Valet Key Question

Guys sorry for the newbie question ... but since key prices seem to be a source of discussion and consternation, hoping someone has some insight. My wife's 2001 Boxster came with 2 primary keys and a "valet key," which is essentially just a cut blank without any of the keyless entry programming. It's a back-up. I think this is a great idea to have as a back-up and would like to get one made for my 02 996 -- a simple key that opens and closes the door and starts the car in a pinch without all of the remote stuff. Having bought my car used, I'm wondering if a) these cars came with a "valet" key and b) if not, is it possible to have one made without all of the dealer reprogramming hogwash. Just a cold-cut key. Any insight much appreciated!!

My 2001 came with two primary/remote and one valet/no remote. I believe the valet key has a chip that communicates with the immobilizer of the car. It maybe a cheaper option to get,but not a lot cheaper. Please post what you find out about getting an extra valet key.

Thanks. I've been doing some more research and it seems that even the plastic valet keys now delivered in the owners manuals have a chip buried in the head, so I'm going to assume the older metal version do as well. So it's back to buying a new compete key, I guess. I realize this is a long shot -- but I'm checking to see if I can get a key made at the local; VW dealer, which is 10 miles away. Unlikely but worth a call. Nearest Porsche dealer is much further afield. I'm just stunned at how ridiculous, complicated and costly this process is.

Interesting idea...My car only had one key also. I am going to get a second key when I get it back. Please post your findings!

Does the valet key keeps the speed below 25mph?

Not on my wife's Boxster -- it doesn't inhibit anything. Not sure if that's the case with a 996. A traditional "valet key" opens the car's doors and starts it but does not open the trunk or glove box. Not exactly sure what the modern Porsche take is on the subject.

maybe the only benefit is it is cheaper to replace in the event the valet drops the key and steps on it breaking the remote ?

Note to all the "Lurkers" When you get your car make sure it comes with at least two keys and that they WORK!! They are expensive and a pain to get after!!

i was told by the dealer that the valet key still needed to be programed to the car. so valet key still equals $300 no valet key does not keep the car under $25

Very timely. I just got off the phone with the dealer. The difference between a valet head and the remote head is about $120. Blanks metals themselves are obviously the same price. So if you are just looking for a third key -- or a second and don't mind the manual unlock -- good way to save a Benjamin.

I got a valet key from the dealer to be my second key. Don't remember the pricing but did it because it was a lot cheaper. I have cab so don't lock the doors anyway. (Stereos are cheaper than new tops)

It's funy how many of us have bought our P-cars without the second key included. I'm in the same boat and still confusd about the cost to get a second whether a valet or original.

Where do all these keys go? My Targa only came with one as well.

My 2004 Targa came with 3 keys, two programmed remotes, and a "valet" key that had no remote functions. My Turbo came with only 2 keys, both fully remote. I was going to get a valet key made, but geez, not for $300. I would rather do a lot of other things first. larry

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There must be a club called, "Drive Your Old Porsche Like You Stole It CLub". Possibly this chip doesn't concern the first generation MK1 996?

I guess I win the prize here. My 2001 Cab came with 3 full keys and 1 valet key. I was wondering when I. Bought it if they all came like that. All 3 keys had different settings. Maybe one for the wife one for the girlfriend? IDK. I bought it at an online sale. 30k miles I also have a Boxster and lost that key which is why I ended up here.

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I bought my 2001 911 coupe new and it came with three keys. Two that have remote capability, and one without remote capability to be used by valet. The two that have remote capability don't have any settings built in for the seat and mirrors (I have power seats with memory for the drivers' seat and mirrors). I don't know how you got three full keys but consider yourself lucky because each full key will cost over $500 with dealer programming. I recently had to buy just a key blade for my car from the Porsche dealer and not only did it cost something like $175, but I had to bring my license and registration to the dealership before he would order a key blade that was cut to my VIN.