Programming your Lexus RX 350 key fob can seem daunting, but it’s often a straightforward process you can do yourself. Whether you’ve lost a key, added a new one, or simply want to reprogram your existing remote, this guide provides a detailed, step-by-step procedure to help you program your Lexus RX 350 key fob effectively.
Before you begin, ensure you have all necessary materials and are in a suitable environment. The process requires you to be inside your Lexus RX 350 with the driver’s door open and unlocked. Make sure you have your key fob and the ignition key readily available.
Here’s how to program your Lexus RX 350 key fob:
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Initiation Sequence: Begin by inserting and removing your key from the ignition switch twice within a 5-second timeframe. This initial step is crucial for initiating the programming sequence in your Lexus RX 350.
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Door Cycling: Within 40 seconds of the previous step, close and then open the driver’s door twice. This action signals to the vehicle’s computer that you are starting the key fob programming process.
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Key Insertion (Second Time): Insert the key into the ignition and then remove it. This step further prepares the system for programming mode.
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Door Cycling (Second Time): Again, within 40 seconds, close and open the driver’s door twice. This repetitive action is key to navigating through the Lexus RX 350’s programming menus.
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Ignition Key Insertion (Third Time): Insert the key into the ignition once more, but this time, leave it there.
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Close Driver’s Door: Close the driver’s door.
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Mode Selection: Now, you need to select the programming mode. Turn the ignition switch from the “Lock” position to the “On” position and back to “Lock” in roughly 1-second intervals. The number of times you perform this action determines the mode:
- Once: Add mode (to program an additional key fob without erasing existing ones).
- Twice: Rewrite mode (to program new key fobs and erase previously programmed ones).
- Three times: Confirmation mode (to check how many key fobs are currently programmed).
- Five times: Prohibition mode (to erase all programmed key fobs).
For typical programming, you’ll likely use “Add mode” or “Rewrite mode.” Choose the mode that suits your needs.
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Key Removal and Confirmation: Remove the key from the ignition. The power locks will cycle (lock then unlock) multiple times to confirm your selected mode. The number of cycles corresponds to the number of times you turned the ignition in step 7, confirming the mode you’ve entered.
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Transmitter Programming (Add or Rewrite Modes): If you selected “Add” or “Rewrite” mode, proceed as follows within 40 seconds of the door lock confirmation:
- A. Button Press Sequence: Press and hold both the Lock and Unlock buttons on the key fob simultaneously for about 1 to 1.5 seconds, and then release both buttons.
- B. Lock Button Press: Within 3 seconds of step A, press and hold the Lock button on the key fob for more than 1 second, and then release it.
If the key fob is successfully programmed, the power locks will cycle once (lock then unlock) to indicate successful programming. If the locks cycle twice, it indicates a problem. Double-check your procedure and ensure you have a compatible Lexus RX 350 key fob.
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Programming Additional Remotes: If you have more key fobs to program, repeat steps 9A and 9B for each additional remote.
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Exit Programming Mode: Open the driver’s door. This action concludes the programming mode. Test all programmed key fobs to ensure they are working correctly with your Lexus RX 350.
By following these steps carefully, you should be able to program your Lexus RX 350 key fob efficiently. Always ensure you are using a compatible key fob for your vehicle model to avoid any issues during the programming process. If you encounter difficulties, consider consulting your Lexus RX 350 owner’s manual or seeking assistance from a professional automotive locksmith or Lexus dealership.
