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Can Techstream program aftermarket key fob?

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Old Mar 25, 2023 | 08:59 PM
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Default Can Techstream program aftermarket key fob?

I have a 2007 LS460. I bought a 'brand new' aftermarket key fob from eBay. Verified the circuit board with ID 271451-0140. The shell has printing FCC ID: HYQ14AAB. IC: 1551A-14AAB. All match with my original/working (OEM) key fob.

I used Techstream (tried v17 and v18) with VXDIAG VCX Nano (also tried "Mini VCI" cable before). I can program TPMS with no problem. I tried to program the new key fob by following instructions on http://www.diy-time.com/automotive/l...s-is250-is350/. It didn't work. Symptom as below:

On step 15 in the link above, I used the new key to touch the "Engine Start" button. I heard a beep. (Was it supposed to be one beep or two beeps? Many YouTube videos indicate two beeps. But the link above indicate one beep).
On step 16 in the link above, I put the new key on the passenger seat.
After a moment, Techstream said registration failed, gave a list of possible causes, such as "two or more keys in the car", "the key already registered", "low battery", etc. None of them applied to my scenario.

Though the seller didn't mention any limitation, some other aftermarket key fob sellers indicate that those key fobs cannot be programmed with Techstream and have to be program with "Lonsdor K518, Tango or Xhorse VVDI Key Tool Max". That gave me the impression that Techstream only works for OEM/Denso key fobs?

Has anyone successfully programmed an aftermarket key fob with Techstream? Thank you!


Last edited by helloguys; Mar 25, 2023 at 09:03 PM.
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Old Mar 25, 2023 | 09:24 PM
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I don't know specifically your answer but I've read many posts here about how aftermarket Chinese electronics may not work as advertised on our cars. Especially when programming or CPU recognition is required. Do you know anyone who's used this "brand" successfully? DIY time doesn't count. I'll bet an OEM blank will work.
Also there are locksmiths who can help you for less money than a dealer.
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Old Mar 26, 2023 | 05:21 AM
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I added an used key ("virginized") without issues, however, the key was OEM. I just followed Techstream instructions instead any else.
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Old Mar 27, 2023 | 06:19 AM
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You can program any key as long as it’s compatible.
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Old Mar 27, 2023 | 07:15 AM
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LOL! Funny. I wish that there weren't knockoffs that don't work, stealing our money and sanity.
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Old Mar 27, 2023 | 08:48 AM
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I programmed a ebay key onto my 2011 RX350 with techstream. it was like $80? Amazon has them too for slightly more but returns are easier if it doesnt work.
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Old Mar 27, 2023 | 09:27 AM
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Originally Posted by bearcav
I programmed a ebay key onto my 2011 RX350 with techstream. it was like $80? Amazon has them too for slightly more but returns are easier if it doesnt work.
Great that you had success. Can you give us specific brand, model, seller, etc? Also, when you did this as products come and go and change.
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Old Mar 27, 2023 | 09:41 AM
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I used this device to program an aftermarket fob on my '15. I plan on doing the same with a smart key card as soon as it gets in.

Amazon Amazon
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Old Mar 27, 2023 | 10:30 AM
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Originally Posted by swfla
Great that you had success. Can you give us specific brand, model, seller, etc? Also, when you did this as products come and go and change.
Amazon Amazon

I used this but obviously not available. I would order a key off amazon and see if that works. Maybe the ebay one is defective?
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Old Mar 27, 2023 | 11:23 AM
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Originally Posted by KennyFSU
I used this device to program an aftermarket fob on my '15. I plan on doing the same with a smart key card as soon as it gets in.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Y2LGGPS...roduct_details
Site says only for 2006-2011 various Lexus models on the fitment guide and only 2007-08 LS models. Don't want members rushing to buy this when it won't work for many LS models, do we?
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Old Mar 30, 2023 | 04:42 AM
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Originally Posted by swfla
Site says only for 2006-2011 various Lexus models on the fitment guide and only 2007-08 LS models. Don't want members rushing to buy this when it won't work for many LS models, do we?
That's the thing; my 2015 RCF isn't listed on the compatibility list yet it still worked.

I took a gamble and it paid off. Worst case scenario: it doesn't work and you return it for a full refund.
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Old Aug 12, 2023 | 01:16 PM
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I grabbed. chinese fob off ebay for my 2015 rx450h and it's failing on the passenger seat part as well. I sent the seller a message today so we'll see what they say. I did let them know before I bought it I would be using techstream and they said it was fine but who knows.
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Old Aug 15, 2023 | 02:23 PM
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So I ordered a xhorse vvdi key tool max and of course the ebay guy sent me instructions on the generic smart key, it actually worked. When doing step 1 and 2 I kept both the original key and the new key in my hand and put them both up to the start button at the same time. Then I placed only the new key on the passenger seat, it worked within seconds. I couldn't believe it
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Old Aug 17, 2023 | 05:34 AM
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Originally Posted by daweeze02
So I ordered a xhorse vvdi key tool max and of course the ebay guy sent me instructions on the generic smart key, it actually worked. When doing step 1 and 2 I kept both the original key and the new key in my hand and put them both up to the start button at the same time. Then I placed only the new key on the passenger seat, it worked within seconds. I couldn't believe it
hi mate. The only xhorse vvdi key tool max units I can find online seems to be around 400-600 dollars. Is that about what you paid?

I have the exact same problem as you (eBay key), but not sure I wanna spend hundreds and hundreds of dollars on a tool I’d only use once.

thanks!

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Old Aug 17, 2023 | 06:34 AM
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If you bought a used OEM virginized key and gone to dealer or a locksmith, the cost would've been reasonable and done already. There are several threads here that state mixed success with generic keys. But OEM Fobs have a very high success rate. Seeing you've been a member here since 2009, it's a shame you didn't utilize the forum before buying. You're not alone but are welcome and encouraged to use our data in the future.

Last edited by swfla; Aug 17, 2023 at 10:34 AM.
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