Lexus Key Replacement - Replacing a Remote Or Fob
The battery in your key fob will eventually wear out, regardless of whether you have the standard Lexus Key that operates the ignition or an intelligent key for your vehicle that starts by pressing the button. Replacing it is as simple as a paperclip: Take the old battery out and insert the new one (refer to the owner's manual to determine which kind of battery you need) and then secure it back in the correct position.
Keys
Lexus keys are not easy to replace and require a specialist locksmith for replacing car keys to make a functioning spare. This is due to the fact that every Lexus key contains an electronic chip that needs to be programmed to synchronise with your vehicle's immobiliser system - if not it will not be able to start.
It requires a lot of time and special equipment for this process to be carried out correctly. Each model has its own procedure for programming. Replacing a lost or damaged key or fob can be a costly task and should be left to professionals unless you possess the proper tools and knowledge.
If you have a traditional key that turns on the ignition barrel or a smart key that will start the car at the push of one button either way, they will need their batteries replaced. You can save money by doing it yourself, but it requires an inexpensive Phillips screwdriver as well as the coin (a 20p piece works well) and a paperclip. There are one or two screws on the back of the fob for the key. Unscrew them, and store them securely (they are small and easy to lose). Remove the fob and you will see an indentation with a circular shape that houses the key made of metal. Take the battery out (using the paperclip) and then put in the new battery, making sure that it's pointing the right way up. Then clip the inside of the key back together.
TheKeyLab remotes and fobs can be difficult to replace and require locksmiths who are both well-versed and have the proper tools. Some models require the transponder inside the key to be programmed so that it can work with the immobiliser of the vehicle. The Lexus models use different methods to program these chips. This is done 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 key head that is a combination of the key head and the remote. They are much easier to replace because there is no chip that needs to be replaced. This kind of key is also a bit cheaper.
Regardless of the key type, all fobs eventually run out of battery power. It can be frustrating, but with a little bit of knowledge you can get your Lexus up and running again. The first step is to consult the owner's manual for the kind of battery you require and then locate an alternative. Find a small hole on the inside of the fob. Insert the coin (20p is a good choice) into the hole and twist. This should reveal a flat area that you can utilize a paperclip to take away.
Next, pop the old battery off and insert the new one. Make sure to insert the battery with the correct direction of operation. Finally, cut the inside of the fob back to its original position and insert the key back into the metal.
Transponder Chips
The majority of new cars made since 1995 include transponder chips inside the key head that allow it to deactivate the immobiliser system. The head of a key that includes a transponder chips can be removed to reveal a metallic L-shaped key. A replacement key or fob with transponder chips is a multi-stage process that includes accurate cutting of the replacement keys and programming of the transponder chip so that it can synch up with the vehicle's immobiliser.
A transponder is a type of chip that has Non-Volatile Memory. It has a set of windings which are fine wires that are wrapped around the tube. They look similar to those in an electric motor. The windings are coded to create a signal that the car can read. If the code is correct the car will start.
There are two kinds of transponder chip. The one is known as the 80-bit and the second is called the circle + (General Motors). The former type is reusable however it must be unlocked by a specific machine in order to work in another compatible vehicle. The second is more difficult to use as the old ones can be damaged, broken or removed when key cases are changed. They can be salvaged, however and then used to create a service key that doesn't require a battery in order to operate.
Immobiliser Systems
Immobiliser systems are electronic security measures that deter thieves from starting your vehicle. It works by sending an electronic signal from your car to the key whenever you try to start it. The electronic chip inside your key responds with an individual code that must match that in the vehicle to start. If the codes don't match, the engine will shut down immediately and stop the theft of your car.
Modern smart keys and fobs feature an embedded transponder chip that stores security information in a format that cannot be easily duplicated. When your fob or key is placed in the ignition, it transmits this code to a receiver within the ECU. The ECU compares this code with the one in its memory, and then activates both the fuel system and the ignition circuit if they are compatible. If the codes don't match, the engine will not start - even if someone tries to short-circuit the ignition circuit.
The replacement of a key or fob involves multiple steps that include cutting the new blade accurately and programming it so that it works with your car's security system. There are a variety of immobiliser systems used in different models and years and each one requires the use of a unique programming method. We use Ross-Tech software to ensure that your replacement key is programmed correctly for the best performance and security.