I currently own one key for a 2002 Prius and need to get it copied soon! I'd like to do it cheaply. I'm wondering if I could just copy my key without it having a chip/computer. This way it would cost $2 instead of $100.
The drawback, I suppose, would be if I ever lost the "computer key" I would then be obliged to manually unlock the car forever. Is that such a bad fate though? That's how all old cars worked.
Is there something I'm missing here? Obviously my knowledge of Prius's is quite limited, so anyone who can give me some feedback, I would be very thankful toward.
If I recall correctly, there is a code electronically stored on a chip on the key. If the correct key isn't in the ignition, the engine won't start. So, you can get in the doors and the trunk, but you won't be able to drive the car.
If you just want a mechanical key, then go to any locksmith or hardware store and have the key copied for <$5. That'll open the doors/trunk (assuming that you copy a master key and not a valet key!).
However, if you only have one key, I highly suggest that you have a full spare key made which has the transponder chip in it. The transponder chip is what releases the engine immobilizer and allows the car to start when you turn the key. If you lose your last/only registered key, you may need to have the security ECU replaced, or pay a lot in dealer labor charges to reset your existing security ECU. Best/cheapest is to get and program a whole new key.
I don't know how much it is from a dealer, but you can get a new key for the Classic Prius at http://www.coastaletech.com/carkeys.htm for $18 + $6 shipping.
You can do the programming yourself on a Classic Prius. Programming instructions are available at http://www.coastaletech.com/keys.htm But do note that it may take you a few tries to get the timing right for the programming to stick.
Repeatedly opening the door within a specified time interval can be 'spoofed' more easily by pushing the door-close button on the door jam. Then the car thinks the door is opening and closing, get it?
Rather than opening/closing the driver's door, which you could get the timing wrong, it is easier to depress the plunger to make the car think that the door is closed.
You know how the light comes on when you open your refrigerator door? You can press in the little switch that the door would otherwise trigger when closing and manually turn the light off in your refrigerator. Same type of thing.
It is probably faster to trigger the switch, than to try and manually swing open/closed the door in the specified time period to program your new keys.
Have been looking for this. Been trying to have my keys duplicated and was ignorant enough not to know that bringing it to a locksmith wouldn't really serve the purpose of having the key duplicated. Thanks guys. You are awesome! St. Louis City Towing
my understanding is that the part number is ILCO TOY43AT4-USA for the key blank, which is usually around $22 (price last updated in 2002 on the toyota-prius yahoogroup's parts database, so maybe higher now?). it can be ordered from a locksmith, which is usually cheaper than from a dealer.
of course, you still have to have the key blank cut for the door/trunk/ignition, but that's easy and can be done at any locksmith/hardware store/dealer for probably <$5.
You can use the CoastalETech instructions (which are taken from the Prius' repair manual) to program the new key DIY. Save yourself a lot of dealer labor charges for them to do it.
(I might suggest using your current master key to first delete all other keys, before adding in your new key, for security reasons. (if other lost key is found or previous owner has it, they cannot drive off in your car...) Of the very few reported stolen Prius, those we know the cause was because the key was stolen from the owner.)
Glad I came across this thread because I had the same issue with just needing a blank replacement key for my ride. After searching online, I was able to find the OEM Toyota blank key and had it cut to fit my vehicle at a local locksmith. The OE quality is a lot better than aftermarket in my opinion so I'm happy with my purchase. I'm a pretty busy person so I had the key shipped conveniently to my door and it arrived quickly. Here's my OE replacement key https://www.toyotapartsprime.com/oem/toyota-6951552120-key~blank.html
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