Ok, I just bought a used Prius 08 and am a complete newbie. I've spent alot looking through the site as it only came with one key. In everyones experience, what is the best way to get a new key? I've seen the used ones on ebay, but have read it may not work as a smart key and can't be programmed to the vehicle. If I buy used, can I program it myself to unlock/lock doors and start the vehicle using the buttons and the slot? If I want full smart key function, would it be better just to go to the dealer and buy keys from them (yet costly) TIA now back to reading this great site
If your car has the SKS system, the best thing for you to do is purchase the fob(s) from the dealer and have them program the car to accept the new fob(s). If you have a non-SKS car, you can get a (black) fob from eBay and do the programmimg yourself. The instructions are here on Prius Chat.
Sorry to bring this thread back, but another question. I called 4 dealers in a 60 mile radius and each one wanted $200-$300 for a single key and replacement. My question is, can I order a used silver fob on ebay and program it myself to unlock/lock and start the car with just the buttons and sliding it in the slot and not worry about the smart key feature. The feature is nice, but not necessary if I can save $250 per key
The only thing you can program yourself is the ability to put the replacement key fob(used or new) in the slot and start the car. You cannot program any other features. I would buy a new key from someplace like parts.com (they are around $135) and continue to call around until you find someplace that is closer to the $50 or so that I have had quoted from several of my local Toyota dealers.
