This article is from the old blog in 2020:

Because Eeyore came with only one original key (including the remote function) and Ulrich hates to go on such long expeditions with a vehicle and only one key, he inquired at Toyota Abidjan how much a second key with remote function would be. After a few minutes searching in the computer system the dealer employee returned with a figure that blew Ulrich’s mind: about 520,000 cfa (ca. 795€) and it would take about 8 weeks to order and then it needs to be cut and programmed.

Other solutions had to be found. Having having grown fond of the Chinese online order site Aliexpress, Ulrich checked there and compared several offers with the only key he had to make 200% sure he ordered the correct blank key with remote function. USD 21 for two blank keys and remote function and three weeks later they arrived in Abidjan. Ulrich picked them up from the post office, paid the standard 1,000 cfa (ca. 1,50€) for the Ivorian postal service delivery charge.

Yesterday, Ulrich had two keys cut from the original key that was already starting to break apart. A design flaw in these Toyota keys. That was another 10,000 cfa (ca. 15€). Both keys were checked in front of the shop to make sure they would turn in the lock. And they did first try.

Today to the bewilderment and later amusement of the guard, Ulrich performed the key & door dance. The new key had to be programmed to Eeyore so that the remote would work and that the immobilizer system of the car recognises the key as a genuine one to then start the engine. Following the instructions that came with the keys on the AliExpress’ website very closely:

• Open Driver side door
• Put the Original key in and out of ignition for 2 times
• Close and open driver door for 2 times
• Original Key in and out for once
• Shut and open door for twice
• Close door
• Put Original Key in the ignition and Turn ignition on Turn ignition off and remove key
• Door locks will cycle
• etc, etc

Et voilà! Eeyore recognised the new remote to unlock and lock the doors. He then performed dance number two to programme the immobiliser. These instructions were for those who could count up to 6:

• Put Original master key in and out of ignition for 5 times. Finish with key in ignition (in, out, in, out, in, out, in, out, in)
• Open and shut door for 6 times
• Remove original key and insert the new key (Do not turn the key, just insert it into the ignition
• Leave for 60s (or til light goes out)
• etc

Those were 60 verrrrrry long seconds, but in the end the light went off and Eeyore engine roared with the new key!

In the end, Ulrich has two new functional remote keys for Eeyore, spent maybe 10min programming them and paid 36€ or 4.5% of the quoted price. Happy days!