Experiencing issues programming a key fob for your 2011 Lexus IS250 can be frustrating. Many Lexus owners find themselves in a situation where they need a new or additional key fob, often turning to more affordable aftermarket options or used key fobs to save money. However, programming these fobs can sometimes present unexpected challenges, as one Lexus IS250 owner recently discovered.
After purchasing a 2009 Lexus IS250 with only one key fob, the owner decided to acquire two new remotes – one smart card type from Sewell Parts and another standard key fob from eBay, both advertised as new. Upon receiving the remotes, the eBay fob appeared to be used, raising initial concerns about its programmability.
Hoping to resolve the key situation, the Lexus owner visited a Lexus dealership in Toronto to program both new fobs and to erase any lost keys from the vehicle’s system. Despite spending a considerable amount of time at the dealership, the attempt to program the keys was unsuccessful. The dealership informed the owner that both fobs were likely used and, contrary to some online information suggesting used fobs could be reprogrammed, stated that these remotes are typically programmable to only one vehicle. Interestingly, the dealership did erase the lost fobs from the ECU and, in a surprising turn of events, did not charge for their services, a gesture appreciated by the owner, especially compared to experiences with other luxury car dealerships.
Following the unsuccessful dealership visit and facing locksmiths who also claimed inability to program used Lexus keys, the 2011 Lexus IS250 owner is now seeking advice and solutions within the Toronto area. The core question remains: is it possible to program used key fobs for a 2011 Lexus IS250, and if so, are there specialized locksmiths or alternative methods outside of the dealership that can successfully complete this task? This situation highlights the complexities and potential pitfalls when attempting to program aftermarket or used key fobs for Lexus vehicles, particularly the 2011 IS250 model.
