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SKS FOB

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by Morganjah, Nov 30, 2021.

  1. Morganjah

    Morganjah Junior Member

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    II
    I read through quite a few threads here, and am looking for a little guidance on my specific situation.

    I have a 2005 Prius with SKS. I have a single FOB that works when plugged in, but was never programmed for the SKS remote unlock.
    After losing the metal door key at the Zoo today, it must have been loose on the fob and came out in my pocket, then probably pulled out of my pocket by my mask when we went into an indoor snake exhibit, it has come time that my family is looking into getting a second FOB, and hopefully getting the SKS working.
    What is the less than dealer rate to get this done? I was hoping to be able to have a Christmas for my kids, rather than giving my paycheck to the dealer. I guess I drive a 2005 Prius because I'm apparently not in the socio-economic class that can afford keys for their 16 year old cars. :)
    If it helps, I am in western North Carolina, Asheville-Boone area.
    Thanks!
     
    #1 Morganjah, Nov 30, 2021
  2. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    call around to some locksmiths. sometimes they are reasonable
     
    #2 bisco, Dec 1, 2021
  3. mr_guy_mann

    mr_guy_mann Senior Member

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    You really want to have some kind of second key made.

    Let's explain. First there is the mechanical key- the only thing it can do is unlock the driver's door- useful if the 12V battery goes dead. If you do not have one of those to be copied then you might be able to have a dealer cut new keys based on your Vehicle Identification Number. IDK if a locksmith can cut keys from the VIN or if you would have to remove the lock cylinder from the door.

    The second part is the "immobilizer". This is a RFID chip that is in the key fob case. When you put the fob in the dash slot, a coil sends wireless pulses to the chip- which powers the chip (doesn't need a battery in the fob to work) and exchanges info with it. If the car gets the correct signal from the chip in the fob, then it will allow the things to turn on and go "ready". Most locksmiths should be able to add another fob RFID to your car (the SKS might not work but you should be able to have second "put the fob in the slot and it runs")

    Last is the remote entry. On a non-SKS car this is just a one-way battery operated remote that locks and unlocks the doors. On SKS it's a two way system with fancy antennas that allow the car to recognize the proximity of the fob (which needs a good battery in order to function), then unlock the door and permit "ready" mode (+ the remote lock/unlock push button functions). This system has a separate ecu and had its own programming.

    The thing is, you can add a (new) SKS fob "easily", IF you already have one that is completely functional. If not then it requires a dealer level scantool and a special code (computed by the dealer server, or by a sketchy site somewhere in europe for the DIY crowd) in order to have the ecu accept new fobs. Some locksmiths have dealer level access to do this.

    I'm assuming that you do in fact have SKS (small square buttons on each front door exterior handle and tailgate release panel), that your fob has a silver toyota logo on the back. Is the battery in the fob ok? Does a little red LED blink when you press a button? Is the little pushbutton switch for the SKS (under the dash below the steering column) set to the ON position (ie is out?)

    Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
     
    #3 mr_guy_mann, Dec 1, 2021
    Last edited: Dec 2, 2021
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