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I'm a locksmith. Close but not exactly. You don't hold the new key in between the 2 already programmed keys. You turn (ON and then OFF) the first programmed key in the ignition and remove, insert the 2nd already programmed key in the ignition and turn ON and then OFF and remove. Insert the new key in the ignition and turn on. Wait for the security light to go off. Your new key is now programmed.
There are similar procedures for Chrysler if you have 2 already programmed keys. GM models you can program new keys yourself if you've either lost all of your keys or if you just want to add new keys.
Lexus and Toyota... certain years and models you can program new keys yourself if you have an existing master key.
Most everything else requires a diagnostic tool attached to your car to program in additional keys. A lot of locksmiths now have these tools so in most locations, you should never have to pay the dealer price on keys.
Imagine this... you buy an older model Lexus. Say 1998. It is almost a 10 year old car. The only key you get is the valet key. (doesn't work in the trunk and glove box) You need extra keys so you run over to the Lexus dealer to get an extra key made. You are pretty much in shock when they tell you that you have to replace the computer (ECM) because without the master key there is no way to program in additional keys. Total cost for this service: $1500.00-$3000.00. So, you think to yourself you can live with just one key. Then your toddler decides to throw your keys in the garbage and now you are STUCK with no keys. What do you do? If you listen to the dealer the only way to proceed is to have your car towed to them, wait a week for them to order the ECM and the keys and pay them thousands of dollars. NOT TRUE. I, along with many other locksmiths, have the capability to reset your computer, make you new master keys and have you back in your car in around 3 days time. (for mail order, locals can have same day service) And for how much? Around $250.00 to $500.00 depending on how many keys you want.
I pretty much only work on Toyota and Lexus these days. My phone rings all day long with confused, upset and frustrated Toyota and Lexus owners. I give them an alternative to the dealer prices and my information gives them options that the dealers don't give them or certainly don't tell them about.
So, always get a second opinion.
Take care,
Tami
I'm a locksmith. Close but not exactly. You don't hold the new key in between the 2 already programmed keys. You turn (ON and then OFF) the first programmed key in the ignition and remove, insert the 2nd already programmed key in the ignition and turn ON and then OFF and remove. Insert the new key in the ignition and turn on. Wait for the security light to go off. Your new key is now programmed.
There are similar procedures for Chrysler if you have 2 already programmed keys. GM models you can program new keys yourself if you've either lost all of your keys or if you just want to add new keys.
Lexus and Toyota... certain years and models you can program new keys yourself if you have an existing master key.
Most everything else requires a diagnostic tool attached to your car to program in additional keys. A lot of locksmiths now have these tools so in most locations, you should never have to pay the dealer price on keys.
Imagine this... you buy an older model Lexus. Say 1998. It is almost a 10 year old car. The only key you get is the valet key. (doesn't work in the trunk and glove box) You need extra keys so you run over to the Lexus dealer to get an extra key made. You are pretty much in shock when they tell you that you have to replace the computer (ECM) because without the master key there is no way to program in additional keys. Total cost for this service: $1500.00-$3000.00. So, you think to yourself you can live with just one key. Then your toddler decides to throw your keys in the garbage and now you are STUCK with no keys. What do you do? If you listen to the dealer the only way to proceed is to have your car towed to them, wait a week for them to order the ECM and the keys and pay them thousands of dollars. NOT TRUE. I, along with many other locksmiths, have the capability to reset your computer, make you new master keys and have you back in your car in around 3 days time. (for mail order, locals can have same day service) And for how much? Around $250.00 to $500.00 depending on how many keys you want.
I pretty much only work on Toyota and Lexus these days. My phone rings all day long with confused, upset and frustrated Toyota and Lexus owners. I give them an alternative to the dealer prices and my information gives them options that the dealers don't give them or certainly don't tell them about.
So, always get a second opinion.
Take care,
Tami
