No Master Key...

[TintedOut]

Yes I was able to obtain a master key blade that opens the glove box from the dealer, cut based on the vin. I was going to copy the valet key chip onto a key with this blade.

Well then. That should work.

 

[civil offroad]

This issue seems to come up on a regular basis and I'm surprised it's not a common service to reprogram the ECU - however difficult it may be. With what the dealers charge to set everything right, it seems there's a big gap for a third party to fill, short of a $500 locksmith call.

Perhaps I should investigate what investment is required to offer the service and expand my key offerings...

That would be a sweet deal @suprarx7nut if offered.

 

[aharlan001]

Several ebay sellers offer the reflash service for around 100$

 

[TexasRed]

I just bought a 2001 LX. It only came with 1 valet key. The valet does start the car as well as lock the glove box but when inserted the security light takes a few seconds to go off.

I bought this car for my wife and she would like to have a key with 3 button function (lock, unlock, panic).

This whole process seems really confusing to me. What is the cheapest route for me to get fully functioning 3 button master key?

 

[flintknapper]

I just bought a 2001 LX. It only came with 1 valet key. The valet does start the car as well as lock the glove box but when inserted the security light takes a few seconds to go off.

I bought this car for my wife and she would like to have a key with 3 button function (lock, unlock, panic).

This whole process seems really confusing to me. What is the cheapest route for me to get fully functioning 3 button master key?

A 'true' Valet key should not lock the glove box, but that aside....you will need to have your ECU reflashed. Once that is done...any key can be programmed as a master. Once you have a working master...up to 4 additional keys can be programmed to the ECU.

A good locksmith can reflash the unit and make you keys. There are also other sources that offer the service of reflashing the ECU only and you can program keys yourself.

To me...it is unconscionable that anyone would sell a vehicle with only a Valet key to start it.

 

[aharlan001]

The way I did is the cheapest. Reflash the ecu 100$ + outgoing shipping. 45$ for 2 fob keys on Amazon. Dealer will cut your key based on the vin or you can just have your existing key blade copied since the key blade is a master (opens the glove box). Flashed ecu will accept new keys. The fob is easy to program instructions are on the site somewhere. If you don't need a fob key but just a second key a local locksmith should be able to duplicate the key you have both the blade and the electronic chip. Locally the best price I could find was 75$ but others have had better luck.

 

[Mauser]

I just bought a 2001 LX. It only came with 1 valet key. The valet does start the car as well as lock the glove box but when inserted the security light takes a few seconds to go off.

I bought this car for my wife and she would like to have a key with 3 button function (lock, unlock, panic).

This whole process seems really confusing to me. What is the cheapest route for me to get fully functioning 3 button master key?

I can probably help you. I am travelling right now, but will send you a message this evening.