Programming a new key fob for your 2003 Lexus RX300 can seem daunting, but this guide simplifies the process. Whether you’re adding a spare or replacing a lost key, follow these straightforward steps to program your 2003 Lexus Rx300 Key Fob and immobilizer yourself. This method is designed to be user-friendly and save you a trip to the dealership.
Programming Your 2003 Lexus RX300 Key Immobilizer
Before you can use the remote functions, you need to program the key to start your Lexus RX300. This involves programming the immobilizer system to recognize your new key.
- Initiate Programming Sequence: Begin by inserting your original master key into the ignition.
- Pedal Inputs: Firmly press the gas pedal five times, followed immediately by pressing the brake pedal six times.
- Remove Master Key: Take out the original master key from the ignition.
- Insert New Key: Quickly insert the new, unprogrammed key into the ignition. Notice that the security light on your dashboard will still be blinking, indicating the key is not yet recognized.
- Gas Pedal Input for New Key: Press the gas pedal just once. The security light will now blink for approximately 60 seconds. During this time, the system is learning the new key code.
Alt text: Close-up of a 2003 Lexus RX300 key fob next to the car’s ignition, illustrating the key programming process.
Wait for Security Light: It’s crucial to wait until the security light stops blinking. This indicates that the immobilizer programming is complete. Once the blinking ceases, your new key is programmed to start your 2003 Lexus RX300.
- Verify Key Programming: Insert the newly programmed key into the ignition and start your Lexus RX300 to confirm successful immobilizer programming. Remove the key from the ignition once you’ve verified the car starts.
Programming the Remote Function of Your 2003 Lexus RX300 Key Fob
Now that the key starts your car, you need to program the remote functions (lock/unlock) of your 2003 Lexus RX300 key fob.
- Open Driver’s Door: Ensure the driver’s side door is open throughout the following steps of the remote programming process.
- Lock/Unlock Cycle (First Set): Press the lock button on the driver’s side door panel. Then, using the power lock/unlock switch on the door panel, cycle the lock and unlock buttons five times.
- Lock/Unlock Cycle (Second Set): Repeat the cycle from step 8. Press the lock button again on the door panel, and cycle the power lock/unlock switch five more times.
- Ignition Cycle: Insert the new key into the ignition and turn it to the “ON” position, then immediately turn it back to the “OFF” position and remove the key. Upon removing the key, you should observe the car’s door locks automatically cycling lock and unlock. This indicates that the system has entered remote programming mode.
- Remote Button Activation: Take your new remote key fob and simultaneously press and hold both the lock and unlock buttons for one second. Release them. Then, immediately press the lock button by itself and release it. You should see the car doors lock, confirming the lock command was accepted. To verify the unlock function, press the unlock button; the driver’s door should unlock, signaling successful remote programming.
Alt text: Image highlighting the location of the door lock and unlock buttons on a Lexus RX300 driver’s side door panel, used during the key fob programming procedure.
Exiting Programming Mode: To finalize and exit the programming mode, simply close the driver’s door.
Final Verification: Test both the original master key and the newly programmed key fob to ensure all functions – starting the car and remote lock/unlock – are working correctly. For an additional check, try using both keys in proximity to each other to rule out any interference during programming.
By following these steps, you should have successfully programmed your 2003 Lexus RX300 key fob. This DIY approach can save you time and money, getting you back on the road quickly.
