How are those hardware store chip keys anyway?

[NEexpat]

How are those hardware store chip keys anyway?

Answer: Fine, in fact at $44.00 and change they are better than fine!

Local Ace hardware is doing a $25.00 off chip key Fathers Day promotion. So I went in and got one. Took all of about 5 min, and total was under $45.

If you have been putting this off and need a second or even a third for other drivers in your house etc., do it. Even without the special it would have been about $ 70.00.

This is the key I will always use and keep the original Toyota keys in a safe place,............................................ ....... just in case.

Cheers.

[attrapereves]

Could you post a picture of what the key looks like? I may be interested in getting a spare.

[NEexpat]

attrapereves,

Here is the link to the website with the image.

Here (http://www.hykokeys.com/new_keyfinder/img/keys/I-TOY150.GIF)

That is the exact key I received.

[KingForADay]

I'm a bit noobish at this, but I was under the impression Toyota had a proprietary code that only they could reset as far as extra keys and the engine immobilizer goes. I'd be happy about this though just in case I need a third.

Did you notice if they sold the same type of keys but with lock/unlock/panic buttons?

[NEexpat]

King,

I believe if you have lost the original "master" keys to the car then you are correct with having to go to the dealership etc.

I have the original keys so I think this hardware store program simply replicates the "code" if that is correct, in the master to the new chip key.

Of course I maybe completely off base here, but that is my understanding of it.

It is just the key no buttons etc. My key less is aftermarket, that I installed myself with the assistance of this forum. So I have the chip key and a separate fob.

I have looked into trying to get a combo key/fob for an aftermarket system. No luck.

cheers.

[NEexpat]

*Bumping this.

ACE Hardware around here is running their $25.00 off chip key special for 4th of July weekend again.

If you only have one chip key, get another, you won't regret it.

cheers.

[Exiwolfman]

so i have to ask how do they code the key to ur car?

[kimona]

My local Ace Hardware makes flat chip keys... but only up to 2013 models. I found a local mobile shop that made a key (in my driveway) for my 2014 for $60 including programming... and it took just 10 minutes!