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Taking a shot at lower cost key replacement

Discussion in 'Prius c Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by Leadfoot J. McCoalroller, Feb 1, 2024.

  1. Leadfoot J. McCoalroller

    Leadfoot J. McCoalroller Senior Member

    Joined:
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    Location:
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    Vehicle:
    2018 Prius c
    Model:
    Two
    (Names have been changed to protect the innocent.)

    A member of my household has permanently separated us from one of the original Prius keys.

    So I'm taking my shot at getting a good replacement at lower cost than a dealer visit.

    The key counter (which might be an actual locksmith, not sure) at the very local hardware store has told me he would be able to cut and program an integrated remote blank, but he doesn't stock any.

    So I've ordered an appropriate replacement from The Internet for about $30. That, combined with a $3 cutting charge and a $50 programming charge looks like it would get us set.

    I don't think I could do this for less myself with a techstream rental...
     
  2. hill

    hill High Fiber Member

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    There are DIY programming links on YouTube
     
  3. Randy7633

    Randy7633 Junior Member

    Joined:
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    Location:
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    Vehicle:
    2014 Prius c
    Model:
    II
    I did this by buying a key from "KeyYou" on AliExpress. I also bought a "kit" to reprogram it. It was a link to some software and lots of instructions on how to install it. The kit also included a cable to connect from the laptop to the car.
    It wasn't super easy but it worked.
    The software also allowed me to make lots of programming changes to the car, stuff like how the power locks work (Now they don't lock when I start driving) and other interesting changes. It was over a year ago and I can't remember what else I changed but I did change a few things. Two keys (with cutting) were $15 and the software was $25
    Best of luck.
     
    Roqu3 likes this.
  4. Roqu3

    Roqu3 Member

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    You also got the "kit" from Aliexpress?
     
  5. Roqu3

    Roqu3 Member

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    So what happened?