What Experts Say You Should Know

Lexus Key Replacement - Replacing a Remote Or Fob
The battery inside your key fob is going to eventually run out, whether you have the standard Lexus Key that turns on the ignition on or an intelligent one for your vehicle, which starts by pressing the button. It's easy to replace it with a paperclip: Pop the old battery out and replace it with the new one (refer to your owner's manual to determine which battery you require) and then secure it back in the correct position.
Keys
Lexus keys are not easy to replace and require a professional locksmith to replace your car key to make a working spare. This is because every Lexus key is equipped with an electronic chip that needs to be programmed to work in conjunction with your vehicle's immobiliser - if not it will not be able to start.
It takes a lot time and specialized equipment to allow this process to be done correctly. Each model has its own programming procedure. Replacing a lost or damaged key or fob is a costly job and should be left to professionals unless you possess the proper tools and knowledge.
It doesn't matter if you have a standard key that turns in the ignition barrel, or a smart key that starts the car with the click of one button they will both eventually need their batteries replaced. You can save money by doing this yourself, but it requires the use of a small Phillips screwdriver and an old coin (a 20p piece works well) and a paperclip. There are two or three screws on the back of the fob that holds the key. Unscrew them, and store them securely (they are small and easy to lose). The fob can be removed to reveal an indentation of circular shape for the key made of metal. Take the battery out (using the paperclip) and replace it with the new battery, making sure it's the correct way up. Then, clip the outside of the key back to the fob.
Remotes
Lexus remotes and fobs aren't easy to replace and require locksmiths who are both well-versed and have the proper tools. Some models require that the transponder chip in the key be reprogrammed in order to work with the immobiliser system of the car. These chips are programmed using different methods depending on the model of Lexus. This is done using a specific device that transmits a code to the chip to unlock the doors or to start the engine.
Some Lexus cars are equipped with a single unit that consists of the key head as well as the remote, and these are much easier to replace because there is no separate chip. This kind of key is also less expensive.
All fobs eventually lose their battery power, regardless of the kind of key. This is a stressful situation, but it's possible to get your Lexus back on track with a little knowledge. Start by reading the owner's manual to determine what kind of battery you require and locate an alternative. Find a small opening on the inside of your fob. Insert an amount of money (20p is a good choice) into the hole and twist. There should be a flat area which you can easily remove using an ordinary paperclip.
Then, take the old battery away and then insert the new one. Make sure to insert the battery with the proper the polarity. Clip the inside of your fob to insert the key in the metal.
Transponder Chips
Transponder chips are present in the head of the key on almost all new cars manufactured since 1995. They are used to disable immobiliser systems. If you've got keys that has a chip inside it, the head has a plastic cover which can be pulled off to reveal an L-shaped metal key. A transponder-chip replacement key or fob is a multistage process. It involves cutting the keys accurately and programming the chip to make it sync with the vehicle immobiliser.
A transponder is a device with Non-Volatile Memory. It contains a set windings, which are very fine wires that are wrapped around a tube. They look like those in an electric motor. The windings create a coded signal that the car can read. If the code is correct the car will begin to move.
There are two kinds of transponder chips. The one is known as the 80-bit while the other is known as the circle + (General Motors). The first type is reusable, but it must be delocked using a specific machine in order to work on another compatible vehicle. The latter is more difficult as the old ones are often broken or drilled through, or discarded after key cases are replaced. However, they can be used with a key-service that doesn't require a battery.
Immobiliser Systems
An immobiliser is a digital security device that prevents thieves from starting your car. It operates by sending an electronic signal from your car to the key each time you try to start it. The chip inside your key responds by sending a unique code that must match the one in the vehicle in order to start. If the codes do not match, your engine will stop immediately to stop theft.
The Keylab and fobs are equipped with embedded transponder chips that stores security information in a format that can't be duplicated. When the fob or key is inserted into the ignition, they send this code to the ECU. The ECU is then able to compare it with the code in its memory. It then activates the fuel system and ignition circuit if they match. If the codes do not match, your engine won't be able to start - even if someone tries to short-circuit the ignition circuit.
Replacing a key or fob is a multi-stage procedure that involves accurate cutting of the new blade of the key and programming it to communicate with the immobiliser system of your vehicle. Each immobiliser system is unique and has its own programming procedure. We use Ross-Tech software to ensure that your replacement key is programmed correctly to ensure maximum performance and security.