How to Reset the Anti-Theft System on a Toyota Camry
To reset your Toyota Camry’s anti-theft system, use your key or your unique reset code. Learn more here!
Written by Cameron Thiessen
Reviewed by Amy Bobinger
There are three primary ways to reset your Toyota Camry’s anti-theft system. Two involve using your key in the door or the ignition, while the third requires you to deactivate the immobilizer by using your unique code found on your “Code Card” or in your owner’s manual.
If you’re currently unable to get your Camry moving because of its anti-theft system, you’re probably wishing it didn’t have one at all. But having an immobilizer is a good thing, especially since the Toyota Camry is the fourth-most-stolen vehicle in the United States, right behind the
Honda Civic
.But you’re not alone—
car insurance
comparison app and automotive superfan Jerry
is here to help! We’ll share a few solutions that may work for you (and tips on how to save on your Toyota Camry insurance costs
). But if you’re still unable to get your car moving after reading this article, it’s probably a good idea to contact your local Toyota dealership or service center.Compare insurance quotes from 50+ insurance companies with Jerry in under 45 seconds
Compare insurance quotes from 50+ insurance companies with Jerry in under 45 seconds
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There are three main ways to reset your Camry’s anti-theft system. Two of them involve using your key, which has a unique chip in it that tells your Camry that you’re using the key that matches your vehicle.
To reset your anti-theft light, you can either use your key on your car door or in the ignition. To use the car door method, put your key into the lock on the door and turn it. Then, hold the key in the turned position for about 30 seconds. At this point, your Camry should recognize that you are using the correct key. Next, turn the key both ways, first to lock the door again, and then to unlock it. This should deactivate the immobilizer. You should now be able to get in and start the engine.
If you’re able to get into your Toyota Camry but the anti-theft system is preventing you from starting it, you can try getting the ignition to recognize your key. Put the key in the ignition and turn it to the ON position, but do not try to start the engine. Instead, leave the key in the ignition for about 15 minutes.This should cause the anti-theft light to blink, signaling that your car has recognized your key. If not, turn it back off, wait at least 3 minutes with the key still in the ignition, and then try again.
Alternatively, you might have a code card that has a unique security code for your Camry. Put the vehicle into the ON position—either using your key or the start button. Then, press the power button on your infotainment/stereo system. Next, hold the UP button on the tuning control and the 1 button at the same time. This should prompt you to enter your unlock code.
It’s a good idea to consult your owner’s manual, since not all of these solutions will work the same with each Camry model. And if you’re still in doubt, contact your local dealership. They’ll know exactly how to get your particular Camry back up and running.
What does the anti-theft system on a Toyota Camry do?
Your Toyota Camry’s anti-theft system uses a unique computer chip inside your key—called a transponder chip—which communicates with the computer inside the car. The chip in the key fob sends a code to the car computer, and if the car doesn’t recognize the code when an attempt is made to open the door or start the ignition, the engine immobilizer will activate.
If your Toyota safety system’s engine immobilizer has been activated, you should see an anti-theft light that remains on when you try to start your car.
How to program a new transponder key
If you only have one key for your Toyota Camry, it’s a good idea to get yourself a backup. You can order a replacement key from Toyota, but you can also find them via various online sources. Don’t wait until you’ve lost your last key to buy a replacement! You’ll need an original master key in order to program a new replacement transponder key.
To get your new transponder key working, take your uncut replacement key to a locksmith and get them to cut it using the master key. Now, you can use the master key to program the new key.
The process will be different depending on what year your Camry is. Generally, you’ll have to follow this process to program a new key for older models:
- Get in your car and make sure all your doors are closed.
- Take your master key and insert it into the ignition five times, leaving it in on the fifth time.
- Open and close the driver’s side door six times.
- Remove the key from the ignition—your security light should stay on. You’re now in programming mode.
- Insert the new key into the ignition. You should notice your security light blinking. Let it blink for about one minute until it turns off.
- Now, try starting the car with the new key.
If you have a newer model, you won’t find any information on programming a new key in your owner’s manual. You might be stuck with going the expensive route and getting a new key made for you at the dealership.
What can trigger the Toyota anti-theft system?
Your Toyota Camry’s anti-theft system will be triggered if someone attempts to open or start the car with a key that your car’s computer doesn’t recognize. However, your anti-theft system could also be triggered by a malfunction. For example, other electrical signals might interfere with the correspondence between your transponder chip and the car’s computer. A dead battery in your key could also be the culprit.
Calling your Toyota dealership or using a diagnostic scan tool are both good steps to take if you can’t figure out why your vehicle isn’t starting.
Can the Toyota Camry anti-theft system lower your insurance rate?
Anti-theft devices will often help lower your insurance rates. If you have comprehensive coverage, a good security system will usually lower your premium by 5% to 25%!
Toyotas also are known for having great safety features and safety ratings. Vehicles that have a reputation for being safer—especially those with accident mitigation and driver assistance tech will often be cheaper to insure. Generally, Toyota Camrys are quite affordable to insure.
The value of your car will also be significant. If you have a higher trim Camry with more technology features, you’ll likely have to pay more to insure these expensive add-ons. The exceptions here are safety and security features.
You can also add aftermarket anti-theft devices such as active alarm systems or catalytic converter straps. These will also often lower the price of your comprehensive insurance coverage.
How to save on Toyota Camry insurance
You can follow all of the tips mentioned above, but the truth is that the insurance company that you choose also matters when it comes to how high your rates will be. But finding the company that will give you the best deal on your
comprehensive insurance coverage
to protect you from theft-related damages is easier said than done.That’s why you should download the
Jerry
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