Lost your Toyota Tacoma key fob or need to program a new one? You’re in the right place. Programming your Tacoma key fob yourself can save you time and money compared to dealership services. This guide provides a straightforward, step-by-step process to program your Toyota Tacoma key fob, ensuring you regain convenient access to your vehicle quickly.
Before you begin, ensure you have the correct FCC ID number on your new key fob. This number must match your vehicle’s specifications for successful programming. If you’re unsure, double-check your owner’s manual or consult with a parts dealer to confirm compatibility.
This process outlines using the “Rewrite mode,” which is recommended to clear any previous programming and start fresh with the key fobs you intend to use.
Here’s how to program your Toyota Tacoma key fob:
Programming Procedure
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Start Preparation: Ensure the driver’s door is open and unlocked. Remove the key from the ignition.
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Key Insertion Cycle (1): Insert and remove the key from the ignition switch two times within 5 seconds.
NOTE: Complete steps 2 and 3 within 40 seconds.
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Door Cycle (1): Close and open the driver’s door twice.
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Key Insertion Cycle (2): Insert the key into the ignition and remove it once.
NOTE: Complete steps 4 – 6 within 40 seconds.
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Door Cycle (2): Close and open the driver’s door twice again.
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Key Insertion (Mode Selection): Insert the key into the ignition.
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Door Close: Close the driver’s door.
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Ignition Mode Selection: Turn the ignition switch from “Lock” to “On” and back to “Lock” at approximately 1-second intervals to select the programming mode. For “Rewrite mode” (erasing all previous remotes and reprogramming), cycle the key 2 times.
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Remove Key: Take the key out of the ignition.
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Mode Confirmation: The power locks will cycle “lock” to “unlock” twice to confirm you’ve entered “Rewrite mode.”
NOTE: If you selected a different mode by cycling the key a different number of times in step 8, the locks will cycle a corresponding number of times. For example, one cycle for “Add mode,” three for “Confirmation mode,” and five for “Prohibition mode.”
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Transmitter Programming: Within 40 seconds of the door lock confirmation:
a. Button Press (Simultaneous): Press and hold both the Lock and Unlock buttons on your Tacoma key fob simultaneously for 1 to 1.5 seconds, then release.
b. Button Press (Lock): Within 3 seconds of step 11a, press and hold the Lock button on the keyless entry remote transmitter for more than 1 second and release.
If the remote transmitter is successfully programmed, the power locks will cycle “lock” to “unlock” one time. This confirms successful Tacoma key fob programming.
If the locks cycle twice, it indicates a problem. Double-check that you have the correct Tacoma key fob, and then carefully repeat the entire procedure.
c. Multiple Remotes: If you need to program additional Tacoma key fobs, repeat steps 11a and 11b for each additional remote.
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Exit Programming Mode: Open the driver’s door to finalize the programming procedure.
Alt text: Toyota Tacoma key fob remote with two buttons, commonly used for models between 2005 and 2015, showcasing HYQ12BBY FCC ID.
By following these steps carefully, you should be able to successfully program your Tacoma key fob. Always ensure you are using a compatible key fob and follow each step precisely for optimal results. If you encounter difficulties, consider reviewing the steps again or seeking assistance from a professional automotive technician.
