Are you having trouble programming your key fob for your 2000 Toyota 4Runner? It can be frustrating when your keyless entry system stops working. Luckily, programming your key fob yourself is often a straightforward process that can save you a trip to the dealership. This guide will walk you through the exact steps to program your 2000 4Runner key fob, and what to do if the programming isn’t working.
Step-by-Step Guide to 2000 4Runner Key Fob Programming
Follow these steps carefully to program your remote. It’s important to perform each step accurately and within the specified timeframes for successful programming.
Step 1: Vehicle Preparation
Begin by ensuring your 2000 4Runner is ready for programming.
- Key Out of Ignition: Make sure the key is completely removed from the ignition.
- Driver’s Door Open and Unlocked: Open the driver’s side door and ensure it remains unlocked throughout the process.
Step 2: Initiate Programming Mode – Part 1
This step starts the process of putting your 4Runner into programming mode.
- Insert and Remove Key: Insert your key into the ignition, but do not turn it. Immediately remove the key from the ignition after inserting it.
Step 3: Initiate Programming Mode – Part 2
This step continues the programming sequence using the power door lock switch.
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Lock/Unlock Cycle (5 Times): Within 40 seconds of step 2, use the power lock switch on the driver’s door to perform five lock/unlock cycles. Begin with the “lock” action. Maintain a consistent pace, aiming for approximately one cycle per second (one cycle equals one lock and one unlock).
Alt text: Close up of power door lock switch on a car door, illustrating the lock and unlock buttons.
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Close and Open Driver’s Door: Immediately after the lock/unlock cycles, close the driver’s door and then reopen it.
Step 4: Initiate Programming Mode – Part 3
This step finalizes the entry into programming mode and allows you to manage existing remotes.
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Lock/Unlock Cycle (5 Times Again): Within 40 seconds of step 3, repeat the power lock switch cycle. Perform five lock/unlock cycles, starting with “lock,” at a pace of about one cycle per second.
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Insert Key into Ignition: Insert the key back into the ignition.
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Turn Ignition ON and OFF (Specific Times for Actions): Turn the ignition to the “ON” position (do not start the engine) and then back to the “OFF” position. The number of times you perform this ON/OFF action determines the programming mode:
- Once: Retains currently programmed remotes and adds new ones.
- Twice: Erases all existing remotes and programs only the new remotes.
- Three Times: Checks how many remotes are currently programmed to the vehicle.
- Five Times: Erases all existing remotes.
- For most users simply adding a new remote, turning the ignition ON and OFF once is usually sufficient.
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Remove Key from Ignition: Take the key out of the ignition.
Step 5: Programming Mode Confirmation
Confirmation is crucial to ensure you’ve successfully entered programming mode.
- Automatic Door Lock Cycle: Within 3 seconds of removing the key in Step 4, the power door locks should automatically cycle lock and unlock. This indicates that your 2000 4Runner has successfully entered programming mode and is ready to learn the new key fob signal. If you do not see the door locks cycle, you may need to repeat steps 1-4 more carefully, paying close attention to timing.
Step 6: Program Your Remote
Now you can program your key fob.
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Press Lock and Unlock Simultaneously: Within 40 seconds of entering programming mode (Step 5), press and hold both the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on your remote simultaneously for 1 second.
Alt text: Image of a typical Toyota 4Runner key fob remote with lock and unlock buttons highlighted.
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Press and Hold Lock Button: After releasing both buttons, immediately press and hold only the LOCK button for 2 seconds.
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Confirmation Lock Cycle: The door locks will cycle LOCK and UNLOCK again to confirm that the remote has been successfully programmed.
Step 7: Program Additional Remotes (If Necessary)
If you have additional remotes to program, repeat step 6 for each remote. Ensure you do this within the 40-second programming window.
Step 8: Exit Programming Mode
To finalize the programming process and exit programming mode:
- Close Driver’s Door: Simply close the driver’s door. This action signals the system to exit programming mode.
Step 9: Test Your Remotes
The final and most important step is to test all programmed remotes to ensure they are working correctly.
- Test Lock and Unlock Functions: Press the lock and unlock buttons on each remote to verify they control the door locks as expected.
- Functionality Check: Also test any other buttons on your remote, such as panic or trunk release, if applicable to your model and remote type.
Troubleshooting: 2000 4Runner Key Fob Programming Not Working
If you followed all the steps and your 2000 4Runner key fob programming is still not working, here are a few common issues and troubleshooting tips:
- Timing is Critical: The programming sequence is time-sensitive. Ensure you are performing the lock/unlock cycles and key insertions within the specified 40-second windows. Use a stopwatch or timer to be precise.
- Door Lock Switch Issues: A faulty power door lock switch on the driver’s side can prevent programming. Test the switch to ensure it is functioning correctly.
- Key Fob Battery: A dead or weak battery in your key fob is a common culprit. Replace the battery with a new one and try the programming sequence again.
- Incorrect Key Fob: Ensure you are using a compatible key fob for your 2000 Toyota 4Runner. Check your owner’s manual for the correct type.
- Receiver Problems: In rare cases, there might be an issue with the vehicle’s receiver module that reads the key fob signal. This may require professional diagnosis.
- Programming Limit Reached: Some vehicles have a limit to the number of remotes that can be programmed. While less common, it’s a possibility if you have programmed many remotes in the past.
- Repeat the Process: Sometimes, the programming process might fail on the first attempt. Try repeating the entire sequence from Step 1 again, paying extra attention to each step.
If you have tried these troubleshooting steps and are still facing issues with your 2000 4Runner key fob programming, it may be time to consult a professional. A qualified automotive locksmith or your local Toyota dealership can diagnose the problem and provide further assistance.
By following these steps, you should be able to program your 2000 4Runner key fob successfully. Enjoy the convenience of keyless entry once again!
