Toyota Keys Replacement If you're a dealer customer or you choose a locksmith from a third party, ensure that they're reputable. This will ensure that the key you purchase is genuine and will be able to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle. Lost car keys are always panic-inducing. Toyota drivers now have a new service available that will replace keys that have been damaged or stolen. Finding a New Key If you're in a position to unlock your car by turning on the ignition and drive away, but are having trouble with the fob that you use to unlock your car is the case, then you'll probably have to replace the battery. These little gadgets get plenty of wear and tear because they are tossed around in our bags, purses and pockets eventually, they'll become worn out or cease to function altogether. It's better to use OEM key fobs rather than aftermarket replacements. They're made specifically for Toyotas, and are of the highest quality. It's easy to change the battery in your Toyota key fob. First, you'll have to open the case. You can use the hidden metal key or a screwdriver that is thin to make a notch in the case and then pop it out. Once the case is open, gently lift the circuit board to change the battery. You'll typically locate the kind of battery you need on the old battery or in the owner's guide. Then, select the right battery that is the correct size and is compatible with your key fob. After you have purchased your new battery, place it into the key fob. Close the case. You'll need to test the fob to ensure it is now functioning as intended as you drive around the La Jolla area. Toyota keys aren't only for opening doors or to start the engine. They also contain transponder chips that lets your car know that it is authorized to use the key. The transponder chip inside the key fob is programmed to correspond with the car. This lets you unlock the vehicle and operate it without needing to insert an actual key. If the key fob gets damaged or worn, it's important to contact your local Toyota dealership as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the damage to the key fob it might be possible to purchase a new key case that houses the internal electronics without having to get a complete replacement for the key fob. You may also try a free application like the Toyota Key Finder in order to locate your keys. Transponder Chip Issues Contrary to the past days of grand theft auto where hotwiring could earn you an automobile, modern vehicles feature keys that have transponder chips integrated into them that make it virtually impossible to duplicate or steal. The chips are programmed for specific models of cars and have specific codes that prevent them from working on other vehicles. These chips have been proven to be effective in preventing car thefts however, they may malfunction at times. It is common for a key to turn on the engine or to lock the car, but not turn on the ignition. This is an obvious sign that something is wrong and you'll want to get it checked out right away. This problem can be caused by a number of different causes. It can be as simple as a dead battery inside the key, but it can be a much more serious issue with the chip or the immobilizer in your vehicle. If you're not sure of the issue, you can take your Toyota vehicle to a dealer or locksmith for an examination to determine the cause. If your key fob is severely damaged due to physical or water damage, it could be required to replace it. This is a costlier option, but sometimes necessary. A professional locksmith or dealer can assist you with this, but it will require a great deal of information about your Toyota. You will need to give them the model, make and year of your Toyota, along with its VIN. They'll also require where your car is and if it has been rekeyed before. Once they have all the data they require, they'll be able to cut you a brand-new key. Then, they'll need to program the chip and test it to make sure that it's able to unlock and start your car. They'll also need to make sure that the key isn't damaged by physical damage or a dead battery. Lastly, they'll have to ensure that the key is a genuine Toyota part. This is essential because they're designed to fit your vehicle and meet the safety standards. Key Fob Issues Having key fob issues can be a hassle during your Chula Vista commute or when you're out running errands in San Diego. It's good to know that they're frequent and usually boil down to a straightforward issue of replacing the battery. If your key fob is equipped with a dead battery You can search the internet for "Replacing Toyota Key Fob Battery" or refer to the instructions included with your vehicle. https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/toyota-car-key-replacements-near-me/ will help you to open the case of your Toyota key fob. It will have the notch or slot that is easily accessed with fingers, a screwdriver or a similar thin and strong object. After the case has been opened and lifted, gently lift the circuit board and reveal the battery. Take note of the kind of battery you've seen or take an image with your smartphone, then carefully remove it from the case. Once you have a replacement battery, insert it into your key fob and close it by snapping it shut. Once you have it reassembled and tested, you can test your key fob to ensure that it is working properly before you take off for your next Chula Vista drive. If it doesn't work then you'll need to reprogram the Toyota key fob. This is done by any Toyota dealership that stocks parts for your model. If you're having issues with your Toyota key fob, our experts at Mossy Toyota can help you figure out if it's worth trying to repair or replace it. Contact us to learn more about our auto parts and services in La Jolla, or schedule an appointment with one of our service technicians. We're looking forward to keeping your Toyota vehicle in good condition while you travel through the San Fernando Valley. Key Finder App If you are constantly misplacing your keys, it could be time to look into a Toyota key finder accessory. These Bluetooth devices attach to your keys, and can be tracked by a mobile app, and emit an audible sound when they are activated. These devices are perfect for families that are always moving around and rushing between football practice, dance class and school. Some models can be placed up to 60 feet away and have different ringer settings. The key finder applications that can be downloaded on your phone or tablet function just like any other Bluetooth application. You will have to download the appropriate app and follow the instructions. When you're done, your keys can be tagged with a name and can then be found similarly to how you would your phone or music player. Some models are waterproof and may be placed in a pool or lake which is great for those who spend much time in water. Another advantage of the Toyota key finder is that it can be used with smart home devices like Amazon Echo or Google Home that will help you locate your keys from a different area. They can also be linked with other devices like smartwatches, which are great for people who are always on the go and don't have the time to search for their keys. If you are in search of a Toyota key fob, you can buy one from Don Jacobs Toyota after you have presented your photo ID and proof of ownership of your vehicle. We will then be able to program the new fob and then insert the key into your vehicle to ensure it works properly. We can even program the fob to remote starter, which allows you to start your car from any location using a smartphone app or smart speaker. Contact Don Jacobs Toyota for more information on key fobs or to make an appointment.