IS200 Key with remote and transponder

[BrianRA23]

When I got my I200 it only came with one key. I understand is the master key and not the valet version, but I am not sure if this was even an option.

I need to organise one or two more keys. Most likely one with a transponder and another for unlocking the car when the keys get locked inside. Cheap blanks can be purchased on eBay, without the transponder and need to be cut at a locksmith.

I called Lexus and they siad it would be between $500 and $700, but could give me a definite price if they had the VIN number. For the money, you get a key that will apparently work straight away, being cut and programmed from the factory information.

I stumbled across a guy on eBay Australia who could provide a key and place your ECU into learning mode for modern Toyotas, but when I asked if he could do the same for the IS200, he checked and said it was a Lexus OEM solution and he could not do it.

Reading various forums, I have found this information:
- some details say you need to have a master key to be able to program a replacement.
- a master key with electronics and programming instructions can be purchased from eBay US for just under US$100 plus shipping, but then needs to be cut.
- US and UK frequencies may be different (Australia unknown) so the .
- programming instructions require two procedures: one for the transponder and one for the door locking.
- Apparently there are companies in the UK who must have the factory information and can get the right thing if they are given the VIN number.

If anyone knows of a cheap way to source another key or if they can be reprogrammed into the IS200. I will be doing an engine conversion on this car later, so I would like to know if the standard key, immobiliser and door lock system remains operational when using both computers.

[cam_ra40]

I'm also quite interested and in the same boat. I have come across the instructions on programing extra keys but as you say, the UK keys are different frequencies and the US ones are quite possibly also different. I was quoted $550 from lexus to have 1 extra key including cutting and coding.

[BrianRA23]

I have also found the instructions on the UK Lexus site regarding the reprogramming of a new key for the IS200.

Since it is so important to not loose the Master key, can one of the cheaper UK or US keys be used as a backup master (or maybe get a friends key and have it programmed it as a master on two cars). I assume to be a master key it needs the ECU to recognise the key when inserted and to turn the immobiliser off. The frequency thing for different countries seems to only be an issue regarding the use of the remote door locking, and if so, then getting one of these FOBs is cheap protection against a lost fully functioning master key.

Anyhow I have just bought one of the UK keys so I will find out in a week or so.

[Yojimbo]

I can confirm that with engine conversion; in my car at least; all the factory security remains in place, and works.

I have Haltech e11v2 ecu and 2jz conversion. Facotry ecu's are still in place as well.

[BrianRA23]

The key from the UK arrived and it has been cut and following the programming instructions I have it so it will turn off the immobiliser, but not operate the door locks.

This is as expected and the car recognises it as a master. I do not need to be so worried about loosing the one original I have. If I do loose the original, I can use the UK one to program in a new Australian one with full door lock operation.

For those who missed the point earlier, if you loose your master keys, you will be required to buy a new ECU and master key to be able to get going again. That becomes a $3500 problem to solve. Using the UK key is effectively a $100 insurance plan.