Blank Transponder Key- PLEASE RESPOND

[desmondfox]

If I am able to purchase a blank Transponder Key from some place, is it possible to program it and use it reliably for all 1998 Camry LE cars. I remember having read on some website that 98 Camry LE's have some problems with transponder keys!

My car has a dealer installed security/ engine immobilizer system (as the Red Indicator LED is on the dash to the left of the steering wheel). All I have now is a boomerang shaped 3 button remote and a simple key. I am afraid to trust the remote in case it gets wet/damaged!

Please let me know if anyone has successfully purchased (for a decent price), programmed and reliably used a transponder key.

Thanks,

...DFox

[Joe W]

The transponder key is for a different system.It won't work with yours.

[Mike Gerber]

I'm not certain, but I believe the transponder keys came only with the XLE's that year. They have their own security system and the transponder key is part of the system. I have a 98 XLE and when it was new I priced an extra key and it was around $200 from the dealer for the key and the programing because of the transponder key. Because of this I decided to go with just a $2 all-metal key for a spare in my wallet and left the valet key permanently in the ash tray.

Mike

[desmondfox]

Thanks for replying.

JOEW:
What characterizes a system compatible with transponder keys? My alarm goes off if I insert the all metallic key into the door without disarming the security system with the remote's black button. Also, if I'm inside the car and arm the system with the remote's red button, the engine won't start till I disarm it!

In the worst case I guess I could buy a spare remote. I believe those should be pretty easy to program!

...DFox

[desmondfox]

Nobody here's bought a transponder key here for a car that didn't already come with one!?!?

I'm referring to a 98 Camry LE with dealer installed security system as explained above.

Thanks for any help,
DFox.

[Joe W]

The transponder key is designed to work with a different type of security system with recepters in the keyhole to recognize the transponder key.Please don't waste your money on a key.The remote is the only arm-disarm option for this system.

[qapmaz]

You have a TDS alarm system. It is in no way tied in with the immobilizer system and I believe that model does not have the immobilizer system. The red light on the left side of the dash also serves as a valet button which can also be used if you lose your remote. Your dealer should have supplied you with an owners manual explaining how to put the alarm into valet mode. If you don't have an owners manual your dealer can print one out.

[ponchonutty]

Yes, I 2nd the idea he does not have a transponder system. I work on remote starters and know that he doesn't have that system.

[desmondfox]

Thanks for the replies... sounds pretty logical!