Just bought a 2011 LS460 to compliment my GS300 and GX470. Came with one key. No problem (so I thought). Went down to the dealer, the cut another key and tried to program the keyfob. They couldn't do it. When I heard the diagnostic will cost me additional $170 + $170 for programming on top of whatever part needed to replace (oscillator) in addition to the $300 dollars I already paid for the new keyfob, I decided to take matters in my own hands.

I bought a pirated TIS software and cable, downloaded and got it to communicate with my car. Went to add the smart key and followed all the steps. Held up my original key, beep. Took that away and held up my new key to the ignition switch. Got the verifying beep. The last step for verification was to place it on the passenger's seat. This is when it fails. I tried everything. Cell phone off, wifi off, changed batteries in the keyfob and even did a diagnostic of the sensors in the car Front driver, front passenger, rear driver, rear passenger, trunk... everything works except I get a long beep (not the short beeps when you hold the keyfob close to the receiver) when I chose the back area check. I am sure this means something. Anyone acquainted with this software knows what I am talking about. My attempts to learn this new keyfob top out around 30 and hours invested.

I thought the dealership was feeding me a line of bull when he said you have a bad oscillator. Sure enough in the TIS software, that is what these receivers are called. However, during my check on the passenger receiver with the working keyfob, it checks out ok. If it is a bad oscillator in the rear preventing me from learning this keyfob, they have to rip out the side airbags and headliner...

I am an electronic tech of 40 years and know my stuff. I also know I am totally over my head on this one. I just know that this dealer is going to come back to me and say it will cost $3,000 or more... I just can't see spending this much money just for a second key. I have no issues with the one key I have and the program states there is only 1 key programmed in the car. This is killing me. I have researched this to death on the internet and even here on this forum. I love this forum so much because the wealth of information I received over the year with my other two lexuses.... hopefully I can get some insight here. Can this be done another way? Thanks!

 

scottp104

All I would say is that LS is a real heavy paper weight if you loose that key. That 1 key thing is a real PIA. My son had to get a second key made for his 2005 SC 430

Dennis