Programming the Smart Key

priuschat.com

 

I can't believe no one mentioned you have to buy a FOB with the same FCC ID as yours. My remote actually came off my keychain, so now I am looking at a new used remote and have it reprogrammed ($100)

 

You need to buy a compatible fob, which in this case means one from Toyota for your version of the Prius. The FCC ID is just the registration for the transmitting portion of the fob. It has nothing to do with with compatibility, other than coincidental nature. Generally fobs are designed as an integrated device, so it is likely that any given fob design will have a unique FCC ID, but it isn't a requirement. It is neither necessary or sufficient.

Tom

 

Go on ebay, there aren't that many different remotes with different FCC ID

 

I found someone locally that said they are able to program the Prius Smartkey and willing to do it for free since they already have the equipment... is this something that sounds legit or too good to be true?

 

sounds legit, and very nice of them. what do you have to lose? but who would own that expensive equipment except a locksmith? perhaps they make two copies, one for you and one for them?

 

That's what I was worried about... however, all good. The kind man just wanted to share the love and stop the madness of the stealership and locksmiths charging an arm and a leg... now I know the truth behind the programming and am completely blown away by the deceit!!!

 

good for you! that was very nice of him.

 

The key difference is if the Key Fob remote has been previously programmed. If it is brand new and not previously programmed, then you can program it with a laptop and a $25 cable and software (available on eBay). I purchased a new fob from the dealer in Santa Clarita and programmed it in about 10 min. In a previous thread I posted pictures and details on the process.

If you have a used remote (one that has been previously programmed) then you will need a specialist to reprogram it to your car. In a previous post I listed a specialist in SoCal who can perform this service. Most dealers cannot reprogram a used remote (I don't know of any who can). Cost ranges from $100-250 for this process. For this reason, it really is not smart to purchase a fob from anyone other than a dealer.

 

The only way to program a used (ebay) FOB is by doing a "seed reset" with techstream. Dealers COULD do it, but many don't know how or don't want to be bothered since they have to have locksmith credentials and they won't sell you a fob if you bring them a used one.

A few independent shops around the country (Like us in Boulder CO) have equipment to program used fobs, and it works 100% of the time, as long as the fob is not damaged. In September 2014 I programmed a bunch of used fobs (in the parking lot!) for ToGoBefore2014 attendees so don't believe the dealer when they say it won't work.

 

Can you link your previous thread?

 

I was on the Toyota Tech site just the other day. There is a chart at the link below which shows the requirements/capabilities of Techstream. It says that only a Security Professional Subscription can access the Key Codes, and Immobilizer / Smart Reset. I called around Fort Wayne and found one locksmith who said he has the right software, but I have not met up with him yet to try it. I bought a used silver logo fob for my 2007 Prius, but could only get the key to start the car if it is inserted in the dash. The open/close/click/stomp/curse/bang your head method could not activate the remote functions, likely since this is a used key and has been paired with another car already. He said that he thinks he can reprogram the keys/car.

Link will be in my reply to this post...

 

TIS

 

Too bad you're not closer to http://www.autobeyours.com in southern Indiana, Steve could make your car happy. If you have techstream/mini-vci you can purchase seedcode answers from Europe for 20 euros. Calculation of Passcode for Toyota, Lexus, Scion vehicles - Dealer Codes - Service No need to be a security professional or pay Toyota any extra fees.

Make sure you have immobilizer part done first (i.e. all keys work when inserted into dash) before you reset the smartkey system, then you have to re-add all your fobs to the smartkey system.

 

Yes, you can program the key yourself, but you are taking a chance by buying it on eBay.

It might be $30-$50 more, but you are NOT cabling, if you bought the ket specifically made for your particular model car from an on line Toyota dealer like this one.

Camelback Toyota Parts - Genuine OEM Parts - Free Shipping

For Gen III Prii, the key can only be programmed when connected to Techstream. If you get a NEW key from a Toyota dealer, no reseeding or any on line connection to the Toyota web site is necessary.

Many PriusChat users have programmed NEW keys using this cable that comes with software as I did.

Unlike Gen II Prii, you can't add a key without connecting the car to Techstream.

Getting it right without a big hassle is worth the extra money I spent by getting the exact "correct" NEW key from a Toyota dealer.

 

I agree, if you don't have a used key already, easiest is to buy a new virgin fob and program yourself. You can do this on Gen2 without any tools and without techstream, just follow chicken dance procedure at the top of the gen2 forum.

Gen3 requires Techstream/Mini-VCI, but no seedcode if virgin fob.
You can get the Gen3 door key cut by PC member ovni

Ebay dealers are selling gen2 virgin fobs for around $110, pretty good deal. Gen2 Door key can be copied by any hardware store.
If anyone has a used Gen2 smartkey fob they wanna sell, I pay $50-60 if they are in good cosmetic condition. Pmail me.

 

Alright guys, its my first post here but I do have some knowledge of vehicles. I currently own a 2010 Toyota Prius III with 230,000. Yes, you read right.

My issue is I purchased the vehicle second hand from the original owner who lived in West Virginia. Great car, but only one key was handed to me at time of purchase. This single key has been lost. Now, I have read everywhere that a new key can be programmed via TechStream but my *issue is whether or not the vehicle needs an original key to program the new, virgin key?

Any help will be greatly appreciated.

 

One active key is needed to program the key is needed to program a new key with Techstream, because the ECU needs to verify that one who is adding a key is a legitimate user.

Unfortunately, you gambled and LOST.

For a Gen III Prius, you will NOW most likely have to replace the entire Smart Key ECU and purchase additional Smart Keys.

2010 Toyota Prius Parts - Camelback Toyota Parts - Genuine OEM Parts - Free Shipping

 

Figured that much. I could also reseed the ECU but that is going to take some time and knowledge.

Thanks for the info.

 

This is incorrect. When "all keys lost" you need someone with Techstream and appropriate credentials to do a SEED RESET via software (no need to change out hardware), then you can add fobs (new or used) to the car and make it drive. You can buy used FOBs on Ebay.

If you can only find Techstream, you can purchase a single SEED PASSCODE from Sigmabit.eu for around $30

Too bad you weren't in Colorado, we make housecalls to people who have "lost all keys" and make the car drive again in 20 minutes for hundred$ less than the dealer. (proof of ownership required for obvious reasons).

If anyone else only has one fob, I highly suggest you purchase a 2nd as a backup so you don't end up in this predicament.