Losing a car key or simply needing a spare for your Scion FR-S can quickly become a headache. The thought of dealership programming fees for a new key fob is often daunting. Fortunately, for Scion FR-S owners, there are more budget-friendly Do-It-Yourself (DIY) methods, especially for basic transponder keys. Let’s explore how you can program a Scion FR-S transponder key yourself and understand the various key fob options available for your vehicle.
DIY Programming a Scion FR-S Transponder Key
For a basic transponder key, similar to those without remote buttons, you might be able to program it yourself at home, potentially saving a significant amount compared to dealership costs. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on a procedure reported by Scion FR-S owners:
- Get Inside and Close Up: Enter your Scion FR-S and ensure all doors are completely closed.
- Master Key Insertion Sequence: Take your existing, working master key. Insert it into the ignition slot five times in quick succession, but do not turn the ignition on at any point during these insertions.
- Leave Key In and Door Cycling: On the fifth insertion, leave the master key in the ignition. Now, open and close the driver’s side door six times. Make sure to complete full open and close cycles.
- Observe Immobilizer Light: After the door cycling, the immobilizer security light on your dashboard should illuminate and remain on steadily. This indicates the system has entered programming mode.
- Insert New Transponder Key: Remove the master key from the ignition. Immediately insert your new, unprogrammed transponder key into the ignition. The immobilizer light should now start blinking.
- Programming Wait Time: Wait patiently for the immobilizer light to stop blinking. This process can take anywhere from about a minute to a minute and a half. Do not remove the key or interrupt the process while the light is blinking.
- Final Steps and Test: Once the immobilizer light stops blinking, remove the new key. Insert your master key back into the ignition and start your Scion FR-S engine. Turn the engine off. Finally, insert your newly programmed key and start the engine again. If successful, your new transponder key will now start your Scion FR-S.
Scion FR-S Key Fob Options: From Basic to Remote
When it comes to keys for your Scion FR-S, you have several options to consider, balancing functionality and cost:
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Basic Transponder Key: This type of key, demonstrated in the DIY programming method, is a fundamental option. It allows you to manually unlock your car doors and, once programmed, start the engine thanks to the embedded transponder chip. These are generally the most affordable replacement keys.
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Remote Key Fob: For added convenience, remote key fobs offer remote locking and unlocking, and sometimes panic button features. These keys include both the transponder chip for starting the car and remote functionality. Programming the transponder part might still be DIY programmable as described above, but the remote functions often require professional programming tools.
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Aftermarket Key Fobs: Beyond OEM keys, the aftermarket offers various Scion FR-S compatible key fobs, sometimes at more competitive prices. When considering aftermarket options, ensure compatibility with your vehicle’s immobilizer system and check reviews for reliability and quality.
Cost-Effective Key Solutions for Your Scion FR-S
The cost of replacing or adding a key for your Scion FR-S can vary widely depending on the type of key and where you get it programmed:
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Dealership Programming: Dealerships typically offer key cutting and programming services but often at a premium price. This can be the most expensive route, especially for remote key fobs.
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DIY Programming (Transponder Keys): As shown in the guide, DIY programming of basic transponder keys can save you significantly on labor costs. You would only need to purchase the blank transponder key and potentially pay for key cutting if needed.
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Professional Locksmiths: Automotive locksmiths are often a more affordable alternative to dealerships for key programming, especially for remote fobs. They usually have the necessary tools and expertise to program a wide range of car keys.
In Conclusion
For Scion FR-S owners needing a new or spare key, understanding your options is key to saving time and money. DIY programming is a viable option for basic transponder keys and can save you from hefty dealership fees. Explore the different types of Scion FR-S key fobs available to choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. If DIY programming proves challenging or if you require remote functionality programming, seeking assistance from a professional locksmith or a trusted service like keyfobprog.com is recommended.
