No Master Key on 2003 LC

[AppleTech]

I'm looking at a 2003 LC tomorrow that the seller claims has only the valet key. I did not confirm if this was the true grey valet key or if he is just referring to a non-remote key. I am aware of the security light test to see if it is a master or not, which I will check, but in the event that it is a non-master valet key, am I correct in my understanding from reading on here:

1. That I cannot use that key to add other keys.
2. That I cannot do a full "reset" of the ECU that leaves that key as the master as you could with -2002 trucks?
3. That my only option is either calling Toyota and hoping they do the ECU swap or ship the ECU to a locksmith who will reset it for me? (or find one locally, but that is unlikely)
   
4. That I could live with only a valet key and have "clones" made at ACE?

Trying to find out what I'm looking at monetarily as a negotiation point. Vehicle was bought at auction, so no way we will get in touch with previous owners to get master key. Any sage advice welcome. Otherwise truck seems to be good, but I will be inspecting tomorrow and potentially purchasing.

 

[VtaTom]

You might find some more details in search but since you're looking at this cruiser tomorrow I'll share what my experience was.

I purchased a used 2000 at a dealer. If I knew more then I would have had them include masters but I didn't. It was very low miles and I wanted to swoop on it so the only things I had them do with sale were replace right side mirror and do some painting.

Only the valet key was available. From what I understand the keys have a transponder matched to the ECU. To make more keys you need a master.

I ended up paying labor for ECU and two plain master keys (non remote) and there was no charge for parts for new ECU. Toyota factory will swap ECU for new master keys once in life of the vehicle. In my year the ECU cannot be wiped and reprogrammed. I think only much later years can be wiped but I'm not sure.
They also reprogrammed the old valet key to match the new ECU. I think it was a couple hundred bucks total since ECU was a free part but if it had been replaced before I would have had to pay several hundred dollars just for that part.

There could be difference between 2000 and 2003 so YMMV.
Also might be a trick to mount your valet transponder behind the dash near your ignition and use generic cut keys.
I also have after-market remotes so the type of master I bought was cheaper.
I drive with valet and leave masters secured at home.

Hope this helps. Good luck.

 

[TXLX100]

I'm pretty sure 2003 ym LC can be re-seeded at the dealer. Read up on the net or call another dealer perhaps.

 

[costalcat]

I bought my 2003 with what appeared to be a master but was a clone key thus, programmatically, it acted like a valet key.
@TXLX100 is correct because it is a 2003 you can have a locksmith create a master for you. I did this, cost me around $120, he created me two new masters, one with a FOB and then converted the clone to a real master. Since then I have programmed a master with remote myself.

No ECU replacement due to it being a 2003.... and NO you don't have to go to a dealer just a locksmith with the right tools

HTH....