Dealing with car key fobs can be a surprisingly expensive hassle, especially when you’re told by dealerships that your only option is a brand-new, costly replacement. For owners of a 2008 Toyota Prius, the frustration is no different. Many find themselves needing an extra key fob or a replacement and are immediately hit with quotes from Toyota dealerships ranging from $230 to $290 for a new OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) fob and programming. But what if there’s a more budget-friendly way, particularly if you’ve considered purchasing a used key fob online?
You might have heard conflicting information about whether a used key fob can be programmed to work with your Prius. While it’s true that simply programming the remote start function might work on both new and used fobs through the standard “door dance” method, getting the Smart Key System (SKS) functions to work on a used fob is where many hit a wall. Dealerships often claim it’s impossible, steering you towards their expensive new options.
However, don’t lose hope just yet. There’s a solution that many Toyota Prius owners, particularly those with a 2008 model, have successfully utilized: a skilled locksmith. The key to this workaround lies in a specialized tool called a T-Code Pro. This device, when connected to your Prius’s OBDII port, can reset the car’s immobilizer system. This reset process, which takes around 16 minutes, clears the system and allows for the programming of all key fobs, including previously used ones. Crucially, even your existing, working key fobs will need to be reprogrammed after the immobilizer reset.
The programming itself after the reset is straightforward. It typically involves a simple procedure, often just holding down the lock and unlock buttons simultaneously on the key fob for a few seconds. Your Prius will usually respond with a beep to confirm successful programming. And just like that, a used key fob, potentially purchased for as little as $60 online, can be fully functional, controlling both the ignition and the Smart Key System features of your 2008 Toyota Prius.
The cost savings can be significant. While locksmith prices will vary by location and service, many charge a reasonable fee for this programming service. In one instance, a Prius owner found a locksmith who charged only $50 for the service, bringing their total cost for a fully functional second key fob to just around $110 (including the used fob purchased online). This represents a substantial saving compared to dealership prices.
If you’re looking to save money and equip your 2008 Toyota Prius with a working key fob without breaking the bank, exploring the locksmith option with T-Code Pro capability is definitely worth considering. It’s a smart way to get full functionality from a used key fob and avoid the high costs associated with dealership-only solutions.
