I got used (2007) Toyota Camry.

It came with 2 keys, one of them had the hook broken. The key has a transponder and a remote in the handle.

I did not feel like paying $200 for a replacement key at the dealership.

I found that one can get a key shell (on ebay). The key will need to be cut but the transponder and remote can be moved from the old shell to the new shell.

I also found that full replacement key are not a lot more expensive (about $20) but will need to be programmed.

A local locksmith offered to sell me key clones (without the remote) for about $60. The key with remote was more. He also offered to do just the programming. i don’t remember his rate but it was $50 or $100.

I found on ebay and amazon some key programming tools. They run $15-$20.

After ordering and receiving everything, i asked at OSH for the cutting of the key. I know that locksmith typically charge more for auto keys are they are usually stainless steel and require a key cutting machine that will handle stainless steel. OSH quoted me $3 per key for just cutting them.

I was at home depot, and i got them to cut it for free as they don’t have a sell code for just cutting.

Programming took some patience but worked well. i was worried to brick my car.

Using the instructions on the programmer and youtube, i could figure out how to program both the remote and the key to my car. Or more correctly how to program the car to like the remote and the key transponder.

If you try it, the key is to be patient. Programming the remote was easy and quick but the programming of the transponder took a good 30 seconds; on my first few attempts, i was not patient enough and thought it had failed and interrupted the process early.

All in all, I saved over $350 and have a programmer to program more Toyota car keys.

The tool i got : “OBD2 Auto Remote Key Programmer Maker For 96-15 Toyota G and H Chip Scanner Tool”  A green case with a switch for programming either the remote part of the key or the transponder. $23.49 including shipping.

The keys i got: “2 Remote Keyless Entry Car Key Fob for 2007 2008 2009 2010 Toyota Camry hyq12bby” $18.49 including shipping.

The key shell: “Replacement for 2007-2010 Toyota Camry Sedan Remote Car Key Fob Shell Case”  $4.70 including shipping