TOYOTA TRANSPONDER KEYS:
I recently ingested the following information at some cost and time, and thought some of you might find it of value. The saga started because I'm the kind of guy that likes to have lots of spare keys for my stuff.
Toyota mechanical locks (the tumbler part) can be locked/unlocked even if the key you are using does not have a transponder chip buried in the plastic handle. If you fear simply locking your key inside the card, you can have a flat plain brass TR47 key cut at the hardware store that will unlock the doors; it just won't let you start the engine.
The 1998 thru 2004 Toyota Theft Deterrent Systems use a "transponder reply chip" in the handle of the key that responds to an inquiry signal sent when the key is inserted into the ignition switch. Each key apparently has a random code burned into it, and the engine ECM (Engine Control Module) in the car can store up to 7 of these codes. The Toyota ECM's usually come with 1 or 2 key codes already programmed into them, and for $50-75 you can buy another key (up to the Mid-03's) that, by executing the correct programming sequence, will add the code for the new key. The ECM must have at least one pre-programmed key in order to work and program other keys. If you don't have even one key that works, you 1) may be able to have the dealer originate a new master key with his special dealer diagnostic equipment, or 2) junk your ECM and pay big $'s for a new one (have no idea if either, neither, or both of these options is actually correct). When I first saw the following programming sequences I thought this must be a big joke; I've seen the way many other transponder keys are programmed and none of them come close to this foolishness!
98-01 CAMRY's: The programming sequence for adding another key (Toyota key part number 89785-26020) to the Camry, according to the ILCO key company catalog, and a Toyota maintenance manual I have seen, is as follows: Simultaneously depress and release the brake and accelerator pedals 1 time (one instruction kind of hints that you should hold the pedals down while you insert the master key, the next step). Insert the master key in the ignition, but do not turn it . Within 15 seconds press & release the accelerator pedal 5 times. Then within 20 seconds press & release the brake pedal 6 times. Within 10 seconds remove the master key, and insert the new key. Within 10 seconds press & release the accelerator 1 time. The security light will stay off after 60 to 80 seconds indicating the re-programming was successful. Remove the new key, and depress & release the brake pedal 1 time.02 TO EARLY-03 CAMRY's: The programming sequence for adding another key (Toyota key part number 89785-26020) to the Camry, according to the key company catalog is as follows: Make sure all windows and doors are closed, and insert the master key in the ignition. Cycle the ignition key ON/OFF 5 times and leave the key in the lock. Open/Close the driver side door 6 times. Remove the original key and insert the new duplicate key, BUT DO NOT TURN THE KEY ON. The theft light will stay off after 60 to 80 seconds indicating the re-programming was successful. Do not laugh while executing this sequence.
MID-03 TO 2004 CAMRY's: Currently there is no programming sequence (that I can find) that the customer can use. A new key is used (Toyota key part number 89785-60160) that has a small letter "o" stamped on the brass part of the key up near the handle. I'm told that only the dealer can program in a new transponder code into the ECM via the OBD (On Board Diagnostic) computer.
The ACE hardware here in Phoenix, and others, sell the non-"o" key for much less than $75, but you have to program the ECM in the car yourself. Camelback Toyota gouged me $150 to supply & program a key for my Mid-03 Camry. Larry Miller Toyota sells the key for $75 and programs it for free. Bell Road Toyota sells the key for $75, but I haven't found out if they charge for programming (I think they do). If the ECM is truly programmed through the OBD, then I think it is only a matter of time before somebody like Pep Boys or Autozone will do it too!
According to the ILCO catalog, all of the key numbers programmed into a 98 to Early-03 ECM (other than the number of the key you are using) can be deleted by using the following sequence: Simultaneously depress & release the brake and accelerator pedals 1 time. Insert a working key into the ignition but do not turn it. Within 15 seconds depress & release the accelerator pedal 6 times. Within 20 seconds depress & release the break pedal 7 times. The security light will flash indicating that all key numbers, other than the one being used, have been deleted from the ECM memory. Within 10 seconds remove the key from the ignition switch. This is now the only key that will work.
If any of you have more/better information of the subject, please speak up. Thanks in advance. Sparkey