2000 Lexus RX300 from North America - Comments

Wow, My key cost's only $.97 and is just a plain metal key with no rubber much less a transponder.

I love my 2001 ES 300 and have had no Key problems... but I have had the same problems as noted above with my 2004 IS 300 keys. Both have broken. Clearly this is a design problem that should be corrected by the dealer/Lexus.

Hi, we fix broken remote shells for Lexus vehicles. Don't throw away your old cracked remote key; we can fix it 99% of the time. You will never have your keys fall apart in your hands again. We use a technique that reinforces the original locking screw, without the use of glue or an external shell clamp. The minor modification is barely noticeable. Replacing your remote battery will be the same as the past! We also reinforce new & replacement keys, because they will all crack due to the design flaw.

We will warranty against normal breakage, the cost is about $25.00 for the repair. All you have to do is remove the electronic transponder and ship me the case with the attached key. Feel free to email us with any questions at LexusKeyRepair@yahoo.com.

Thanks Felix.

Hi;

I have a 200 RX300 and have faced the similar problem with the key fob. Over time, and with cranking the ignition, the screws would break the plastic housing and they both fell apart.

Thanks to the help in this forum, I found a local locksmith who stocked the replacement shells. He only charged $50 for the new shell and to cut the key. He then just took the existing electronics and placed it into the new housing.

This was really inexpensive as compared to the $350 that the local Lexus dealer quoted to replace the entire fob. They did not even mention that you could just buy the housing. Works like a charm. This is the way to go.

The Lexus RX 300 keys are terrible and the lack of quality is certainly a reason not to buy the car. Our local Lexus dealer acknowledged the problem, noting that the keys break because the ignition is located right behind the wheel and perpendicular to the wheel. This creates an unnatural twisting motion when you start the vehicle. While the dealer said it was a design flaw, it's certainly not something they will fix because the repairs provide good revenue. As a long time lexus owner, I can tell you the quality has diminished. However, as the leading car maker in the US, they really don't care at this point. Don't even bother calling the national Lexus help desk. They used to care about your satisfaction of the car, but that's not the case anymore.

Hi. I recently purchased a beautiful 2002 Lexus RX 300. The vehicle is fantastic, but it came with only the valet key. Lexus tells me that in order to get new master keys made I need to change the whole computer plus order two master keys. This is at a big cost, over $2,000.00. Does anyone know a way around that. Lexus has a program where they change the computer for free if one agrees to buy two masterkeys at full cost. I would be willing to do that, but Lexus no longer responds to my emails on this subject. Problem is, I am Canadian and purchased the vehicle in Florida. Lexus Canada refuses to deal with me unless I cover all costs, over $3,500.00 for keys and computer. Lexus USA does not answer my questions about the Lexus program to replace computer for free for those who have lost all their master keys. My vehicle only came with the valet key! Anyway, I look forward to a educated response. thanks. R. May renoir911@yahoo.ca.

For the person that wrote "don't but the car because of a bad ignition key, get real" I would like to extend an invitation for you to reimburse me 1000+ dollars for key replacement on my wifes 02 RX300 or the 479 dollars for a missed flight because of a broken key. Seems pretty "real" now dose'nt it.

My 2001 ES has had very few problems yet this key thing is a design flaw and they should offer new cases to all owners. It's a piece of plastic for gosh sake. The case shouldn't cost more than a dollar. My second key case just exploded.

I feel all your pain when it comes to the key situation. I have to replace two sets and it will not get better. I feel that Lexus has cut us short and did not follow through with their commitment to quality and excellence. Sorry Lexus you have now lost a customer.