Toyota Repair: key ignition, auto sone, toyota solara

Question
had key rechipped last sept, now ignition bad. get new igntion at auto sone with a key but no chip in it.  can i install that ignition in my car or does it have to have a chip 2001 toyota solara

Answer
The ignition switch does not have a chip but it is different than the one without chip so make sure you have the one that is made for the immobilizer system, there is a transducer ring that goes on the switch which is re used, the key you have will not work with the switch until it is re keyed, you can have this done at any locksmith so the existing key will work in the new switch, the transponder chip in the old key is then matched to the frequency of the transducer and the computer will let the engine start.