Another key fob thread (please don't hurt me)

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brady01

Joined
Mar 29, 2026
Threads
2
Messages
43
Location
North GA
Okay guys and gals. I have read every thread here with the word "fob" and "keyless" in it and that is a lot.

I cannot for the life of me get my keyless entry programmed. I have 3 keys, all 3 make the security light go off so I'm thinking all 3 are master keys. All 3 start the vehicle as well, but none of the 3 have working keyless entry buttons. The red light comes on when you press the buttons but they won't operate the locks.

I put new batteries in, and tested it on a transmitter at the dealership. All was good.

Ive tried every programming procedure I've found online and still have never got it to enter programming mode.

1998 Lx470.

Someone help me before I break something.
 
Were this all working before and recently stopped working? Here's the online instructions:

1998 LX470 Remote Programming Steps
  1. Preparation: Driver door open, all other doors closed and unlocked. Key removed from ignition.
  2. Enter Mode: Insert key into ignition (do not turn), then remove it.
  3. Lock Cycle: Using the driver's door panel switch, cycle the locks: Lock, Unlock, Lock, Unlock, Lock, Unlock, Lock, Unlock, Lock, Unlock (5 times).
  4. Open/Close: Close the driver door, then open it. Repeat the 5 lock cycles again.
  5. Ignition Cycle: Insert key and turn from ON to OFF (or ON to OFF twice, depending on configuration). The locks will cycle automatically to confirm.
  6. Program Fob: Press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the remote simultaneously for 1 second.
  7. Confirm: Press and hold the LOCK button for 2 seconds. The locks should cycle once to confirm successful programming.
  8. Repeat: Repeat steps 6 and 7 for additional remotes
 
Trunk Monkey said:
Were this all working before and recently stopped working?
Click to expand...
I'm not sure, I just bought it a few weeks ago.

I've tried that procedure at least 25 times and it never locks acknowledging that it's in programming mode. I've tried it with the switch, manually from inside, and even with a key in the exterior door handle.
 
Something I read but have not had confirmed...

The system can only remember so many FOBs.
Once you hit that limit you cant add anymore.
I went through this for weeks trying to program but nothing worked.

I tried to do a "erase" of the old FOBs, it worked but it ALSO wiped all the transponder chips in my keys.
IE: Forget all of them. I had to remove the EUC and have it flashed to see the keys as masters again.
 
x8o8drifter said:
Something I read but have not had confirmed...

The system can only remember so many FOBs.
Once you hit that limit you cant add anymore.
I went through this for weeks trying to program but nothing worked.

I tried to do a "erase" of the old FOBs, it worked but it ALSO wiped all the transponder chips in my keys.
IE: Forget all of them. I had to remove the EUC and have it flashed to see the keys as masters again.
Click to expand...
Very interesting. What did that run you?

I'll pay quite a bit to be able to use my clicker. Lol!
 
Why not call the dealer and ask what they charge to program a key? If I remember it’s $3-400 from what I have read.
 
Fj80oregon said:
Why not call the dealer and ask what they charge to program a key? If I remember it’s $3-400 from what I have read.
Click to expand...
I will eventually, but closest Lexus / Toyota dealer is 1.5hrs away. Hard to find the time to sneak away with a 5yr old, 2yr old, and one on the way... ALL BOYS TOO!
 
x8o8drifter said:
Something I read but have not had confirmed...

The system can only remember so many FOBs.
Once you hit that limit you cant add anymore.
I went through this for weeks trying to program but nothing worked.

I tried to do a "erase" of the old FOBs, it worked but it ALSO wiped all the transponder chips in my keys.
IE: Forget all of them. I had to remove the EUC and have it flashed to see the keys as masters again.
Click to expand...
That is interesting.
I bought some extra keys for my 98 LX and they wouldn't program either. I followed the steps @Trunk Monkey laid out and no go - the locks cycled in step 5 indicating it entered program mode, but they wouldn't take.
Sounds like I will need to flash as I am sure I am over the 3 remote limit as the PO supplied one extra non-Lexus key that was working.
 
brady01 said:
Very interesting. What did that run you?

I'll pay quite a bit to be able to use my clicker. Lol!
Click to expand...
It cost me something like $120.

But I only did it because I messed up and made it forget the transpoder part of thje key too.

I do believe if you have a later 100 you can to the wireless and the transponder thing through Techstream.
darrenk said:
That is interesting.
I bought some extra keys for my 98 LX and they wouldn't program either. I followed the steps @Trunk Monkey laid out and no go - the locks cycled in step 5 indicating it entered program mode, but they wouldn't take.
Sounds like I will need to flash as I am sure I am over the 3 remote limit as the PO supplied one extra non-Lexus key that was working.
Click to expand...
Also worth mentioning is that they apparently swapped FOB signals one year. Make sure the FOBs you have are the correct signal for your year.
 
Called the most recommended locksmith in my area and he came out today and tried through OBD2 but still had no luck.. idk what else to try but I really want my lock and unlock to work on my key.
 
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