Are you looking to program a new key fob for your 1997 Toyota 4Runner? Whether you’ve lost your old one or simply want a spare, programming your key fob yourself can save you time and money. This guide provides clear, easy-to-follow instructions for programming your 1997 Toyota 4Runner key fob, specifically for vehicles equipped with the RS3000 security system.
Before you begin, it’s crucial to verify that your 1997 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with the RS3000 security system. This programming procedure is specifically designed for this system and will not work with other security systems.
Identifying the RS3000 Security System
The easiest way to confirm if you have the RS3000 system is to locate the security indicator light on your dashboard. This light, as shown in the picture below, is a key identifier of the RS3000 system. Locate this light on your dash to ensure compatibility before proceeding with the programming steps.
Another important point to note is the type of key fob you are using. For the RS3000 system, black remotes must be matched with black remotes. They are not interchangeable with remotes of a different color.
Programming a New Key Fob for your 1997 Toyota 4Runner (ADD Procedure)
Follow these steps to program a new key fob to your 1997 Toyota 4Runner’s RS3000 system:
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Locate the RS3000 ECU Computer: The RS3000 ECU (Electronic Control Unit) is typically located in one of several places:
- Behind the driver’s side kick plate (the panel to the left of the driver’s feet). You may need to remove the plastic panel to access it.
- Underneath any of the seats.
- In the trunk area.
- It might be hidden under the carpet, but you should be able to see its outline.
Consult your vehicle’s repair manual if needed for precise location, though these are common areas.
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Turn Ignition to ON: Insert your key into the ignition switch and turn it to the “ON” position. This is the position right before you would start the engine.
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Push and Hold the Programming Button: Locate the programming button on the RS3000 ECU computer. Push and HOLD this button for 3 seconds. After 3 seconds, the security light on your dashboard (the one you identified earlier) should turn on and remain lit for 5 seconds.
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Press and Release Remote Button: Within 5 seconds of the security light turning on, take the first key fob you want to program and PRESS and RELEASE the top button on the remote. If the programming is successful, the security light will turn off, you will hear a chirp sound, and the exterior lights of your 4Runner will flash once.
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Turn Ignition OFF: Switch the ignition key back to the “OFF” position. The programming for this key fob is now complete.
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Program Additional Remotes (Optional): If you have more key fobs to program (up to a maximum of 4 for the RS3000 system), repeat step 4 with each additional remote.
Erasing All Key Fobs from the 1997 Toyota 4Runner RS3000 System (ERASE Procedure)
If you need to erase all previously programmed key fobs from your vehicle’s system, perhaps due to security concerns, follow these steps:
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Turn Ignition to ON: Insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the “ON” position.
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Push and Hold Programming Button (First Press): Push and HOLD the programming button on the RS3000 ECU for 3 seconds. The security light will turn on for 5 seconds.
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Release, then Push and Hold Again (Second Press): RELEASE the programming button, and then immediately PUSH and HOLD it again for another 2 seconds. If successful, the security light will turn off, you will hear a chirp, and the exterior lights will flash 3 times.
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Turn Ignition OFF: Switch the ignition to the “OFF” position. The erasure process is now complete. None of the previously programmed remotes will function with the RS3000 system until they are reprogrammed using the ADD procedure outlined above.
Need Professional Assistance?
If you encounter difficulties programming your 1997 Toyota 4Runner key fob or prefer to have a professional handle the programming for you, you can search for a local key fob installer in your area. Simply enter your city or zip code in an online search engine to find a qualified professional near you.
