Does my key have a chip in it. Pic enclosed

I have a base model 2012 Tacoma. Can anyone tell if my key has a chip in it by the picture?

Thanks.

 

Don't see anything obvious..

 

I could be wrong, but I believe starting in 2005, Toyota started including immobiliser systems in the cars/trucks. Doesn't matter how base of a vehicle you have, you probably have it.

Pretty easy to copy it from an existing key to a new spare key if you have the techstream software running in windows xp mode + a mongoose cable.

 

Someone correct me if I'm wrong here, but I thought all Tacos w/ immobiliser systems have the flashing indicator on the dash when the key is not in the ignition.

OP, just sit in your car w/out the key in the ignition and you should see the pic below (key outlined by red vehicle)

 

Looks like it -- that's the exact same key I have, and I do have a chip.

It's been well established here that not all Tacomas have the chipped keys (immobilizer) system as it's not a standard feature. I *think* all TRD models have chipped keys (not 100% sure about that), but on the base model and SR5 package Tacos it is a separate option.

I believe that would be the best way to tell...

 

My '06 did not have it and my '10 SR5 doesn't.

 

My 2012 SR5 has it. My 2006 base did not have it.

 

Page 34 of the 2012 owner's manual shows the pictures of the keys with and without an immobilizer. OP's key does not have it.

 

I also have the base 2012 Tacoma and do not have a chip in my key (which looks just like OP's). As ziggynagy pointed out, there would be an indicator on the dash if you had one.

If all else fails, a non-chip duplicate key only costs a few buck at your local hardware store. Get one, make sure your original keys are far from the truck and try starting it.

 

All four cylinder Tacomas Do Not have the immobilizer system on it. Only six cylinder Tacomas have the immobilizer system. It is a cheap way out for Toyota, and it makes you buy a six cylinder to get the theft protection.

 

no lays visible

 

Wow, how convenient!! Kind of weird that Toyota didn't include 20+ year old technology as standard, but I'm not complaining considering the cost of key replacement.

 

Not true.

Not having a chip is a plus IMO.

 

Your 2012 key looks just like my 2010 key which doesn't have an immobilizer. I have a 2.7L, 4 cylinder in my Taco and not having the advanced security system made getting keys cheaper and easier. I don't want to get in a pissing contest but my research shows 4 cylinders do not have immobilizers while 6 cylinders do.
Bill

 

They do in Canada. Mandated by law in 2007, all motor vehicles must be factory equipped with an engine immobilizer.

Frank

 

Reason?

Frank

 

That looks like the key to my 2009 work truck (tacoma). It does not have a chip, my 2006 does have the chip and the key grip is larger.

As others have noted, if you have a chip, there should be a flashing light under the radio when the truck is off.

 

get a 2.50 copy

try it

 

I've never seen anything like that in mine, it's a 4 cylinder SR5. Feature must only be associated with V6 trucks.

 

Nope.

This

Nor does my '08 RC Base.

+10,000
Given the choice, I will not buy a vehicle with a chipped key.

Swimming/surfing/scuba diving... $$$ key replacements and potentially dealer programming to get the ECU to accept one, bulk....
I HATE large tabs.

More than enough reasons for me compared to an item that is not going to protect my truck from anything more than a joy rider... and keeping my doors locked will stop him.