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Prius Key Ignition on 06 Basic Model. Is plugin optional?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by PriusWolf, Dec 19, 2012.

  1. PriusWolf

    PriusWolf Junior Member

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    Okay so I had a 2005 Loaded Prius that was totaled. I now have a 2006 Basic model.
    I anticipated the changes with the stereo and such but 1 issue I've been wondering about is the Ignition.
    In my 2005 I never had to plug my Key fob into its port to turn on the car. Now with my 2006 I have to plug it in every time
    Now i did have this issue once with my 2005 key but it was due to the key battery being almost dead.
    So I thought this was the same issue but.. after changing the battery in the key of my '06 its still only letting the car turn on
    with the Key in its socket.

    Now im wondering is this due to having a Basic model, or is there something else that I need to replace?


    Also im looking for a good Maintenance book on the Gen 2 Prius? Any Suggestions?
     
  2. SteveLee

    SteveLee Active Member

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    I assume you have SmartKey. Is it switched on at the dash under the wheel?
     
  3. PriusWolf

    PriusWolf Junior Member

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    I have no idea if i do or not.. how would i tell the difference?
    There is a switch under the dash? wher would it be located specificly?
     
  4. SteveLee

    SteveLee Active Member

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    If it is a SKS your button to switch it on and off is under the steering wheel on the dash.
     
  5. Britprius

    Britprius Senior Member

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    If your key fob has silver writing on it you have smart key, if the writing is black you do not and the fob has to be put in the slot.
     
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  6. PriusWolf

    PriusWolf Junior Member

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    I have a black emblem on the back.. so i fear its NOT a smart key like that.. oh well.. Thanks guys.. it helped alot.
     
  7. SteveLee

    SteveLee Active Member

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    Well, that's simple enough. Thanks for the info. I didn't know that.
     
  8. Handygeek

    Handygeek Member

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    Is the only advantage of the "Smart Key" that one does not have to insert it in the slot to start the car?
     
  9. Britprius

    Britprius Senior Member

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    The smart key also enables you to enter the car just by walking up to it.
     
  10. Handygeek

    Handygeek Member

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    Thanks! I had not done a general Search (I use ixquick.com as they honor privacy) as I trust this site.

    Can I get and use a non-Smart Key fob if the one that came with it is a Smart Key (it has the silver emblem)?

    Also, I saw this site but noted the following text:
    Toyota Prius Smart Key Keyless Entry Key Remote Uncut | eBay



    This would mean $39. at Toyota for the existing key + this one, plus maybe a fee to reset the ECU?

    Even at that the total cost would be about $160. which is 1/2 getting it all from the dealer.

    Is there a less expensive way to add a key?

    If affordable I'd really like to add two keys. (Smart Key feature is optional - unless when the switch is on for Smart Key it creates a problem for a non-Smart Key - requiring all Smart Keys or none Smart Keys.)

    WDYT?
     
  11. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    i thought only the prius I didn't have sks?