matts6887

Somehow I seemed to have either misplaced or possibly lost my valet key that came with my rx when we bought it used at the beginning of this year. Now with that said; can i just buy another complete valet key off ebay and program it to start my rx by programming it using one of the 2 master keys I have? I thought i remember seeing somewhere that this in fact can be done. Can this be done?

salimshah

Physically the valet key has a slight adjustment to the grooving (personalization). That prevents the valet from opening the trunk [ha ha for RX] and the glove compartment. The registration is slightly different as it is not recognized as a master key (to prevent copying).

I am not sure how an average locksmith would know how to cut the new key as a valet key. They can mostlikely duplicate (but you do not have a valet key). Dealer should be able to do it. As far as electronics are concerned make sure the key NOT registered as a master key [sorry I lack the know how].

Bottom line is I feel very little advantage in having a valet key for RX. I would be more concerned about leaving my gas card in the vehicle.

Salim

matts6887

Well; can i still get this accomplished somehow if i get one off ebay salim? I mean I would still rather have a valet key on hand for those times when I may need it.

salimshah

Theoretically? Yes. But you will need a place that can cut the key with vin # AND with the understanding that it will be a valet key. Can you find such a place on ebay?

Programming? Theoretically, yes. But wait for some one who has done the programming of the keys to respond.

Salim

Z07

FWIW I replaced my wife's RX's ECU because the RX only came with a valet key and no master and the replacement ECU came with a master. I successfully programed in the valet key to the replacement ECU.

So if you can get a valet key cut then you should have no trouble programming it in. I remember reading about the limits and seem to recall that an ECU can have 7 master and 3 valet keys total before someone would have to reflash it to add in a new key.

matts6887

Correct me if wrong; but arent there instructions somewhere on here for programming keys?

jusnick987

Here's the link to key programming. https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...for-99-rx.html
Hope this helps.