I just bought a used 2005 TL and got only 1 key. The out-of-town dealer said, "My service dept is closed right now but don't worry. You can get a key made locally for $5". Well, when I called the local dealer it was more like $120. Well, let's see if you guys can help.

Obviously, I need more than 1 key. How do I get more? What is the cheapest route? What skills/knowledge do I need?

Thanks in advance,
Ata

 

Well, the 2005 TL comes with a standard immobilizer. For the key to actually start the engine, it needs to be "programmed" with codes so that the car will recognize the key as authorized (its like pairing your cellphone with a bluetooth headset, only at a much deeper level). Each vehicle comes with it's own predefined code combination (this code can be found on a small card which comes with the car in the instruction manual pouch).

Sure you can get the keys cut traditionally for 5 dollars, but I would imagine that it dosen't come with the keyless fob, nor will it be properly programmed to work with your new TL.

Hope this helps

 

You will need 2 parts:
1. The KEY
2. The REMOTE

1. You can buy a key from the dealer, or buy the appropriate key from a locksmith who does car keys.
2. The remote is a bit more tricky. On the back of the one you have, where the keychain hooks into it, there should be MEM 1 or MEM 2 written there. If you have mem 2, you will need the mem 1 key, and vice versa. You can buy the remote off of ebay.

AFTER getting the parts, you will need to:

1. Have the key cut - a locksmith or dealer can do this for you. I highly suggest that if you get it cut at the dealer that they trace the key you have, and not cut it by the VIN (automatic machine)

2. Have the immoblizer programed, a local locksmith (who works with car keys) or the dealer can program it. Be advised that you will need ALL the keys to the car since they will all be erased and reprogramed to the car.

3. The remote will need to be programmed. This is fairly simple, the instructions are posted here in the 3G garage.