Harry, there is no place to use the mechanical key in my 2006.  I thought I knew the vehicle pretty well after 7 years and 108k miles, but I just spent a little time trying to find what you mentioned, since you seemed pretty sure.  There is a slot where the "smart key" (the fob) can be inserted when the "smart function" is turned off or in case the battery in the smart key is bad.  This will complete a circuit so that the vehicle can then be started in the normal manner by pressing the "start" button.  The owner's book clearly states that the mechanical key is for the driver's side door lock only.  So, lose the smart key or simply want a spare, pony up the cash to Toyota.  You won't start the car with the driver's side door key.  mcneely

---- Harry Hoffman <hhoffman@IP-SOLUTIONS.NET> wrote:

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David McNeely