5 Lexus Car Key Lessons From The Pros

Lexus Key Replacement - Replacing a Remote Or Fob

If you have a traditional Lexus key that turns on the ignition, or a smart key for your car, which starts by pressing one button, eventually the battery inside the fob will deplete. It's easy to replace it with a paperclip: Pop the old battery out and then insert the new one (refer to the manual for your owner to see which type of battery you need) and then clip it back into place.

Keys

Lexus keys are not simple to replace and require a professional locksmith for replacing car keys to create a working spare. This is due to the fact that every Lexus key contains a microchip that needs to be programmed to sync with the immobiliser system of your vehicle and if it's not, it'll not start.

It requires a lot time and equipment that is specially designed for this procedure to be executed correctly. Each model has its own programming procedure. Replacing keys or remotes is a pricey task that should be left to professionals, unless equipped with the proper tools and know-how.

You'll have to replace the batteries in your smart key or standard key. Both keys operate by turning the barrel of the ignition. You can save money by doing this yourself but it will require the use of a small Phillips screwdriver and the coin (a 20p piece is a good choice) and a paperclip. On the front of the fob, you will see two or one screw remove them and place them in a safe place (they're small and easily lost). Remove the fob, which will reveal a circular indentation where the key's metal part will be. Remove the battery with the paperclip, and then insert the new battery, making sure that it's inserted correctly. Then clip the inside of the key back to the fob.

Remotes

Replacing a Lexus remote or fob is complicated and requires skilled locksmiths with the right tools as well as knowledge. Some models require that the transponder chip within the key be changed in order to work with the immobiliser of the car. The Lexus models use different methods to program these chips. This is accomplished by using a specific device that sends a code chip to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Some Lexus models are built with a unit that combines the key head and the remote. They are much easier to replace since there is no chip that needs to be replaced. This kind of key is also a bit less expensive.

All fobs eventually lose their battery power, no matter the type of key. It can be a frustrating experience however with a little bit of knowledge you can get your Lexus back in operation. Check out the owner's manual to determine what type of battery you need. Then, search for the replacement. Locate a small hole on the inside of the fob. Insert the coin (20p is a good choice) into the hole and twist. The fob should be revealed as a flat area that you can use a paper clip to remove.

Then, pull the old battery out and insert the new one. Make sure that the new battery is installed with the proper direction of operation. Clip the two sides of your fob to insert the metal key.

Transponder Chips

Transponder chips are found in the key heads of almost all new cars produced since 1995. They are used to disarm immobiliser systems. The head of a key which includes a transponder chips can be removed to reveal a metal L-shaped key. A replacement key or fob made of a transponder chip is a multi-stage process that includes accurate cutting of the replacement keys as well as programming the transponder chip so that it can synch up with the vehicle's immobiliser.

The Key Lab  is an electronic chip that has Non-Volatile Memory (NVM) that contains a set of windings (very fine wire twisted around a tube) that look like the ones in an electric motor. The windings generate a coded message that the car can read. If the code is correct the car will begin to move.

There are two types of transponder chips, one known as the 80 bit and the other known as a circle + (General Motors). The first one is reusable, however it needs to be unlocked with a special machine to function on a different vehicle compatible with it. The latter is a bit more difficult since the earlier ones are often broken and then drilled through or discarded when key cases are replaced. They are able to be salvaged however and then used to create the service key, which does not require a battery to function.

Immobiliser Systems

Immobiliser systems are electronic security measures that prevent thieves from starting your car. It operates by sending a signal from your vehicle to the key when you attempt to start it. The electronic chip in your key responds with a unique code which must match that in the vehicle in order to start. If the codes aren't compatible, the engine will stop immediately, and stop theft of your car.

Modern smart keys and fobs have an embedded transponder that stores electronic security information in a format that cannot be easily copied. When the key or fob is inserted into the ignition, they transmit this code to the ECU. The ECU is able to compare this code with the one in its memory, and activates the fuel system and the ignition circuit if they match. If the codes do not match then the engine will not start, even when the ignition circuit is short-circuited by a burglar.

The procedure of replacing a key or fob involves an entire process that involves cutting the new blade with precision and programming it so that it can be synced with the car's system. There are many different immobiliser systems that are used in different years and models and each needs its own unique programming procedure. We utilize Ross-Tech software to ensure that your replacement key is programmed correctly to ensure maximum performance and security.