Are you having trouble with your 2007 Toyota Yaris Key Fob? Perhaps you’ve purchased a new key and are struggling to program it, or maybe you’re just looking to understand the process better. You’re not alone. Many 2007 Toyota Yaris owners face similar challenges. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of 2007 Toyota Yaris key fob programming, aiming to clarify the process and offer solutions to common issues.
Understanding the different types of keys for your 2007 Toyota Yaris is crucial before attempting any programming. Toyota, like many manufacturers, uses different key types, each with its own programming requirements. It’s important to distinguish between them to ensure you’re using the correct procedure.
Generally, for a 2007 Toyota Yaris, you might encounter these key types:
- Master Key: This is typically the primary key that comes with the car. It can perform all functions, including starting the car, unlocking all doors, and programming new keys. Often, master keys are visually distinct, sometimes featuring a black plastic head.
- Valet Key: The valet key, if provided with your Yaris, is designed for parking attendants. It can start the engine and unlock the driver’s door but typically cannot open the glove compartment or trunk. Valet keys may have a gray plastic head.
- Standard Key/Transponder Key: This refers to a basic key that has a transponder chip embedded in it. This chip is essential for communicating with your car’s immobilizer system. Aftermarket keys or keys purchased online usually fall into this category.
When you’re looking to program a new 2007 Toyota Yaris key fob, you’ll likely be working with a transponder key. The process usually involves a specific sequence of actions performed inside your vehicle to enter programming mode.
The procedure mentioned in the original post, “EI-12 (engine immobilizer -12),” is a common type of onboard programming sequence for Toyota vehicles of that era. Let’s break down this procedure and clarify each step:
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“START -“: This is more of a heading than a step. It simply indicates the beginning of the programming procedure.
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“Insert a previously registered key into the ignition key cylinder. Remove and insert it again. Repeat this 4 times.”: This step is crucial for initiating the programming sequence. You need to use a working, already programmed key. The rapid insertion and removal cycles are signals to the car’s immobilizer system that you want to enter key programming mode. It’s important to perform these actions smoothly and within the specified timeframe, if there is one mentioned in more detailed guides.
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“Open and close the driver door 6 times.”: This is another step in the sequence to further confirm your intention to program a new key. Ensure you are fully opening and closing the driver’s door for each count.
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“Remove the key.”: After the door cycling, remove the currently inserted (working) key from the ignition.
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“Insert the master key to be registered into the ignition key cylinder.”: Now, insert the new key that you wish to program. In the original post, the user bought a key with part number 89785-60160, which they believed to be a master key. It’s essential to ensure the key you are trying to program is compatible with your vehicle’s immobilizer system.
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“After 60 seconds, the key is registered.”: This step indicates the waiting period. The car’s system is attempting to recognize and register the new key. It’s important to wait the full 60 seconds and not interrupt the process. Sometimes, the car might give a signal, like the security light turning off or a beep, to confirm successful registration.
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“Remove the key”: After the waiting period, remove the newly programmed key. It’s recommended to test the new key to ensure it starts the engine and operates the door locks correctly.
The manual’s suggestion that “the immobilizer ECU should not have any key codes in it” is potentially misleading or misinterpreted. In reality, the immobilizer ECU must have at least one registered key code to function initially. What it likely means is that for certain programming procedures, especially when starting from scratch or if all keys are lost, the ECU might need to be reset or initialized, effectively clearing existing key codes before new ones can be programmed. However, for adding an additional key when you already have a working key, this usually isn’t the case.
Troubleshooting and Common Issues
If you’ve followed the procedure and your 2007 Toyota Yaris key fob is still not programming, here are some common reasons and troubleshooting steps:
- Incorrect Key Type: Ensure the new key you purchased is indeed compatible with your 2007 Toyota Yaris. Keys bought online or from third-party sellers might not always be the correct type or have a compatible transponder chip. Verify the part number if possible, and ideally, purchase keys from reputable sources.
- Procedure Errors: Key programming sequences can be very timing-sensitive. Ensure you are performing each step exactly as described, with the correct number of repetitions and within any specified time limits. If you are unsure, re-read the instructions carefully and try again. Sometimes, slight variations in timing can prevent successful programming.
- Immobilizer System Issues: In rare cases, there might be an underlying issue with your car’s immobilizer system. If no keys can be programmed, even by a professional, there might be a problem with the immobilizer ECU itself, or related components.
- Pre-programmed Keys: Some aftermarket keys might need to be pre-programmed or “cloned” using specialized equipment before they can be programmed to your car using the onboard procedure. In this case, the eBay keys the user purchased might have needed this initial step. The locksmith’s action of moving the transponder chip from the original key into the eBay key essentially created a clone of the original key’s transponder data.
- “Master Key” Confusion: The term “master key” can be confusing. While the part number 89785-60160 is a valid Toyota part number associated with keys, simply buying a blank key with this part number doesn’t guarantee it will automatically program as a master key. It is still a blank transponder key that needs to be programmed to your specific vehicle.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried the programming procedure multiple times and are still unsuccessful, it might be time to seek professional help.
- Locksmiths: Automotive locksmiths often have specialized tools and diagnostic equipment to program car keys. They can also diagnose immobilizer system issues and may be able to program keys that you cannot program yourself using the onboard procedure.
- Toyota Dealership: Your local Toyota dealership is another option. They have factory diagnostic tools and trained technicians who can program keys and address any immobilizer system problems. Dealerships may be more expensive than locksmiths, but they offer the assurance of using genuine parts and factory-level expertise.
Conclusion
Programming a 2007 Toyota Yaris key fob can sometimes be a straightforward process using the onboard programming procedure. However, it’s crucial to use the correct type of key, follow the procedure accurately, and be aware of potential issues that can prevent successful programming. If you encounter difficulties, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from a qualified locksmith or your Toyota dealer. Having a properly functioning key fob is essential for the security and convenience of your vehicle.
