Lexus Key Replacement - Replacing a Remote Or Fob

The battery in the key fob will eventually wear out, regardless of whether you have a conventional Lexus Key that switches the ignition on or an intelligent one for your vehicle, which starts by pressing the button. It's simple to replace it using the use of a paperclip. Simply remove the old battery, insert the new battery (refer to the owner's manual to determine the type of battery you need) and then clip it back in the appropriate spot.

Keys

Lexus keys aren't easy to replace and require a professional locksmith for replacing car keys to make a working spare. This is because each Lexus key has a microchip that needs to be programmed to work in conjunction with the immobiliser of your vehicle in case it does not. If it doesn't, the vehicle will not start.

This process requires time and requires special equipment to perform correctly, and every model has its own method of programming. Replacing a key or remote fob is an expensive service and should be left to experts unless you have the right tools and know-how.

Whether you have a conventional key that turns in the ignition barrel or a smart key that can start the car at the touch of a button, both will eventually need their batteries replaced. This can be done yourself however, you'll require the smallest Phillips Screwdriver, a coin worth 20p and a paperclip. On the front of the fob, you will find two or three screws remove them and place them in a secure place (they're small and easily lost). Remove the fob, revealing an indentation of a circular shape where the key's metal surface will be. Take the battery out with the help of a paperclip. Insert the new battery, making sure that it's placed correctly. Then clip the inside of the key back to the fob.

Remotes

Replacing the Lexus remote or fob is difficult and requires skilled locksmiths equipped with the right tools and expertise. Certain models require that the chip inside the key be programmed to function with the vehicle's immobiliser system. The Lexus models use different methods to program these chips. This is accomplished by using a special device which sends a code chip to unlock the doors or to start the engine.

Some Lexus cars are designed with a key head that is a combination of the key head and remote. They are simpler to replace because there is no chip that needs to be replaced. This type of key is also cheaper.

Whatever the type of key regardless of the type of key, all fobs eventually run out of battery power. It can be a frustrating experience however, with a bit of knowledge you can get your Lexus back to normal. Read the owner's guide to determine the type of battery you require. Find the replacement. Then, find a small hole in the inside of the fob. insert a coin (a 20p piece works best) and twist. There should be an area flat that you can get rid of using an ordinary paperclip.

Next, pop the old battery out and insert the new one. Make sure to insert the battery with the proper orientation. Clip the two sides of the fob together, then insert the metal key.

Transponder Chips

Transponder chips are found in the key heads of almost all new cars manufactured since 1995. They are used to disarm immobiliser systems. If you have a key with a chip inside, the head has a plastic cover that can be taken off to reveal an L-shaped key. A transponder-chip replacement key, also known as a fob is a multi-stage procedure. It involves cutting the keys with precision and programming the chip to communicate with the vehicle immobiliser.

A transponder is an electronic chip with Non-Volatile Memory (NVM) that has a set of windings (very fine wire coiled around a tube) that resemble ones in an electric motor. These windings produce a coded message that the car read. If the code is correct then the car will allow you to start it up.

There are two types of transponder chip. The first is called the 80-bit while the other is called the circle + (General Motors). The former is reusable however it must be unlocked by a special machine to function in a compatible vehicle. The latter type is more difficult, as the older keys are often damaged and then drilled through or thrown away when key cases are replaced. They can be salvaged however for use with a service key that does not require a battery to function.

Immobiliser Systems

An immobiliser is a digital security device that prevents thieves from starting your car. It operates by sending a signal from your vehicle to your key when you attempt to start it. The electronic chip inside your key responds with an individual code that must match the one in the vehicle to start. If the codes aren't compatible, the engine will shut down immediately, preventing theft of your vehicle.

Modern smart keys and fobs have an embedded transponder that stores electronic security information in a format which can't be copied easily. When the fob or key are placed in the ignition, they send this code to the ECU. The ECU then compares it to the code that is stored in its memory, and activates the ignition system and fuel circuit if the two coincide. If the codes don't match, your engine will not start, even if a thief tries to short-circuit the ignition circuit.

The replacement of keys or fobs involves a multi-stage process that includes cutting the new blade with precision and programming it to ensure that it syncs with your car's system. Every immobiliser system is unique and has its own unique programming procedure. We utilize Ross-Tech software to ensure that your replacement key is programmed correctly to ensure the best performance and security.