What is a Valet Switch? Valet Button? Programming Button?
They are all the same thing!
Here we have some examples of the valet button/switch:
Sometimes when an alarm shop installs an aftermarket system with a valet/bypass switch they don't mount the switch or they don't hook it up completely.
What you need to do is look for the keyless entry receiver (brain). It is usually located under the dash on the driver or passenger side. It is a plastic box with wires coming out of it.
It will have plugs where the wires go in it. It may have two to four plugs. The largest plug will definitely have wires plugged in. Then there will be smaller ones. One of the smaller ones will have blue plastic surrounding the plug. That is where the valet switch plugs in.
If there is something plugged in then follow the wire as this leads to where the switch/button is located. If there is nothing plugged in then take a metal paper clip and touch it to both metal terminals inside the blue plastic plug. This will make the system think you are pressing the valet switch/button.
The valet can be placed by the installer anywhere in the vehicle or no where. However, usually it is placed near the dashboard and usually on the driver’s side.
Some of the pictures show just the valet button or switch by itself. Other pictures show it in it’s mounted position in the vehicle. Installer’s best practices dictate that the valet switch should be mounted but many don’t follow best practices.
Lot’s of older systems use a toggle switch as shown in a few different pictures.
Note that some systems have a button and a switch and this usually indicates it is a remote start system where the toggle switch is used simply to turn remote start functionality on and off. In those cases the button is the valet button (also known as override button or programming button.)
Also, it’s good to know that on the toggle switch style valet switches, the position which has a small notch in the metal is the OFF position.
Why do you need a valet mode?
Car owners need to let others operate their cars eventually. Valet parking, a mechanic at your local repair shop are examples of times when you want to have your car disarmed so you don't have to hand over the expensive remote, just the key. You wouldn't want to face the inconvenienbce if they lose or damage it. The valet button or switch permits the owner to temporarily bypass the alarm functionality of the system. To enter or exit valet mode, disarm the system with a working transmitter, your personalized manual override code, or using the procedure below which is to enter or exit valet mode.
1. Enter the vehicle & insert then turn the ignition key to the ON position.
2. On systems from the late 1990s and newer, using trial and error, press & hold the valet button 1-5 times for a second each time. On systems from the mid 1990s and earlier, turn the valet toggle switch to the off position.
On both scenarios the system will now remain in valet mode.
3. To return to normal operation, repeat steps 1-2.
NOTE: Remember to exit the valet mode (unless you are dealing with something that seems to you like a malfunction) This will ensure that the vehicle remains protected at all times.
Use the Security / Remote Start System In Your Car
If you bought a used car that has a valet switch or button most likely you can order a new remote. Look under the dash for a plastic box (the receiver or brain of the system) and use the Brand and Model name printed on it to search for the correct replacement aftermarket key fob remote transmitter.