scottbird

Hello, new here. Having a problem with an '04 4Runner. The original key starts the car without an issue, but both spare keys will crank but the engine won't turn over. I have searched and come up dry. Anyone know what is going on and how to resolve the issue?

ricky

There's a chip in the keys. They must be programmed to the cars for them to work to start the engine.

NH Mudder

Hey Scott, welcome to YotaTech! Ricky is right, there is a chip in some keys that will only allow you to open up your doors and such, in case you have ever locked your real keys in, but not to start it. Now to add onto this, if you want to get a key made with a chip, it is possible, I know that the home depot closest to me they do it, but they are not cheap, some are 150$ I believe with the chips, but I think it is either hit or miss, some aren't that expensive. Anyways, I hope this answers your question, best of luck!

sixstringslut

Hold your chip key close to ignition then try to start with non-running key. Some will tape chip key under dash and use non-chip keys ($2 each@Ace Hardware) and have several spares.

scottbird

Thanks for all the quick replies! Mr. Slut said that you can "tape chip key under dash". Where do you attain said chip key? Do you take apart the original key with the chip in it or do you have to go to a Toyota stealership and pay out the ass for it? It's really surprising to me that the keys have chips in them. They don't seem big enough. Thanks again!

takeitoutgetitdirty

Most of the chips I've seen are about the size of a pill.

To get the key made @ the dealership it cost $50 for the key and $60 to program it. Atleast that is how much it cost for my 03 4runner.

scottbird

So I held the original key to the ignition cylinder while trying to crank the car and it still wouldn't turn over. Can I really tape a chip to my dash and make it work with the spares?