Do I have a CHIP Key ?????

I have a 2012 PreRunner 2WD 4CYL. I go to the beach a lot. I would like to make a cheap ACE Hardware key to bring into the ocean, locking the OEM key and remote in the truck. I would only use the "cheap" key to open the door. Will this work ???

Thanks in advance Be Safe JIM

 

Yes, I keep a cheap flat key in my wallet in case of stupidity.

 

If you have a chipped key, with the ignition off, you should see the blinking red light in the center dash console to indicate that the immobilizer (or whatever toyota calls it) system is active.

Whether you have a chipped key or not, your plan should work regardless. Your "cheap" key will open the doors.

 

I just went to Home Depot last week to get a replacement for when I surf, since the factory keys are soft rubber and I hated taking it on and off the keyring. Went to open the door and worked like a charm. Put in ignition and to my surprise it started. I thought all tacomas came with a chip but i guess not. Upon further investigation, if your key is square, theres no chip, and if it is more rounded off, there is a chip.

 

I believe all TRD models come with the chipped keys standard (I could be wrong about that), but with all other trim packages it is a separate option.

Bottom line: No, not all Tacomas have the chipped keys.