Thanks for the info Chris, but I am still waiting for a class action lawsuit against Toyota for these keys. My friend has had the shell of his Lexus key break 3 times so far. The total is around $112 for the 3 shells. If you look at the shell, only a TINY portion of plastic holds the metal key in place. It is GUARANTEED TO BREAK. This is a big deal. 1 million keys at $30-$40 for the cut and shell is $40,000, 000 FORTY MILLION DOLLARS. You'd think that Toyota could make a KEY that lasts forever, huh?
these particular lexus keys from 1998-2001 reeaally feel like they were designed specifically to crack and break from mild ignition turning. When i went into Lexus of Tustin(CA) to get it fixed the saleman kept trying to sell me rubbish that they have to replace the whole key costing $399, when i kept telling him "i just want a replacement shell, the remote and metal part are still useable." guy kept making up bs. This guy in the video is honest.
Thanks for the vid! I fixed this problem for 8 bucks. Bought a new key case on ebay($8)transferred key blade and transmitter and like magic it worked! Took about 10 minutes to do.
Extremely poor product design. As an engineer if had designed anything this poorly my career would have been ruined. Lexus should replace broken keys for free.
Agreed 100%. Unfortunately, ALL cars are made with cheap plastic in many parts, so that they can make more money, and the politicians love it, because it's tax revenues! But Lexus is a luxury brand, and I am disappointed that they make sh*tty keys. Could have been metal or composite fiber casing or something. This kind of human thinking that brings down the human race. Same for hot dog buns sold 1 less than the number of hot dogs in a package! Very bad for such petty marketing thinking.
Some owners don't know that on many Lexus models such as my LX that you only need to "blip" the key once to start the vehicle, not hold the key until it starts, as the starter will continue cranking on its own until the car is running. I think it's owners who are keeping the key turned all the way to the start position and forcefully holding it there are causing the keys to break. All of mine are still intact aside from one after 14-years and 250,000 miles of daily use.
I remember that $ was in the ballpark it cost me to reinstall two new master keys to my GFs ES300 (2 shells + 2 transmitters + 2 IMMO chips + 2 master locksmith cuts + reprogram the ECM). I will admit that the ECM work took me the better portion of an afternoon, still Lexuses and Toyotas are so simple and straight forward to work with.
You buy a "lexus" but they cant even give u a damn key thats not a piece of shit, makes alot of sense and im sure all lexus owners appreciate how much of an inconvenience this is.
Thank you for doing this video! I have two (yes two) broken keys, one is rubber banded together, and I was thinking I'd have to spend more than $250 to get them replaced. Just spoke to my dealer in Alpharetta and they confirmed what you just explained. They can fix both for about $100. Yea!!!!
I'm not saying that he doesn't "make it sound more involved than it is". How ever what he says is not "totally fabricated". I recently had this problem, and I can tell You that the blade of the key is PHYSICALLY MOULDED into the "back half" of the "whole key fob". This means that You can NOT just replace the "COVER", You actually need a new blade since it is "moulded into the cover", and hence the new blade also has to be "CUT" ((The fact that the construction of the key is a "JOKE" (made to break) is another issue. Lets just hope that the engineers doing car safety are a bit sharper than the doofus who designed this cluster f.... ) It might be possible to fix this in other ways, especially for other models of keys. But with the model of key that I have, You actually have to replace "everything" except the electronic FOB, which can be "moved over". I.e. both the ""cover"" and the blade has to be replaced simply because the blade is moulded into the cover. Just my 2 C's
Umm no... You need to break the PHYSICALLY MOLDED *metal key blade* out of the original plastic molding, then place the metal blade into the preformed slot on the replacement plastic shell. It takes about a minute, maybe less.
Its ridiculous that Lexus charges $50 to cut a key. Oh, but for $69 you can have a lifetime replacement. It's a faulty design, made probably on purpose to generate profit. The key on my 1960 Corvair is the original.
FYI for all the rude obnoxious people on earth. This is my dad. He doesn’t make these keys and he hasn’t worked at Lexus since 2013. There is no reason for anyone to bash him about the quality of these keys. He was just doing his job to provide for us. He has recently passed away and I have started watches this video over and over and over again just so I can hear his voice another time. And thank you for whoever said he had an eggplant head or whatever cause I look just like him and so I have one too lol
First of all I am sorry for your loss, it is nice that you have the video here, I have a similar video of a loved one that I watch for comfort at times. Anyway, back on point, your dad was simply providing a service, I'm not sure why people think the cost of aftermarket and often counterfeit parts on eBay should be the same cost of OEM parts from the manufacture through their dealers, but to me I was grateful for the information. Just remember Hailey that the loudest mouths are often the ones that are heard, but I promise you there are more kind and respectful people than there are jerks. I hope you continue to find peace with this video.
About $50 at the dealer is not bad. The OEM shell alone is about $35-40 and the rest to cut it/swap the electronics over. I would rather buy the OEM part made by Denso than some Chinese knockoff to save a few bucks. The keys are vey durable even with daily use. I got a new shell for my Lexus because I am just picky and did not like the scratches and imperfections in my old case after 18 years of use. My guess is people who break them have tons of keys/junk on their key fob and when it is the ignition there is a constant weight pulling the plastic part of the key from the metal part; then it just breaks one day.
don't waste your time go to Sears, it's $15 a key. I had this exact same key and I've had them done multiple times for less than $15 per key including the shell. Or you can waste your time going to your Lexus dealership where they charge you 5 times more than anything is worth. Your car is a Toyota don't let them love you! Especially an old Lexus like the first Generations. Hope this helps!
This video doesn't mention that when the key breaks, the metal part is really short and might be too hard to turn to start the car. If your Lexus has the tool kit in the back, just grab the pliers out of there and use them to turn the key. You also have to remember to hold the plastic part close to the ignition while turning, because the wireless immobilizer chip is in there.
"We can cut you a new key shell" lol. You guys cut the shells yourself by hand or something? Should be more like "We can sell you an overpriced tiny prone to cracking piece of plastic for $50"
Yeah, a new shell with blank metal key is $5 from eBay. But you would have to transfer the original key to the new casing, taking the blank out somehow. Overall, very bad design by Lexus, like other car manufacturers. They and the dealers want to suck the money out of your pockets.
I bought a key shell made by Staub. It's about $10 and much sturdier than a Lexus shell (it had the highest user ratings of any 3rd party made products). You install the old metal shaft and 3 button fob into the shell, so it's completely DIY with no need to have a new blank key cut and/or programmed. Shameful that Lexus makes such a poor quality key shell, charges so much for them, and doesn't stand behind them either.
My last car I had 2 new keys cut from the vin number for $20. This whole key thing is what I dislike most about my new lexus over my old saturn, well after my gas mileage
If you got the lexus key shell then I would suggest you to go Lexus showroom near you. They also charge around 20 dollars. Just take your car registration documents and vin number to them because they will ask those before cutting the key. I would not go to any other locksmith than lexus until as lexus would charge the same amount of money as compare to locksmith.
I charge 100.00 But you get a much more durable blade/shell, cut to code. New battery, and a strong recommendation to have me supply additional MASTER keys for these older cars, most especially. I have never seen people expectings stuff for free, like in the auto forums. I stopped answering tech questions, because those asking only want a free lunch.
Funny you should say that, b/c just a minute ago I called the parts dept. at our local Lexus dealership and got a quote of $25 for the job, so that's where I'm planning to go. Since I always go there for service, I'm guessing they won't need any special proof that I own the car....
Those one-button remotes can not be found anymore, and they ALL were sourced through one specific Toyota dealer in Texas. Any USA dealer had to go to them... off the market since about 2004
My key broke but I taped it up and I've been able to start my vehicle fine for the past year. Just recently it's no longer starting even with a jump. Could it be the key or am I in for dark times?
The huge price ranges you see quoted here show that some (I would guess few) Lexus dealers are relatively honest but the others are likely crooks. It's always best to have a local, high quality shop do your work or at least give a second opinion on repairs. My own experience with Lexus service has not been favorable. The technicians were fine but the management wasn't.
You can buy the casing that comes with the blank metal key on eBay for $5, shipping included. But this requires you to somehow to take the blank out. NOT good! Buy the STAUBER Best Lexus Key Shell Replacement for $9.98 free shipping on eBay, and you can simply transfer your original key to the casing.
Most dealers charge $350 for this. If you buy the 8.99 key on ebay, you have to have the key cut (as with any key, it comes with no "groves" for the tumblers, so you have to have a locksmith cut the new grooves to match your locks.). Only a few locksmiths do this (three in the Los Angeles Area, one each in Denver and Portland, OR). They all charge 30+ dollars for the service. Ebay will charge for shipping, about $10. So $49 from a dealer is a GREAT price.
this all works in the states, but canada. they told me that even if i get a blank key. the machine they use to cut chipped keys. will cost me 500$ to cut they wont use a blank key beacuse it could potentially damage the machine used to cut the key.
We appreciate your constructive comments. While I feel your description is offensive and extreme in nature, please let us know if we can be of assistance in the future. Stay classy, NOWonSPRINGER.
can we cut a key and use the same three button remote without it having to be reprogrammed? I assume the key is to turn the ignition and usde as a signal carrier?
These key shells should be replaced with carbon fiber shells free of charge. It's one thing to have to pay to have the key cut, but a rather sad case to have to purchase the shell. I've notified Lexus Corporate about this weak design and they essentially told me TS ...go buy another one. What a classy car manufacturer.
so you showed in the video how to do it. took you about 2 minutes to just put the key pad in the new one. and then you say for only 50$. anyone can change it over, and yes at one point in time it will break, because it only has one baby screw holding it. now if you made shells with more screws better plastic problem solved. but it should be a recall.. every 50$ I give you for a key, I could be maintaining my truck. Not fixing a problem that came with my purchase.
This is directed at the people who made the rude and stupid comments. It says much more about your character than anything else. Lexus keys must be laser cut and the FOB has to be programmed. Chris from Memphis was just trying to be helpful and save you money by using your already programmed FOB and then using their very expensive machine to cut the new key. So my message to you is go do some research before showing your ignorance. Thank you Chris for the information.
James, I didn't gather that at all from the video. He said, 'cut a new shell'... To some of us, it sounds like the plastic shell, but perhaps that is Lexus service/parts lingo for the shell AND metal part. (?) They need to understand we all don't know the special lingo they use. I am on here today because I'm looking for another option than a dealer in the DFW area that wants $72 to cut a NON-remote key. Had difficulty even discussing it over the phone as I couldn't believe it would be that much. He kept saying they would put the old remote in a new shell. I kept saying, all I want is a valet key. :-)
@@garyt4056 A valet key is a different thing, and on an old Toy or LEX, you ONLY want MASTER keys. The early denso system requires existing MASTER to add more keys. I reflash the computers, but that costs money. You hate to part with a dime, so I am helping anyone who has a working cranium by suggesting paying for some complete keys, as well as fixing the broken ones with D-Shel, or Durashelll blades. These are available through locksmith shops nationwide. I do no mailorder, so please.... I am not trying to drum up any more business. I just encountered thois old thread, and was saddened.... it reads like the Lexus forums.
I called the lexus place in Winston-Salem, NC they quoted me $75.00, yes a rip off, I had thought about calling this place just so my Girlfriend coudl have the one with the Lexus logo, yes they will have to ship it, but just out of principle, will pay the shipping.
Very Common. I BELIEVE this may have been made to break in order to preserve the internals of the ignition lock housing itself. When wheel is locked, twisting extra hard will break internals, costing about 1000.00. So having the key separate may have been intentional. They will NEVER say if this is true or not. But I have serviced broken lock bolt housings over the years.
Great video, but Lexus sure has resulted materials such as cheap keys, dashes, tailgate lock covers, radiator necks and so many more inferior parts! After 2 RX350s, NO MORE Lexus for us!
$49.00 is cheap. Locksmith charge me $140 that is insane...Ebay has an uncut Lexus key for around $60. you take the key to locksmith to have it cut cost $40 still insane. Lexus quote me $220 for my spare key and $280 with remote.
I just came to see what size battery this took without taking it apart . Amazon sells a aftermarket top plastic part that looks and fits these style keys for $7 i have one it looks just like oem and you dont have to go thru all the bs of reprogramming. I watched this with no sound as im in walmart trying to see which battery i need to steal . Jk buy
"Hello today I will be talking about how to get screwed by the service department at Lexus". ROFL! I swore off Lexus of Memphis when I took a 2000 es300 model in for service and was told by the service department they don't work on older cars because of the liability. Admittedly Lexus is a nice automobile but after the service department gave me the load of bullshit about the car being too old, I went and bought a much more reliable and better Infiniti. These guys have the absolute worst service department I have ever seen and I make sure to tell everyone I encounter that is car shopping or in need of service about my experience with these scheister's. Yes it may be more expensive to buy a key off eBay but at least I am spreading the money around and getting the satisfaction of denying these schmucks of my hard earned money. The key is a piss poor design as well as many other things on the car like the ECM, knock sensors, OCV's, Timing Belts, and Transmissions. I dare say GM can probably give Lexus a run for their money in quality control or even FIAT. Then again most people that can afford to drive a Lexus don't mind getting screwed in the arse because they are well off enough not to miss the paltry 49.00 dollars. I for one though am frugal and don't enjoy parting with one penny more than is absolutely necessary. My Infiniti push button ignition works flawlessly and the key fob is totally solid. Boo Lexus shame on you for taking advantage of people and not standing behind your products. Replace the key fob for free and apologize for the inconvenience. If anyone is interested I designed a replacement keyfob out of oak hardwood that looks like the original keyfob except its a lot prettier and better built. I was thinking of mass producing but didnt know if there was a market, after seeing this thread I guess there is.
haha my manufactured dec 95 lexus es300 does not require that..it broke on me eons ago and still starts up. like a mad man with ten pounds of red bull in his system.
You're not doing your research well. Look further, ASK for a better deal. Uncut keys are 10 bucks from ebay. Locksmith will do it for 25.00 when you find the right one. Best of Luck to you!
+gwynn808 Odd. Mine is 17 years old and still looks and functions fine but I would never trust our local Lexus dealer to replace them or to do anything else for that matter.
I thought Lexus was a quality dealer but I've had 2 of those shitty keys break and I'm appalled they'd charge you for their shitty craftsmanship... Don't even get me started on the paint they use that flakes off. Thumbs down
$49 for a design flaw? It should be done for free. The quality of Japanese products has been in decline. I will never ever buy a stupid toyota or lexus again.
