Lexus credit card key - SUCCESS

I hope everyone is having a great week so far.

I've always been intrigued by the Lexus credit card key and the success stories around them with Tacomas, Highlanders, etc. Unfortunately since the smart key was only available with the Limited models until recently, there weren't any good threads with the 4Runner.

I'm happy to report that the Lexus credit card worked with my 2020 TRDP. The directions are more or less the same as the Tacoma thread below. The time consuming part was confirming compatibility.
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/...tacoma.445979/

Based off of my research, there is a good chance that it would work with the 2021 as the smart key ECU has the same TMLF12-1 model number. I have not looked into any of the other years where it was only offered on the Limited.

Please do your own research based off of the information above - I am not responsible if it doesn't work for your vehicle.

Parts:
Card key part number: 89904-53512 or 89904-53511 (old part #)
Emergency key part number: 69515-30350

Three options to program and cut the key
1. (Programming only) DIY - Techstream - Buy a Mini VCI J2534 cable and install Techstream on a computer. This is the cheapest option but note the process can be difficult.
2. Dealer - Most people on TacomaWorld reported success, but it would probably be worth calling. Some dealers required that the key be purchased at that location and/or refused to try.
3. Locksmith - Call first, some locksmiths cannot program/cut automotive keys.

I dusted off an old laptop to install Techstream and was successful. Emergency key blank is in transit and I've found a local locksmith that can cut the key.

It was a bit pricey but I'm glad that I only have to carry around my wallet now - totally worth it IMO.

 

Does it work well with the CC key in your wallet/back pocket ?

 

That's actually what I was worried about too. It works well with both of the wallets I have in either my front or back pocket. Basically the card key can't be in an RFID protected wallet/slot or be directly against metal which seemed to be a common issue.

My current wallet is a Dango D03 which is made of textile and aluminum. I have the key in one of the outside slots and it works fine anywhere I'm carrying it (front/back pocket).

 

I really like this CC option. It’s thin and has a physical key.

unfortunately I’m using a rfid tumi wallet. my wallet would probably block all signals.

 

Wow! This is fantastic. Thanks for posting this. Now time to google and check your link to see if this is in my Can Do wheelhouse. Thanks, OP.

 

What about locking the vehicle after you get out?

 

You can lock the door the same way as the normal smart key fob - by touching the lock sensor on the door handle.

 

What about locking and unlocking at a distance? Or the fob actuated remote start?

 

Locking/unlocking at a distance is not possible with the fob as it doesn’t have any buttons, same with the remote start.

I personally never used those functions so it didn’t make a difference for me, but something to keep in mind for those looking at this option. I didn’t renew my connected services trial, but that’s also another option to be able to keep lock/unlock at a distance and remote start while carrying the Lexus key fob.

 

I am such an idiot. I knew that you could UNLOCK the doors by touching the handle. I did not realize until reading your post that I could LOCK the doors the same way.

 

Looks like it's about $250 for the cc fob, $50 for the blank key, and $45 for the cable. The key has to be i) programmed and ii) physically cut, correct? Or I guess if you don't get the blank key, you just have to program the cc fob. Is that right?

 

Yeah that’s spot on - I paid $100 for a used like new key fob on eBay, $45 for the blank, $35 for the cable (Amazon Warehouse - used like new), and $35 to get the emergency key cut at a local locksmith.

If you are okay with having no emergency key, you can also save a bit on cost.

 

How difficult is it to program using the cable? Are there instructions or do you just have to figure it out?

 

Once you get to the part with programming the remote - that’s the easiest bit, approx 5 mins.

The difficult part is getting Techstream up and running. If you Google “how to Techstream” that’ll take you through the steps. The main challenge is that the mini VCI cable drivers are native x86, so if you have an old x86 laptop it would mostly be smooth sailing. There are ways to make the drivers working on x64 but it’s hit/miss.

 

Thinking about giving this a whirl on my 21 ORP... I work in tech so the programming doesn't scare me. I'm more lazy to read all the pages on that TacomaWorld link.

Has anyone else tried this yet? Specifically a 2021?

 

Whats your 2020 TRD Pro ECU #?