I bought my Prius used and it only came with one key. I would like to make a duplicate of the fob to keep at home in case I lock my keys in the car. Can I used a generic lock unlock fob from PepBoys? or if I buy a used Prius keyfob can I program the buttons to work with my car. It's not the SKS key but just the keyless entry buttons. I found this tutorial on how to program keys.... http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-ii-prius-audio-electronics/11929-list-known-hacks-easter-eggs.html Also do regular locksmiths do laser cutting or only dealerships? I found cheap Prius key blanks on eBay as well.
You cannot use a non-Toyota fob. You can buy the black fob (silver is SKS) from a dealer or other source. Programming instructions are on this forum. Do a search to find them.
is there anyway to install the SKS system into an old car? is it like a single unit or I'm guessing it's probably way more complicated than that... Also are there any commercial places that do cheap laser engraving?
You can have a locksmith make a dup of the key in the FOB. If you lock your FOB in the car, you then can unlock the car with the mechanical key. This should only cost a few $. If you loose your FOB, you will have a significant expense to replace it, much more then making a duplicate. Or, you can do what I did see: http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-ii-prius-modifications/66652-smks-bypass-cheap-alternative.html
You can't install SKS in a non-SKS Prius, at least not realistically. It involves a transponder, coils, wiring harness, and another ECU. Tom