Valet key replacement

Perce · #1 (**permalink**) 02-15-2006, 03:34 AM

How do I obtain a replacement valet key?

I used to carry it with me when going to restaurants and hand it over to the valet after locking some misc items in the glove box like my radar detector. I somehow managed to misplace it.

Can anyone point me in the right direction?

RitcheyRch · #2 (**permalink**) 02-15-2006, 08:02 AM

Take your registration to the dealer and they will make a valet key based on the vehicles VIN number.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Perce

How do I obtain a replacement valet key?

I used to carry it with me when going to restaurants and hand it over to the valet after locking some misc items in the glove box like my radar detector. I somehow managed to misplace it.

Can anyone point me in the right direction?

Thai · #3 (**permalink**) 02-15-2006, 04:29 PM

No matter how fancy the place is, I'd never trust valet parking.

Perce · #4 (**permalink**) 02-17-2006, 11:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Thai

No matter how fancy the place is, I'd never trust valet parking.

Believe me, I drive around the block several times before going to the valet. It's always my last resort. Parking is terrible in some of the area I go to. That or my woman is not in the mood to walk a couple blocks in heels.

Any idea how much a new valet key runs at the dealer?

Monkey's Uncle · #5 (**permalink**) 03-12-2008, 04:03 PM

I have the same problem. My dealer tried and all I got was a third black key. Have you managed to get a replacement? How much did they charge?

LifeTech · #6 (**permalink**) 03-12-2008, 08:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Perce

How do I obtain a replacement valet key?

I used to carry it with me when going to restaurants and hand it over to the valet after locking some misc items in the glove box like my radar detector. I somehow managed to misplace it.

Can anyone point me in the right direction?

First,Do yu know if yu have a transponder key Immobiler key system?

Dealer only. Sorry. It will actually cost a little more than a master key. From my experience. It gets programmed differently, because the transponder in the key is specific to a valet key. And it also has a slightly different "CUT". A Locksmith just can't cut it against your master key. The dealer must look up the "Valet cut code" and punch out a copy using a special key punching tool. Only a dealer has this info. and tool and can do this.

Again, I know this from experience as a Parking Valet has lost my Valet key already once before on my Avalon. I believe it cost well over $100. Can't remember exactly. Dealers charge way different prices . Shop around. The Valet company paid for it though. But I first got a police report at the restaurant. Then the Valet comapany took me serious enough to pay me.
I had the dealer RECODE all the master keys as well with a new code so the person with my "LOST Valet key" wouldn't steal my Avalon in the future.
The Toyota Recoding is designed just for this purpose. The keys are the same but the chips inside them get a new code. So the old Valet key code will not allow the car to start.

I believe the OE Valet Key Blank( before cutting and programming) was like $50.
Good luck.

LifeTech

LifeTech · #7 (**permalink**) 03-12-2008, 09:07 PM

If yu get a GOOD dealer parts Dept.... yu will get the GREY valet key by specifying exactly what yu want/need. Must make it very clear.
The GREY colored FOB indicates that it is a Valet key and by electronic design it cannot be duplicated code wise. For anti-theft reasons. Because it is a key that yu give out to strangers!
Many dealers don't have a clue, and just give yu a new Black Master key.

And I believe due to the added security design, that's why it will cost more than a Master key.

LT