2011 SmartKey

Priceless!

 

So How much was it to reprogram your keys? I have just one key to my Toyota Prius and I am very worried that if I lose the key I will be out quite a bit of money. I am trying to save money the best I can. So what I understood is that you bought 2 uncut toyota smart keys off ebay and then took it into toyota and had them cut it and program it?

 

You are combining two separate technologies into one question. For clarity:

The emergency key is a mechanical key that operates only the door lock - it only gets you into the passenger compartment. Beginning on Gen 3 vehicles, the key evolved from a standard key, to what is called a laser cut key or four-channel internal cut key (aka sidewinder.) The emergency key is stored in the fob (aka remote.) It fits within the "high security" key category because it requires a very specific type of key cutting machine, basically a mini-milling machine. The SKS fob is essentially an electronic "key."

The SKS fob contains the transceivers (electronics) which unlock the doors, triggers the panic alarm, or activates the A/C or moonroof (if equipped.) It also contains the circuitry that engages the vehicle's immobilizer, or plainly, allows you to start the car. There appear to be significant (for owners) differences between the Gen2 and Gen3 SKS systems when it comes to programming fobs - Gen3 requires special equipment - a cable, software, and pc. Gen2 can be programmed manually, by utilizing steps that we have termed "the chicken-dance." There are more nuances, but the basics are covered (e.g. the fob is not programmed, the car's ECU(s) is/are programmed.)

Gen 2 emergency keys are duplicated on a wheel cutting machine. It is the standard everyone is familiar with- the key has a serrated edge along one or both edges of the key shaft. Duplication is cheap and easily found. Gen3 keys have uncut edges, and are characterized by reliefs cut into the interior side of the key shaft. Duplication of these keys is more specialized, and is obviously, more expensive.

Programming the SKS ECU on Gen3 vehicles to accept new or used fobs is a two track process. Adding a new fob requires the physical equipment mentioned, but does not require a seed reset of the ECU. Used fobs do require a seed reset, and this ability is very specialized. Toyota tried to corner the market on generating the seed value by limiting it to authorized dealers or licensed locksmiths. It requires a Level 3 access to Toyota Techstream.

There is more to each system, but I think that characterizes the basics for future discussion

Safe trips,
Dave

 

I know this thread was started a while back but just now running into trouble and wanted to let others know what happened. So I read about purchasing a key elsewhere since out Toyota dealer wanted close to $500 for everything. Found a new key on Ebay (at least was told it was) for $45. Took it to my dealer who had already agreed to program key for $100 if it was possible. They came out and told me they we not able to program it since it appeared to be programed to another car still. So WATCH OUT when buying a new/used key. I trust this local dealer. My question. Where can I purchase a NEW KEY that they will be able to program? Thanks.....

 

When I first experimented with all this to learn something (maybe it was just for amusement) I purchased my first virgin fob from parts.com.

All your dealer has to do is a seed reset of the SKS ECU and the pre-registered fob would work just fine. But that's the problem with entrusting a dealer - they charge you too much and the results are not enough.

Safe trips,
Dave

EVO ?

 

Same issue here. I have a Gen 3 2010 Prius. Talked to parts guy at dealership today. A new fob and lazer cut emergency key will cost me $370. Now I see that there are entire stores on ebay that specialize in "remanufactured" smartkey fobs and blank keys for about $90. The keys are returnable if my dealer won't work with them. Dealer told me they would program for $50 and said the ebay route could be dicey, but what else are they going to say? There is also a locksmith in town whom people recommend, but his price is only about $50 less than dealer. Others are saying Ace Hardware now widely advertises their Smartkey services. Thoughts?