80 series key issues?

[UncleBobby]

My 94 LC came with a few extra keys when I bought it. My wife currently has my main set of keys and is out for the day so I grabbed my extras and they will unlock/lock the doors but it will not work in the ignition. Is there a fix for this? Im so confused and need to get to work. My steering isn't locked and I've never had an issue with my normal key

 

[vfrer]

The keys do wear out sometimes. Not sure of a easy fix other than jiggle and hope it catches. Best fix is go to Toyota dealership and give them your VIN and they will cut a new key.

 

[Kernal]

^^^This^^^. The original keys can wear out and aftermarket keys, if cut from a worn original, will eventually also not work so well.

 

[Bigtoepfer]

I haven't tried it for my 80. But I once had some NOS blanks cut for my 91 Cressida at Toyota. They didn't work but the old guy behind the desk looked at my original, then custom ground down the new keys to pretty much match the old one and they worked perfectly. Wearing out the cylinders means the fresh keys just didn't interface as well.

 

[TheBussman]

best to get new genuine keys cut from the key code. Even then the tumblers in the ignition can benefit from being replaced also.

 

[Brindleboxer]

I replaced worn keys by getting the number off the cylinder in the door (need to ensure they are the same as the ignition which it sounds like they are since your main set works). I actually pulled the lock assembly and brought to my local locksmith to ensure the new keys would work.

 

[tech_dog]

I had a new key made from the code, replacing one that had worn down by 1/3, and that made all my locks work better.

I also cleaned the tumblers with WD40 and relubricated with lock-specific graphite spray and that made a difference.

The two together made my locks feel like new.