So here's the story.

About 4 years ago, my key cylinder on my '99 4Runner Ltd wore out so I had to buy a new one, and get the key reprogrammed for the security. I now walked around with a key for the doors and a key for the ignition, along with the keyless fob. No big deal. Over time, I somehow managed to lose both keys with the fobs. I get the 4Runner to the Toyota dealer, they cut a new key for the doors, but then they say I need a new computer along with a new cylinder (which comes with the keys). I tell them that I shouldn't need a new computer because 4 years ago, they just reprogrammed the key. They say because I no longer have the original master key, they cannot get into the computer to program the new keys, that they can only do this with a new ($1500) computer.

Are they yanking my chain or is this the truth?

Thanks for the help.

 

I would call around to lock smiths and to other toyota dealers.

 

Yup, call a locksmith who specializes in auto keys. I had a used ECM reprogrammed to accept my original key. Wait - are you totally unable to start the truck now? Sounds like you have lost ALL of your keys, right? In that case, the dealer may be right. Or, if you can find a donor ECM, immobilizer unit, ignition, and key set, you should be able to get that running.

 

Unfortunately this was true for a few years. 99 being one of them. Do call a good locksmith or another dealer first to be sure. I thought Toyota released info on how to do it without a new computer but its been a while and I could be wrong.

 

I was looking at a 4Runner (99) that a guy was selling cheap for this very reason. They also quoted $1500 to replace the computer and new master key. After asking around, found out there was a small "recall" for certain years. Because the computer can't be reprogrammed, Toyota offered free replacement computers, you just had to pay for labor. Call TOYOTA USA and ask them about this, you will have to give them your VIN to make sure this hasn't been done yet.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-ge...aster-key.html

 

pay for the 10 minutes to swap ecu? I wonder if they'd let you do it yourself.

 

yes it is true i work at a dealership and i bought my 4runner with only one key and they had to do the same thing. but some may not know but toyota will replace the computer for free one time but you have to buy two master keys and pay the dealership to install the computer and program the keys. you will have to get your service advisor to call toyota since they will only send the new computer to the dealership. at least this is how it went for me. this isnt common knowledge, i think, so you may have some push back from the advisor since most think they know everything!! haha

 

I called Toyota Canada and it apparently isn't available here. Too bad, the 4runner served me well, but it was time to get rid of her. I rode her hard and she wasn't much to look at anymore. I just upgrade to an 07 Tacoma. Thanks for all the advice.