day 5 driving 2023 Tacoma...Key fob, tailgate questions...

Hello All!
I am driving a 2023 push-button-start Tacoma. I have a press button key fob that houses a stick key and on the same keyring I have a totally separate stick key. I assume one of the stick keys should lock the tailgate, but so far, neither key fit into the tailgate lock (tailgate lock may need oil?). Is the key that is housed in the fob a back-up door key and the solo stick-key dedicated to the tailgate? Or?

As always, Thank You in advance!

 

Does it have a pop n lock? Do you have a bed cover or can you reach in and open the tailgate? Is the truck new or was it purchased from someone?

 

Hello Greg-tacoma!

I doubt Pop n lock is installed. If it is, it is not working; I can check that tonight. Tailgate opens and closes as expected. I have access to both sides of the tailgate. Truck is used but still under warranty.
Best!
.oto

 

Both keys should fit the tailgate and vice versa (the fob-key might switch orientation versus using in the door itself, anyone correct me if I'm wrong).

 

I believe you're correct. My stick key fits the door and tailgate. It isn't as smooth as a traditional key, but it works. It only goes in one direction, at least for the door.

 

@lastcall190 you are correct.

The backup key within the key fob can be used to unlock both the doors and the tailgate, as there is no separate key for the tailgate. The stand alone works the same as well.

 

OP to answer your other question, if the truck is used but still under warranty, might not hurt to just go to the dealer and ask what gives if you have one you trust.

Oh, did you try either key in the front door as well?

 

The keys only fit in the tailgate when correctly positioned. If it doesn't work try flipping the key the other way or 180 degrees. If you look at the key it is not identical on both sides.

 

My 2022 OR came with a tailgate only key. I keep it in the center console.

 

If the key doesn't fit in the tailgate lock, I would research as to why? Was the tailgate repaired (accident?) or stolen? Who knows, it might not be a deal breaker, but if they jive together, I would want to know why.

 

As stated above the key should work, I’d take it back to the dealer and make it their problem. My key works door and tailgate. You can purchase a pop n lock, the one I purchased didn’t require any wire cutting or splicing.

 

For curiosity I just went out and checked the fob key and the stand alone key and they both work door and tailgate on my 2023.

 

BIG Thank You, All! Much appreciated!!

UPDATE: It took a while but after light manipulation and a few micro coats of olive oil on key shaft, I was able to fully insert each key in tailgate lock and verify each work to lock and unlock the tailgate. It's almost like the lock had never been used.
It was after work and late. I'll go back later to verify key to cab lock function.
... with this newfound knowledge, I parked the full sized stick key, ...now, one less key to carry around all the time!

 

...glad you got that figured out.

For what it's worth, I would recommend using graphite lube on locks/keys for smooth operation, instead of olive oil.

Cheers

 

Great news, I would use graphite, oil will collect stuff and ail over time. Look into a pop n loc. it is really great once you have a cover

 

Pop n lock is an add-on. That means you can install it in the tailgate by yourself. That way, you can un/lock the tailgate with your FOB instead of the tailgate key.

 

Thanks again All!

RE: Pop n Lock. I was disappointed that a Pop n Lock type system was not included on this Tacoma especially since the truck is "option heavy" . . ...I was expecting front parking sensor, too, but, oh well...

...Folks on this forum mentioned a Toyota coupon (THANKS!) I was able to order the Toyota version of Pop n Lock right before the coupon expired. ... Price was close to same after discount. Not installed yet. Maybe when weather and temperatures improve.

I appreciate you folks!!!
Best!
.oto

 

For my 22 OR the seperate key and the one in the fob both work for the tailgate

 

I prefer to use the full size key. The one in the fob seems fragile in my large paws and I don't like having to fish it out of the fob to use.

 

why olive oil? are you a chef?