Cheapest way to replace key fob when buttons are broke so you can't do "chicken dance"

Are just the rubber button covers smashed up or is there damage to the actual buttons on the board? If the former, you could just carefully take the case apart before doing the chicken dance. If the latter, how are you at soldering?

In regards to the SKS not working, is the button under the steering wheel in the correct position? Try pressing it, then trying the proximity again. If it only has trouble starting but not unlocking the doors when you're near, you may have an issue with the immobilizer antenna in the center console.

 

Yes remove the inner workings from the old key fob, clean and dry well, then see where you are. Don’t forget the rfid chip in the old case. That’s what’s allowing your car to start now. There is at least one write up on how to do it around here. You really want to clean the board and the buttons on it. Some dirt might be blocking the buttons from working.

Do you have another key fob, or is that the only one you have?

 

Here's a Keyfob for $133: https://www.toyotapartsdeal.com/oem/toyota~transmitter~sub~assy~electrical~key~89904-47011.html

Here's one for $142: Transmitter - Toyota (89904-47011) | Toyota Parts

Here's one for $147: Transmitter Electronic - Toyota (89994-47061) | Toyota Parts

Be sure to double-check the part number with your VIN to make sure you get the right one (proximity enabled or not)

 

If the inner workings are good, you can always try a new case.
Replacement For 2007 2008 2009 Toyota Prius Car Key Fob Remote Shell Case 39294322260 | eBay

It's worth a try.

 

There is a transmitter unit in the car that talks to the keys. If the keys aren't the issue (the red light on the key is a sign it is transmitting), it might be that ecu.

 

What if the existing fob was never initialized in its remote mode, and only as a fob slot starter key? That would make the buttons unresponsive, and would probably necessitate reseeding the car.

 

That’s a good price for all that.

 

That’s above my pay grade. Hopefully someone with experience can chime in. I have no experience with a replacement like that.

 

Do you have a PRIUS repair shop near by? [ Not the Dealer ]

 

As I mentioned in the other thread.
Sounded like the first key never was programmed to do sks/door locks.

If the locksmith did not know this when he first did the job it could throw him off.

And also as mentioned in other thread and on here, if first key was never programmed to do sks/door locks, then a reseed would be needed.

Pretty straightforward.

 

It may not be less expensive than new fob and programming since there is labor involved with removing and installing the ecus.