Easy Driver

I bought a new 2009 sport and the dealer gave me two switch-blade style key/remotes for the car. Now I need a valet key. The dealer said I would need to bring in both keys and they would need to reprogram the car and the keys. And they wanted $165 to do this. I kinda feel now like the car should have come with a valet key in the first place.

Is the dealership correct about having to reprogram everything? Is that how much this should cost?

I read the thread below about the DIY method, but it doesn't look like it works on the newer models. Or does it?

https://www.rx8club.com/series-i-do-yourself-forum-73/diy-code-your-own-key-remote-43873/

Thanks for any info.

Tamas

iTrader: (1)

The valet key is standard equipment - at least it was on series I cars and I suppose this did not change with series II.
So if you bought the car new, the dealer must have given you the valet key. If they did not, tell them to rectify the mistake and give you what you were entitled to get when you purchased the car.

Of course they can always say that they gave you the valet key but you lost it... the missing key should have been discovered when you took delivery of the car, otherwise it's rather hard to prove that they did not give it to you already.

I have never used my valet key in the last 6 years... that's probably I never let any valet touch my car

Alexb

iTrader: (1)

how do you get a valet key on a car that doesn't have a remote key or a laser key?...

rotarykillz

iTrader: (1)

push it a little bit..talk about your next car purchase and mention another dealership....you'll get a free one.

ken-x8

Was it standard on all models? Or just the ones with advanced keyless?

I just got the two switchblade keys with my new '06.

Ken

nycgps

iTrader: (1)

I got 1 Switch Blade and 1 Valet. Mine was 05 Shinka.

I heard different story all over the place.

how to get one? You need to cut it at dealership.

Valet key supposed to work only in ignition. Not your Glove box.

kersh4w

iTrader: (3)

05, i got 2 switchblades and 1 valet key.

and the valet key does not need to be programmed since its just a normal key.

PeteInLongBeach

Without consulting the manual, I believe the valet key shouldn't work in the passthrough lock either...

Easy Driver

I was hoping there was some other (cheaper) way, but if that's what I've got to do that's what I'll do.

I had a typical key cut from the switchblade and it only opens the door. I guess maybe the problem is that the valet key can't be programmed so everything else (both my other keys and my car) have to be programmed to match it. I'm wondering what's the use of the little metal tag they gave me with that keycode.