I recently lost one of my "original transponder keys" to my 2007 Toyota Sienna. I know that the transponder key system prevents theft of my car but the present system of key replacement is expensive and very inconvenient. I called several Toyota Dealers and the general rule is $65 for the key, $95 for the programing. Unfortunately it gets even better. In order for the privilage of paying this money for the copy, it is necessary to make an appointment which can last for one hour to one and a half hours. This is mearly to copy my own key even though I have the original. If I loose the two "Masters" and only have the "Valet" key the process get more complicted and a certainly more expensive. Apparently this whole system is rigge to for the Dealers and certainly not for the Toyota customers who have to jump through hoops just to copy their "own" keys. I can only figure that the theif would have a far easier time than I will with the present Toyota Transponder system.

You can compare this with Honda, since I also own a Honda Civic 2002 also with a Transponder key. I bring the original to the parts shop, wait 15 minutes, and pay $65 for a completed programed key. I am that someone is going to tell me that Toyota Transponder's systenm is far superior but for all the aggravation I am not sure it is really worth it. I will bet that both Transponer systems prevent theft, the Honda system is just a lot more customer friendly and a lot cheaper too.