29th Mar 2006, 10:17

You are not alone with the broken key fob problem, but there is a solution.

Go on EBAY. Search for lexus key fobs and you will find many aftermarket sellers who can cut you a new key with a heavier-duty shell for the fob portion, or purchase just the fob portion itself. I replaced mine with an aftermarket unit and have not had any issues at all since. Some sellers will provide instructions on how to reprogram the transponder to match your RX immobilizer, if you go with the complete new key route, or do a search online. I say this because my dealer wanted several hundred dollars to reprogram through them.

Good luck!

3rd Apr 2006, 22:50

There's a series on this issue at http://us.lexusownersclub.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=21084&hl=key. I got an aftermarket key from a Lexus dealer for around $65, and they cut the key for free. Then just insert the "brains" from the old key and you're set.

18th May 2006, 00:00

I am searching for a new Lexus shell for my key. It is very frustrating to have a key break in the ignition. I only have one Master key at this time which is taped with black tape. At times the key will not work and that is when it becomes very frustrating. I was hoping that by wrapping the key with the black tape I could baby the key and make it last, but I need to go on and spend the bucks to get a reliable key before I get stranded. A luxury car should not have keys that break!

6th Jun 2006, 09:55

If you have only broken the casing and the metal key part is still good, you can order another casing from the lexus dealer for around $70.00. I am fixing to go pick mine up now. if I have any problems with it I will comment again.

8th Jul 2006, 12:28

Hi, we replace broken remote shells for Lexus and Toyota vehicles. We sell new after-market shells that come with a LIFETIME Warranty against breakage, the cost is about $75.00 for the repair and key cutting. Feel free to browse our website at www.a-1mobilelockandkey.com or email us with any questions at Bob@a-1mobilelockandkey.com.

Thanks Rob.

14th Aug 2006, 12:13

Why is it that your cost is the same as that of Lexus? After all the aftermarket products are supposed to be cheaper...

6th Feb 2007, 13:11

The reason our after market keys are built a lot better than the original Lexus keys or even the China made keys. $80.00 includes the remote shell, cutting of the key and shipping. Beware of the keys on Ebay, they are cheap, but what do you get for a cheap price... Think about it. Rob 573-395-4001.

13th Feb 2007, 14:35

If you are looking for good quality replacement keys, shells or remotes for your Lexus, try at very reasonable prices http://www.sparecarkeys.com 1-866-350-4199.

13th Feb 2007, 17:51

Wow, My key cost's only $.97 and is just a plain metal key with no rubber much less a transponder.

18th Feb 2007, 12:29

I love my 2001 ES 300 and have had no Key problems... but I have had the same problems as noted above with my 2004 IS 300 keys. Both have broken. Clearly this is a design problem that should be corrected by the dealer/Lexus.

31st May 2007, 11:10

Hi, we fix broken remote shells for Lexus vehicles. Don't throw away your old cracked remote key; we can fix it 99% of the time. You will never have your keys fall apart in your hands again. We use a technique that reinforces the original locking screw, without the use of glue or an external shell clamp. The minor modification is barely noticeable. Replacing your remote battery will be the same as the past! We also reinforce new & replacement keys, because they will all crack due to the design flaw.

We will warranty against normal breakage, the cost is about $25.00 for the repair. All you have to do is remove the electronic transponder and ship me the case with the attached key. Feel free to email us with any questions at LexusKeyRepair@yahoo.com.

Thanks Felix.

24th Sep 2007, 07:52

Hi;

I have a 200 RX300 and have faced the similar problem with the key fob. Over time, and with cranking the ignition, the screws would break the plastic housing and they both fell apart.

Thanks to the help in this forum, I found a local locksmith who stocked the replacement shells. He only charged $50 for the new shell and to cut the key. He then just took the existing electronics and placed it into the new housing.

This was really inexpensive as compared to the $350 that the local Lexus dealer quoted to replace the entire fob. They did not even mention that you could just buy the housing. Works like a charm. This is the way to go.

13th Dec 2007, 06:42

The Lexus RX 300 keys are terrible and the lack of quality is certainly a reason not to buy the car. Our local Lexus dealer acknowledged the problem, noting that the keys break because the ignition is located right behind the wheel and perpendicular to the wheel. This creates an unnatural twisting motion when you start the vehicle. While the dealer said it was a design flaw, it's certainly not something they will fix because the repairs provide good revenue. As a long time lexus owner, I can tell you the quality has diminished. However, as the leading car maker in the US, they really don't care at this point. Don't even bother calling the national Lexus help desk. They used to care about your satisfaction of the car, but that's not the case anymore.

17th Feb 2008, 06:19

Hi. I recently purchased a beautiful 2002 Lexus RX 300. The vehicle is fantastic, but it came with only the valet key. Lexus tells me that in order to get new master keys made I need to change the whole computer plus order two master keys. This is at a big cost, over $2,000.00. Does anyone know a way around that. Lexus has a program where they change the computer for free if one agrees to buy two masterkeys at full cost. I would be willing to do that, but Lexus no longer responds to my emails on this subject. Problem is, I am Canadian and purchased the vehicle in Florida. Lexus Canada refuses to deal with me unless I cover all costs, over $3,500.00 for keys and computer. Lexus USA does not answer my questions about the Lexus program to replace computer for free for those who have lost all their master keys. My vehicle only came with the valet key! Anyway, I look forward to a educated response. thanks. R. May renoir911@yahoo.ca.

28th Aug 2008, 14:52

My 2001 ES has had very few problems yet this key thing is a design flaw and they should offer new cases to all owners. It's a piece of plastic for gosh sake. The case shouldn't cost more than a dollar. My second key case just exploded.

1st Sep 2008, 07:05

I feel all your pain when it comes to the key situation. I have to replace two sets and it will not get better. I feel that Lexus has cut us short and did not follow through with their commitment to quality and excellence. Sorry Lexus you have now lost a customer.