The casing to the master key is now broken.

My wife kept trying to turn the key while the steering wheel was locked. Is there anywhere where I can get a case?? I have her using the valet key right now because I don't want to lose the head to the key and the transponder stop working. It is my only master key.

Stephen

 

You can probably find it on eBay.

 

I have seen alot of auctions for master keys on eBay. I would email the ones who also cut the keys. And see if they have any extra pieces available. At the worst you buy a used key.

 

It is near impossible to fix a cracked master key back to good condition. Usualy the metal piece cracks/separates right where it attaches to the plastic case. I've tried epoxy and some other adhesives, but nothing has brought a key back to usable condition.

You cant really buy a replacement part for it, even used. the key piece is molded into the case. So really a used key or key parts wouldnt help you.

Best advice would be to buy a new key, get it programmed from your existing master, and store the cracked transponder for safe-keeping.

 

I agree, and recommend you get not one but TWO master keys programmed and working.

 

Great , I thought I was just needing a $20 case but now you guys are telling me I need a new key .. . OUCH $200 is not what I wanted to spend

Some of the Master keys on Ebay have the same FCC # and Canada # but they are already cut. How do I know the cut will be the same and start my car?

 

Buy an uncut key on ebay for $50 like I did and get it cut for $30 bucks at a local locksmith and program it yourself. The hard part will be finding a locksmith to cut the key, but usually there is at least a couple if you live near a city. Worst case you can have Lexus cut it for you.

 

Most Dealers dont cut keys, they order them and they come pre-cut by the vin# from Michigan.

I'm sure there are some out there that have the equipment, but certainly not most dealeres.

 

OK, I think you're right. Sorry about the misinformation. I just called around the phone book and found a guy but most locksmiths don't have the equipment.

 

Well, I live in Houston , so I am sure there is somebody with the equipment to cut the key.


The problem is , I haven't been seeing the blank Lexus keys online lately and the cut ones are going for about $75. I don't understand why someone would buy a cut key since it won't start the car.

Stephen

 

There is also a bigger problem. If you end up ordeing a new key from lexus you can't program it without another working master key OR you have to buy a new engine ecu (estimated $1400) to get the new key to program.

Good Luck!

 

slowtan

You could always just buy a pre-cut remote 'master' key and toss the guts of your broken key into it.

 

My master key case is cracked up .. The transponder inside is good and I should be able to program a new key using some tape to hold the old key together. That is what the dealer told me anyways.

 

A pre-cut "master key with no guts" ??? Never heard of it.
The master key would have to have all the buttons to be a master or it would just be a valet key. and valet keys have the transponder , they just need programming.

Please post a link if you think I mis-understood you.

Stehen

 

To put the transponder in a key with a fail transponder or spare door lock/unlock.