked for service and they told me they can help me. So I took it to them, and by the end of the day, they said the remote, which is the main key is no good and has to be replaced. So they wiped system clean, made a new master key/remote and reprogramed the other remotes and then reprogramed all the settings in the car I had before. Now everything works perfectly. When I first got the car, it would only start with the remote inserted in the ignition. Now if I have it in my pocket, I can start it without putting it in the ignition.
I am very impressed with these guys. They said the Lexus system is not an exact copy of the Toytota system, but they got it done. the cost was reasonable and was even less then what the Lexus dealer, 75 miles away would have charged. Next time, I will return for service work. Check out your local Toyota dealer service. You may find out they can do as good or better than Lexus for less $$.

 

My son hid a set of GM keys in a Mr Potato Head. I thought I lost the keys as I am the only one who uses the spare and I did so when I did the water pump on Labor Day. I had a new fob (hers is not a smart key) and key (circle plus) cut and programmed for $173. This is not cheap but compare it to a) amazon b) dealer

So I decided to ask, why he doesn't do Lexus and BMW. Cost prohibitive to have the setup to do so. His laptop was a consumer grade Lenovo, but it had a software package on it that is subscription based, and he is charged per key. There was a large brick that plugged into the OBDII port.

I was able to observe the entire procedure because had to go back. First, wipe all fobs due to remote start capapbility. Then, wipe all keys. Now, add new in, add old. And current old needed to begin process. It even has a wait period that counts down. I take it to prevent theft by laptop but who knows.

We found the keys. So to the customer care and workmanship.

The person laughed about the Mr. Potato Head and was willing to add the 3rd fob/key in. It actually was add the third key, erase all fobs and add 3 fobs back. No charge even though he is charged by the software subscription co.

The gentleman lives in my neighborhood by coincidence, his son just graduated our HS, and we've become friends ever since. It's pretty rare that I spend money in my own community and support local businesses (cuz isn't the internet cheaper?), but this time I did so and it was a win-win.