Transponder Key Programming - 4th Gen (2003-2006)

[Capt Kirk]

2006 4Runner Transponder ignition key programming

After finding multiple references to programming replacement "Transponder" keys for my 2006 4runner WITH NO SUCCESS,I was able to determine that there are some discrepancies in this procedure. First even though my "Gray" Valet key(has a dot) WILL start my 4runner, it will not allow it to go into program mode. I did have an additional "BLACK" transponder key, and the following procedure worked on the first try;
(1) Close all doors and windows
(2) You will Insert and remove Black transponder key into ignition 5 times, BUT on the 5th insertion leave it in the ignition Do NOT turn key only insert it
(3) Open and close drivers door 6 times
(4) Remove ignition key, security light should stay off
(5) Insert New transponder key Do not turn key, security light should slowly blink,(1 sec inervals) after a minute or so light will go out, remove key and insert "ORIGINAL key and start vehicle. remove key and insert new key and START vehicle to test.
If when inserting second key security light flashes rapidly, then remove new key, insert "BLACK transponder key restart vehicle then start the process from #1 again.
I am not sure why my "GRAY" "Valet"with a stamped "DOT" next to the plastic head of the key will start my vehicle, this has been some what of a "WTF" moment, but I have to believe that this is causing alot of self programmer faults. Still looking for the "Transponder key code erase procedure, anyone out there having access to this could post it here and help alot of people out. Oh and I just saved over a $150, using an Amazon "RemotesRemotes.Com" $8 key which the locksmith said would not work. Home Depot cut the key for free, I offered to buy a blank but cut mine, but was told "its not a problem" "HOME DEPOT" I owe you and I will be back.
Also additional keys can be programmed just start from #1, Also note that this is "TIME" sensative, when doing this try and complete it as smoothly and quickly as possible, each step has approx. 20 second limit,

 

[Eddie Haskell]

I am not sure why my "GRAY" "Valet"with a stamped "DOT" next to the plastic head of the key will start my vehicle, this has been some what of a "WTF moment.

I believe the valet key will do everything but unlock the glove box, maybe someone can verify. I do know the gray key has to start the vehicle for the valet to park the vehicle…right?
I also am having issues with my new to me 2004 Sport and only have a valet key. I found a locksmith that will make and program a new key for 75.00 but told him I would do more research. It sounds like I’m going to have to bite the bullet unless someone can tell me they have successfully programmed one of our vehicles using a “Valet” key? If I have to use a locksmith, I’m going to ask if he will do 2 keys for that price, I don’t think is an unreasonable ask…

 

[AuSeeker]

I believe the valet key will do everything but unlock the glove box, maybe someone can verify. I do know the gray key has to start the vehicle for the valet to park the vehicle…right?
I also am having issues with my new to me 2004 Sport and only have a valet key. I found a locksmith that will make and program a new key for 75.00 but told him I would do more research. It sounds like I’m going to have to bite the bullet unless someone can tell me they have successfully programmed one of our vehicles using a “Valet” key? If I have to use a locksmith, I’m going to ask if he will do 2 keys for that price, I don’t think is an unreasonable ask…

I responded to Capt Kirk's same question in another topic, here's my reply, which answers your question, which is you can't program another key with the gray "Valet", you need to have a black "Master" key to do it yourself.

"Not sure where you got that info for the gray "Valet" key, the gray valet key WILL unlock the doors, the gray valet key WILL start the vehicle....but the gray valet key WILL NOT unlock the glove box so the "valet" can't steal anything of value you have locked in the glove box, the purpose of the valet key is to allow the valet to take your vehicle park it and then return the vehicle to you when you're ready to leave, but doesn't allow him/her to go into the glove box to get at your valuables.

This info about the gray valet key not unlocking the glove box and using it for a valet is in your owner's manual but it's referred too as the gray "Sub" key.

To program another key you need to use a "Master" key which is the black key, a gray valet key will not work for programming a new key.

Both the Master key and the Sub "Valet" key have chips in the head to allow them to start the vehicle."

 

[RTRSPRFTR]

to add onto AuSeeker, the valet/gray key is a "sub-key" which cannot be used to set the car into programming mode to program additional keys. you're allowed 5 unique master keys and 3 unique sub-keys. what the locksmith is likely going to do is just clone your subkey.

if you don't have a master key but want one, the process is not that hard, just a little bit time. it requires getting a new master key cut by VIN at your local dealer (buy key online and many dealers charge $10-15 to cut your key). then using techstream and a new immobilizer token, you can reset your immobilizer to program new master key and sub-keys.

some more info here: Transponder key woes...
and to use techsteram some info here: How-To: TechStream In 5 Minutes | IH8MUD Forum

 

[Jeebus]

I upgraded my keys when I purchased my 4Runner last year. The instructions above look like the proper steps.
I watched a few vids on YouTube, then found a seller for a Chilton repair manual that had the same instructions.

I'm quite sure I used the original black key and not the gray one.

Here is the fob that I purchased off AliExpress, around $27, got the blade cut at a local locksmith for a few bucks, and programmed the remote myself. Totally DIY-able.

Key points when purchasing aftermarket keys is ensuring that the FCC ID and the mhz are the proper ranges. Most key remote listing will show the applicable cars anyhow, but make sure they match!

 

[locked up]

My used 03 only came with 1 key.
It's at the shop at the moment and I don't recall if it is gray or black but...

If I go to the dealer to have spares made, will they be able to delete any prior keys?

Or is the limit of 5 master keys "forever"?

 

[AuSeeker]

My used 03 only came with 1 key.
It's at the shop at the moment and I don't recall if it is gray or black but...

If I go to the dealer to have spares made, will they be able to delete any prior keys?

Or is the limit of 5 master keys "forever"?

If you have a black master key, you, a good locksmith and or the dealer can easily make more copies and program them, you also can delete all the programed keys that you don't have any longer making room for new key/s.

If you don't have a master key the dealer can make and program you one using your VIN number and their "Special Service Tool"...i.e. their scanner.

 

[locked up]

If you have a black master key, you, a good locksmith and or the dealer can easily make more copies and program them, you also can delete all the programed keys that you don't have any longer making room for new key/s.

If you don't have a master key the dealer can make and program you one using your VIN number and their "Special Service Tool"...i.e. their scanner.

Thanks!

Master key .... Is it just the color of the key head that makes the difference?

 

[AuSeeker]

Thanks!

Master key .... Is it just the color of the key head that makes the difference?

Yes, you can also tell it's a master key IF it will lock and unlock the glove box, a valet key will not do that, it's that way so you can give the parking valet your "valet/gray" key and he can't get into your glove box where you locked something of value to keep it safe.

And of course with a master key you can program new keys or or remove old keys from the ECU, a valet key can't do either.

 

[SocalSam]

I bought an OEM key and had dealer cut according to the Toyota computer record for my VIN. I then used this pristine copy on two cheapo ebay keys. I did all programming myself. Ebay remotes are not so great, the panic button is not recessed enough so get too many inadvertent alarm activations.