master vs transponder key

[spacebridge]

Hi I',m new to the form although I have had a 1996 avalon for 8 years and loved it. I recently bought a 2004 and am looking forward to driving it. My problem is it only came with a metal valet key. My understanding is that if the metal valet key will drive your car it does not have a transponder key. All you need is to have a master key cut by a locksmith so you can open the glovebox and trunk.

Is this correct information? How do I know if I need a transponder key?

[CupCate18]

I have only the valet key too. I believe you can take it to toyota, have them run the VIN and you can get the "original" (aka opens trunk and glovebox) key. I don't know how much it is though, and I have been able to use everything without the original key so far.

[spacebridge]

Ah if I would have just looked in the owners manual onpage 14 it tells you that if you don't have the grey valet key then you don't have the transponder key. Or if you do have the solid metal valet key then you only need a master key. An auto locksmith can cut you a master key. The end of the key is slightly different than the valet key.