I just got a used 2004 Scion xA, you can see a couple pics here:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/2558721...7594112728985/

The previous owner only had it for a couple months and didn't know much about it nor had any original documentation. He did get a RKE fob from ebay and gave it to me, but I tried to program it, and it didn't work. So ... I have a few questions.

I'm pretty sure the 2004 didn't have the RKE option, and even if it did, mine didn't come with it (got a dealer to print up the original sticker). Neither did it come with a security system, but there is an LED to the left of the steering wheel (but it never blinks). I looked all around under the hood for a horn or some wire tapping and couldn't find anything. The dealer I went to said it wasn't a factory LED.

So ... all I'm really intersted in is RKE. I already have the key FOB ... what else do I need to make the RKE work and where can I get it?

Thanks for any information.

 

I think you need to give up hope of RKE. You can't just some random FOB from eBay to make it work. There is an FCC code on the back of the the FOB, and it is linked to the reciever in the car. Only identical FCC code FOBs can work, and it must be programmed correctly.

Your best bet is to run to your local shop, or eBay, and get yourself a brand new alarm that has a RKE function. It will cost you the same or even more than to have RKE alone installed.

 

yeah, if there isnt the factory rke installed your best bet is an after market unit. or even take the car to a car audio shop and have them look to see if anything is installed. sometimes basic units will use the stock horn and sensors to save cost.

 

Thanks for the info.

"You can't just some random FOB from eBay to make it work."

Like I said, I didn't buy it, the previous owner did and he said it would work, but now I see that he was clueless.

"or even take the car to a car audio shop and have them look to see if anything is installed"

That's a good idea, but ...

If that doesn't work, how hard is it to install a factory/scion RKE? Could I find the unit on ebay? I'm strange and prefer to get OEM stuff whenever possible.

Thanks again for the info.

 

You can get a keyless entry, it is possible in alot of cars that do not come factory equipped with it. I'll check to see who/what we use and will get back with you.

 

If you're able to, why not trace the wires coming back from the LED to wherever they go and see what's hooked up?

 

Yep ... that's likely the plan. I just assumed it was factory when I saw it, I'll do more research now and report back what I find. Thanks for the help.

 

well, i havnt installed one but i've been told the factory unit is a plug and play piece. but the range is extremely limited. one reason i like the after markets. the factory unit is around 250$ while a nice alarm/rke is 250$ installed.