$350.00 quote for new key.
 

I went to my local Lexus dealer today to inquire about having a new key made. When I purchased the car it came with only one key. The key I have is the cars original with the push button panic, trunk and unlock button. The parts person said the cost for a key to be made would be $350.00. She explained the key is programmed to my car and that a new one would need to be made. So along with the service charge and key the cost is $350.00. My car is a 1999 Lexus sc400. Can anyone advise me of somewhere to go, or a way to purchase and have the key made for a more affordable price. I don't require an oem key. It would be nice, but I just need a spare for emergencies. Thank you.

You would need it programmed, as the 99s have a chip in them. They are probably including the programming fee. I'm sure there are some on the forum who have instructions on the programming process. I think it has to do with performing a certain sequence of procedures in the car.

A quick google search brought up this forum thread which someone mentions the process. Not sure it is accurate or not...

http://us.lexusownersclub.com/forums...-sc400-remote/

I've got a 1998 SC400 and here at the dealership in Houston, they quoted me for $315.. it's a huge ripoff but what can we do..

I need to know if there is a way to program into a new chip as well.

I'd give this one a try if the one Zerodrag posted doesn't work, it IS for a 300 but I mean, it's worth giving it a shot since it's a 99' as well. And can you do me a favor and post if it works/doesn't as I have a 00' with one key as well.

http://www.keyfobprogram.com/1999-le...y-programming/

You need to have an original master key in order to program the key.

Call around to local lock smiths. A lot more lock smiths are able to program keys on these older vehicles. It should be about 150 to 200 for a complete key. If you're looking to replace the key shell, then I would recommend paying extra for an eternity key.

This. Locksmiths are pretty good about being up on the times technology wise and a decent one should be able to make you a key.

This information will only work if you still have the original master key.

Do this and you will save tons of money. Go to your dealership and purchase a new 3 button key housing and have them copy your master key and get it cut (between $50-$80 at the dealer). Go on Ebay and buy a used 3 button internals with the matching FCC ID as your key (or a whole used key whichever is cheaper), you'll see them on Ebay for about $35.00. Now that you have a complete key. Next step is to program it. You can program the key yourself. There is a great writeup that worked for my 1998 SC300.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gs-...400-430-a.html

Do all of this and you will have a "new" secondary master key for around $100.00

Do you know where I can get a secondary master key from? As in the mold or the key with a chip which wasn't programmed?

EDIT: I'm so sorry, I can't read *facepalm* ...

Should check the 2GS forum for key threads (in addition to the one linked above) for key sources, suspect it's the same

You can get a blank non master key off eBay and have your local dealer or locksmith cut it for about $40. I did this for my GS300. You will have to manually turn the door key cylinder to unlock the door. That is better than paying $300 +. I did not mind since it is just a backup key.

I only have one master key when I bought my sc300. Two weeks ago, the key shell broke and I cannot turn the ignition on. I went to the dealer, they replaced the shell and cut a new key for me for $54. Also, the delaer quoted me $225 for another master key including programming if I wanted too.

The dealer recommended an outside locksmith. If I want a new key without the buttons I can go there. The locsksmith quoted for $110.

I did this a few months ago on my 98 sc 400. i bought it with only a master key and wanted a backup.

I ordered the key from ebay by taking a picture of my key. Did the reprogramming myself with the provided instructions. I've been using it now as my main key and no problems.

who was selling that on ebay? it would be nice to know who is doing it right. TIA!

1010keys. Located in Calif. Excellent communication, support (email response on the weekend), and instructions. I have no affiliation with them.

thumbs up for all the answers as I just happened to be in the same situation