WTH is this thing?

So I just finished up installing Trail Grid Pro's 'upgrade' to my non-JBL factory stereo. Part of the install includes an ODB plug that the new Sony head unit uses to get vehicle info that can be displayed in real-time - kind of a cool feature!

So anyway in making that ODB connection, I notice this 'thingy' next to it, screwed into the kick panel under the steering column. Definitely NOT a Toyota part.

I have no idea WTF it's for and have no recollection of putting it there. It's like some kind of 'port' with a face that looks like something would plug into it, and the bottom side (pictured) has this button on it. I've fiddled around pressing it while the ignition's on and also when the engine's running, but it does nothing far as I can tell.

Racking my brain to try to recall if it's something I did ... got the truck in April '11 and can pretty much recall every other DIY thing I've done. Maybe I'm losing my mind

Anyone else got something like this installed and can tell me what it is/does?

 

Looks like it might be a dealer installed "security" device or something. Pic is blurry but are there any part numbers or anything?

 

Yeah, quick bit of google got this. https://www.reddit.com/r/ToyotaTaco...anybody_know_what_that_thing_with_the_little/

A comment or two down IDs it as a KARR alarm that is dealer installed.

 

Yes.

 

I wondered if that might be the case, as no other explanation made much sense.

Never used it, probably never will. At least it's a clean, nondescript install.

 

I found the same thing on my ‘13 when I bought it. Dealer installed garbage. I’m not 100% sure if it’s just a valet button or something more nefarious in the case of needing to repo a vehicle. Either way, I had the dealer uninstall it. But that was almost 12 years ago.

 

If you haven't noticed it or it hasn't had any ill effects to your charging/electrical system I'd leave it be at this point.