Programming a Transponder Key for 99 TLC

[hobie1]

Hi eleblanc,


I'm in the same boat. Have 2001 HDJ as well and the Master Key that I have with remote does not open the doors but the key blinks. Went to Toyota and when they plugged in their Tester (forgot to see what model) it did not show the options to go into Key Programming. I'll bring again to another dealer next week and give you an update.

 

[ginbundy]

Where is the immobilizer ECU in a 1999 FZJ105

Great forum!

Usual story, last year I purchased a 1999 Landcruiser FZJ105 Snowy (Australian) from a dealer, and I only have the valet key (checked it using Charley's instructions). The key is a like a 4cs Landcruiser 100 Ignition Key, but with a longer blade (see pic).
Since my wife and I both need to drive the vehicle, I need more than one key.

I wanted to get the ECU replaced so that I can get new master keys, but I don't want the hassle (and cost) of going to Toyota so I worked out a plan:

1. I picked up a used immobilizer ECU from a 2000 HZJ105 model on ebay which came with a full set of master keys (pics attached).
2. I want to swap the ECU from my vehicle with the used one - that way I will have a set of master keys coded to the immobilizer (obviously the keys won't unlock the vehicle or ignition).
3. I can then cut open one of the master keys and remove the transponder and swap it into my existing key (which will unlock the car etc). I should then have a working master key that I can make copies from and code to the ECU.

I think this should work, I have opened up an old Landcruiser key and found the transponder, so I think it should be pretty straightforward.

I do have a problem though. I can't locate the existing immobilizer ECU!

I've looked through a 2003 manual, and it's not in the same place (behind the glove compartment, above the engine ECU?).

I don't know any Toyota mechanics that would help me out.

Anyone know where the immobilizer ECU should be?
Or does my model have the immobilizer incorporated into the engine ECU?!

 

[eleblanc]

I think it might be near the passenger side air bag, up there. But not sure.

If you find a way to copy your master let me know. You might be able to go to local dealer and with there tester program a new key..that is the only way i have found. Unfortunately for me no dealer here have the correct tools to read ecu and program a key....

 

[OursSauvage]

..that is the only way i have found.

So far, all the comments I receive go in the same way

 

[ginbundy]

I think it might be near the passenger side air bag, up there. But not sure.

If you find a way to copy your master let me know. You might be able to go to local dealer and with there tester program a new key..that is the only way i have found. Unfortunately for me no dealer here have the correct tools to read ecu and program a key....

Yeah, I think I'll probably have to. Got Friday off, might take it to Toyota then. I'll post results!

 

[eleblanc]

I have found this company Drew Technologies i beleive they are the one who make the software for the new Toyota Tester III. i have email them. And better, i beleive i'm in contact with the chinese company that fabricate the equipment for drewtech.

It is as simple as a cable and a software for a laptop, and i think you can even rent the usage of the software on a day / period basis....from drewtech

My other solution is to buy a new immobilizer ECU, i don't think they are that expensive, i do not have the price yet.

anyhow i'm going to figure out a way....i have too anyway! dohh..

 

[eleblanc]

Yeah, I think I'll probably have to. Got Friday off, might take it to Toyota then. I'll post results!

If you go to toyota to have them program a new key PLEASE sneak in the shop and find out exactly the model of tester they are using.

 

[pfran42]

Ok, I have read this thread 3 times and I still am confused re: my specific case...

I have a 99 with only the gray "valet" key. When I insert it into the ignition, the security light does NOT immediately go off. It turns off roughly 2 seconds after I insert the key into the ignition.

My gray key does not lock/unlock the glove box

Questions:

1. Can I tun my VALET key into a MASTER by following the procedures outlined in this thread? (Deleting all other keys from the ECU)

2. If I can do number 1, can I purchase a key fob blank and have it cut according to the VIN at the Toyota dealership? (My current valet key is worn and I would like a freshly cut key)

3. Can I have a "master" cut off the VIN so that I can lock/unlock the glove box?

I have a feeling that the only real solution is to get the ECU replaced but after reading on this thread that all keys have the potential to be masters, I am hoping that there is a way to turn the valet into a master, program fob-equipped keys using the newly converted master and then have a fully working set (2 masters, 1 valet) with both masters having the capability of unlocking the glove box.

If I need a new ECU, would I still be able to bypass the dealership and get these tasks accomplished using a reputable locksmith by having them reflash/reset the ECU even though I do no have a true master (a key that locks/unlocks the glovebox) to use to program all of the other keys?

 

[ginbundy]

If you go to toyota to have them program a new key PLEASE sneak in the shop and find out exactly the model of tester they are using.

I will try my best, but the dealership runs like a processing plant - customer drop-off is in a separate building to the servicing area. Your vehicle gets driven away and then returned after service. Don't like it, but it's my nearest dealer.

 

[richg]

Ok, I have read this thread 3 times and I still am confused re: my specific case...

If you have a 98-99 and do not have an existing master key, your have two options:

1. Get a locksmith to flash the ECU, then the first key you put in the ignition to start programing will become a master.
2. Get a new ECU.

The shop manual details the "fresh" ECU 1st key programming sequence.

Once you have a master key, you can then add additional keys as masters or sub-keys.

Rich

 

[eleblanc]

If you have a 98-99 and do not have an existing master key, your have two options:

1. Get a locksmith to flash the ECU, then the first key you put in the ignition to start programing will become a master.
2. Get a new ECU.

The shop manual details the "fresh" ECU 1st key programming sequence.

Once you have a master key, you can then add additional keys as masters or sub-keys.

Rich

I've search and search and the only way to reset the immobiliser is with the toyota tester. well at least on my truck.
Don'T know how a locksmith would know how to do this.

 

[ginbundy]

Great forum!

Usual story, last year I purchased a 1999 Landcruiser FZJ105 Snowy (Australian) from a dealer, and I only have the valet key (checked it using Charley's instructions). The key is a like a 4cs Landcruiser 100 Ignition Key, but with a longer blade (see pic).
Since my wife and I both need to drive the vehicle, I need more than one key.

I wanted to get the ECU replaced so that I can get new master keys, but I don't want the hassle (and cost) of going to Toyota so I worked out a plan:

1. I picked up a used immobilizer ECU from a 2000 HZJ105 model on ebay which came with a full set of master keys (pics attached).
2. I want to swap the ECU from my vehicle with the used one - that way I will have a set of master keys coded to the immobilizer (obviously the keys won't unlock the vehicle or ignition).
3. I can then cut open one of the master keys and remove the transponder and swap it into my existing key (which will unlock the car etc). I should then have a working master key that I can make copies from and code to the ECU.

I think this should work, I have opened up an old Landcruiser key and found the transponder, so I think it should be pretty straightforward.

I do have a problem though. I can't locate the existing immobilizer ECU!

I've looked through a 2003 manual, and it's not in the same place (behind the glove compartment, above the engine ECU?).

I don't know any Toyota mechanics that would help me out.

Anyone know where the immobilizer ECU should be?
Or does my model have the immobilizer incorporated into the engine ECU?!

Rang Toyota service and they recommended a locksmith who told me he can't reset the ECU or create a master, but he can replicate the valet key (and transponder) for $220. I don't mind not having a 'master' key - I don't need to lock the glovebox. I'll go down this path and put the stuff I bought back on ebay.

I'll watch how the locksmith does it and post details tomorrow.

 

[eleblanc]

Find out what equipment and model he uses. Ask him if that equipment would copy a land cruiser 2000 hdj100 master key

Thanks in advance

Rang Toyota service and they recommended a locksmith who told me he can't reset the ECU or create a master, but he can replicate the valet key (and transponder) for $220. I don't mind not having a 'master' key - I don't need to lock the glovebox. I'll go down this path and put the stuff I bought back on ebay.

I'll watch how the locksmith does it and post details tomorrow.

 

[ginbundy]

Find out what equipment and model he uses. Ask him if that equipment would copy a land cruiser 2000 hdj100 master key

Thanks in advance

Will do.

 

[pfran42]

If you have a 98-99 and do not have an existing master key, your have two options:

1. Get a locksmith to flash the ECU, then the first key you put in the ignition to start programing will become a master.
2. Get a new ECU.

The shop manual details the "fresh" ECU 1st key programming sequence.

Once you have a master key, you can then add additional keys as masters or sub-keys.

Rich

Today I called Toyota customer care, told them my story and got approved for a free ECU. Only problem is my less-than-honest Toyota dealership (see my 02 sensor thread) told me that it would be 2 hrs of labor and that I would have to purchase two Masters (with fobs) from them.

The quote came to somewhere in the neighborhood of $750

Before I left the dealership a guy in the parts dept. quietly showed me a number in his rolodex for a local locksmith. I called the locksmith, explained everything and they said that they could drive to my place of work, flash the ECU, cut me two OEM masters (with fobs) and not accept payment until I was 100% satisfied for $650.

I know I could order Camry keys from CDan or get blanks (with fobs) on ebay for around $100 but I would like OEM keys.

Does $650 sound reasonable for ending up with 2 working masters (with fobs), 1 gray valet, and finally being able to lock/unlock my glovebox and unlock my truck without sticking the damn key in the door handle every single time?

 

[ginbundy]

Does $650 sound reasonable for ending up with 2 working masters (with fobs), 1 gray valet, and finally being able to lock/unlock my glovebox and unlock my truck without sticking the **** key in the door handle every single time?

Seems a lot to pay, but it will provide a complete solution.

My LC came with only the valet key, no fob. I found a fob and matching keyless remote module on ebay and was able to swap it with the original module and it works perfectly - plug and play! A relief to be free of the key in the door hassle. Cost me $100, plus a bit of time under the dash.

If I get a duplicate valet key done tomorrow, I was wondering whether my original key ends up being a 'master', but it just won't lock the glove compartment? Reading Rich's post - this would seem to be the case. I'll make sure I get the full explanation from the locksmith.

So all up it should cost me $320, but I'll end up with only two keys and one remote fob (all I need, really).

 

[Topoguide]

Does $650 sound reasonable for ending up with 2 working masters (with fobs), 1 gray valet, and finally being able to lock/unlock my glovebox and unlock my truck without sticking the damn key in the door handle every single time?

Reasonable? Compared to other lock smiths (in the States) it might be a bit pricey, but still reasonable. To me it looks like he knows how much the dealer will charge and that he is pricing to come in just under them, of course it could be legitimate pricing as well. You could ask for a breakdown of the costs if you feel like he is trying to overcharge and then see what you think.

I think the real question is is it worth it? Ginbundy has a less expensive solution that will create more work for you and does not have a guarantee, you can go with the dealership or locksmith and get a guarantee, or you can keep living with it. Are you ready to get it fixed? If so do you want a guarantee, and are you willing to pay for it?

Good luck.

 

[richg]

I've search and search and the only way to reset the immobiliser is with the toyota tester. well at least on my truck.
Don'T know how a locksmith would know how to do this.

98-99's, even the toyota tester special tool cannot add new keys without an existing master.

I went through all of this myself when I bought my 98 which only had a non-master key. I was approved for free ECU replacement, but the dealer wanted $350 for the labor.

I balked at that, then found a locksmith who could flash the ECU for $150 provided I handed him the ECU and then did all the keys/programming on my own.

After 5 years of procrastination, I still only have my one key .

Rich

 

[ginbundy]

Rang Toyota service and they recommended a locksmith who told me he can't reset the ECU or create a master, but he can replicate the valet key (and transponder) for $220. I don't mind not having a 'master' key - I don't need to lock the glovebox. I'll go down this path and put the stuff I bought back on ebay.

I'll watch how the locksmith does it and post details tomorrow.

OK, here goes...

The locksmith had to decode the key blade before making a copy as the valet key was quite worn. This took a while, but once he had the code he cut a copy on a blank key. The system he used was 'Instacode' software and 'Viper' hardware. He told me it would only cut a key from the correct code so he spent a bit of time measuring the cut in my valet key with the Viper machine and also verifying measurements with a micrometer.

The interesting thing about this was that once he had the valet key code he was able to set the Viper to cut the new key as a master (so that it will lock the glovebox as well).

Next was the transponder. He said that he could not create a master transponder key, but he could duplicate the valet transponder code. For this he used a separate piece of hardware called a 'Zed Bull' (a transponder cloning device, google it), model 'Qx-Plus'. This read the original transponder key code. The Zed Bull device then was used to write the copied code to a 'blank' transponder (one of the glass tube types). The locksmith then inserted the new transponder into the plastic head of the newly cut key.

So basically I'm fooling the ECU into thinking I'm using the same valet key, while I'm using a duplicate.

A couple of negatives:
I still don't have a master (transponder) key.
The duplicate keys are not genuine toyota keys (Silca brand), so not as pretty.

The positives:
Cost to decode the key and make a copy, $220 as quoted.
I got an extra key for an additional $100
I can lock the glovebox (meh).

 

[options2]

I am thankful and lucky that even though I only got two valet keys with my LC, that one of them was programmed as a master transponder. I was able to get a new OEM key w/fob for $160 from beno and programmed both the transponder and remote myself. My personal preference is I really like having the OEM key and not some knock off that has been Frankenstein-ed together.

The one thing I would suggest if your getting one of these keys cut. Buy the cheapest no name Toyota key you can and get it cut first. Then test it on your locks before you get your expensive key cut.