Spare key caused engine not to start - any suggestions for a fix?

Hi All, this past Saturday I jumped in my 2014 Toyota Tundra and used my spare key for the very first time (bought the truck used in Nov '18 and the spare key came with it - doesn't look like a factory key). The truck tried to start but wouldn't, I tried 2 or 3 times. I tried the original key after this but it didn't work either. The battery is fine. I had it hauled to a shop and they couldn't find anything wrong. They called Toyota and a few other dealers and the word is that the spare key has caused the truck to think it is being stolen and now it won't start. I'll be stopping by the shop later this morning to try the original key again but if it still won't start Toyota has told the service shop that the truck will have to be hauled to a Toyota dealer for further investigation. Just wondering if anyone has had this issue or heard of an easy fix?

 

Welcome from NY.
Good luck with the key, keep us updated on the issue.

 

Try your fob to see if that will disable the security lock out. You could also try disconnecting the battery. I have a spare key that was made at home depot. No chip inside of it. When I made it, I tried it in the ignition and the truck would not start. After that I tried my original key and it worked fine. I can’t remember if I had to use the alarm fob or not. Worth a shot though.

 

Thanks for the info, will ask about disconnecting the battery when I get to the shop. This truck doesn't have a key fob. You have to manually unlock the driver side door with the key and there is no remote lock/unlock ability. I will also trying locking the truck door and unlocking with the original key before trying the ignition.

 

The former owner had a spare key made by someone other than a Toyota dealer. I doubt that he ever tried the key to see if it worked. It either lacks the transponder chip of OEM keys, or the key chip was never registered in the ECU. A key not authorized by the ECU will shut off the ignition and fuel delivery to immobilize the truck, but I can't understand why the primary key doesn't work now. A dealer tech should get it all straightened out for you using Techstream.

Welcome to Tundras.com.

 

Thank you - I'll keep you all posted.

 

Since 1998, or so, all new American market trucks/cars have "keys" that must shake hands with the truck/car (ECU?) to authenticate that it is the authorized key. This to cut down on vehicle thefts.

Just know that your truck/car insurance company LOVES YOU!!!

 

Ha! yes, I suppose there is a bright side to this experience in just knowing someone can't steal it with another key . The truck is on it's way to a Toyota dealer now as we still couldn't get it to start with the original key. It actually started rough the first try and then immediately stalled and after that it started doing the same thing as before, just trying to start but not actually starting. Thank you everyone for the information, much appreciated.

 

What ended up being the solution to this? Did they have to re-program keys or what?

 

The spare key set an immobilizer code. I think if you just shut all the doors and lock the car, then open it again with the known good key and start it up with that same key it should work. The spare key either had to be registered by a dealer or was just useless except for maybe locking the glovebox and bed. At least thats my guess.

 

I'm going through same thing right now. I had a key made at Home Depot because I sat on my other one and had bent it. I was afraid it was going to break off in the ignition therefore straightened it and made another. The car will crank, all the electrical works but will not fire. Put my original key in and it will start right up. Put the new one it just cranks. My problem now is I lost my original key. It only had open doors and close door and a panic button and trunk opener. I taken the thing apart change batteries there's no crazy Electronics in it. Has anyone found the solution to this. Greatly appreciated.

 

Pretty sure if you get to a dealer parts counter with your vin they can make you a key.