Scion xA Key Fob Programming by Year

Can you program a xA fob without the dealer? For most years, yes. Pick your year for the route and best next step.

Find your year

YearDIY onboard?How it programsWorking fob?Erase riskConfidenceBest next step
2004–2006YesYes - onboard relearnNo (all-keys-lost OK)PossibleMedFollow the steps below

Scion xA key types & programming facts

2004-2006 Scion xA models in the US/Canada use a conventional mechanical ignition key paired with a separate wireless keyless-entry remote. Programming of the remote portion can be done via an onboard sequence using the ignition and driver’s door, without special tools. The key itself typically uses an immobilizer transponder that must be cut and programmed by a locksmith or dealer using appropriate equipment.

Key types used on the xA:

  • standard metal key with separate remote (non-flip, non-smart) (2004-2006)
  • transponder chip key (separate from remote) (2004-2006)

Common fob FCC IDs: BAB237131-056 — check the back of your fob; we confirm the exact variant on site.

2004–2006 Scion xA

Route verified — exact steps vary by trim/equipment

Route verified as onboard programming (no dealer needed). The sequences below are general route guidance — use them only if your vehicle shows the same prompts and controls. If the prompts don’t match, stop and call us.

Show the programming methods (19 steps)

1) Preparation and initial conditions

Programming step
1 Drivers door open, key removed from ignition switch
Wait / timing window
2 Ensure procedure starts within required timeframes (steps reference 5–40 seconds)
Programming step
3 Have existing remotes available if retaining original codes
Programming step
4 Battery replacement recommended if key fob not working

2) Ignition and door sequence to enter programming

Remove the key
1 Within 5 seconds, insert and remove key from ignition switch twice
Close the doors
2 Within 40 seconds, close and open drivers door twice
Remove the key
3 Insert and remove key from ignition switch (single time) after door cycle
Close the doors
4 Within 40 seconds, close and open drivers door twice (second repetition)
Close the doors
5 Insert key into ignition switch and close the drivers door

3) Ignition ON/OFF modes and outcomes

Cycle the ignition ON/OFF
1 Switch ignition ON and OFF once to program a remote while retaining original codes
Cycle the ignition ON/OFF
2 Switch ignition ON and OFF twice to program a remote while erasing the original code
Cycle the ignition ON/OFF
3 Switch ignition ON and OFF three times to check number of remotes currently registered
Cycle the ignition ON/OFF
4 Switch ignition ON and OFF five times to erase all registered remotes
Remove the key
5 Remove key from ignition switch after mode selection

4) System confirmations and programming steps

Press LOCK + UNLOCK
1 System should lock and unlock vehicle once, twice, or five times depending on selected mode
Programming step
2 Once to four times (slowly) indicates how many remotes are programmed
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
3 Within 40 seconds: press and release LOCK and UNLOCK buttons simultaneously on the remote
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
4 Within 3 seconds: press remote LOCK or UNLOCK button to register
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 System should lock and unlock vehicle once to confirm registration or twice to indicate programming failure

How we validate this guide

Year coverage comes from our consolidated vehicle programming dataset. Route-level programming status is reviewed against internal route sheets and available manufacturer, security-access, and professional tool references. Exact button sequences are marked source-verified only when we have year/equipment-specific support; where a year is labeled “route verified, steps vary,” we confirm the exact fob, trim, and prompts before programming. Reviewed for route and safety by Mohammad H. Abdelhadi, ALOA-Certified Master Locksmith.

YearRoute statusExact steps
2004–2006Route verifiedGeneral guidance

Common questions

Does my 2004-2006 Scion xA use a separate remote or a remote-head key?

The Scion xA for these years uses a standard metal ignition key with a separate keyless-entry remote fob, not a remote-head, flip, or smart key system.

Can I program a replacement remote for my Scion xA myself?

Yes. The 2004 Scion xA remote can be programmed using onboard procedures involving the ignition and driver’s door, without a scan tool. Similar remotes for these years are often user-programmable.

Does the Scion xA key have a transponder chip that needs programming?

Key suppliers list transponder key replacements for the Scion xA, indicating the mechanical key includes an immobilizer chip that must be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.

Can you program a xA key fob without going to the dealership?

For most years, yes - the route is onboard relearn or an OBD tool, both of which a mobile locksmith handles at your location.

Does this program the remote only, or the transponder key too?

It depends on your key type. Tell us your FCC ID and we will confirm.

What if my year says professional programming required?

Those years need a programmer or security access; we bring the tool to you and program it on site.

How much does it cost?

It depends on year, key type, and whether you have a working key. Call (833) 439-8636 for a firm price before we dispatch.

Need your xA fob programmed? We come to you, 24/7.
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