Understanding Your Situation

In this situation, the key fob is missing and may be anywhere from misplaced at home to lost in public. Because the Yukon uses an immobilizer and keyless entry system, a replacement fob must be programmed to the vehicle, and the lost fob should be removed from the vehicle’s authorized keys when possible.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Confirm it’s truly lost: retrace steps, check common spots (bags, coats, couch cushions), and ask any locations you visited about lost-and-found.
  2. Secure the vehicle now: lock it, move it to a safe location if possible, and remove valuables; if the fob may have been stolen, consider notifying local police and your insurance.
  3. Plan replacement and disablement: gather your VIN and photo ID, locate any spare key/fob, and contact a GMC dealer or an automotive locksmith to replace and program a new fob (and delete the lost one if supported).

Your Options

GMC dealership replacement (OEM fob + programming)

Cost: $250-$600+ Time: Same day to 1-3 days

The dealer supplies an original (OEM) key fob and programs it to your 2024 Yukon. They can typically update the vehicle’s key roster so the lost fob is no longer recognized, depending on system capabilities and what keys are present.

✓ Pros:
  • OEM parts and correct programming for your exact trim/package
  • Best chance of properly disabling the lost fob and verifying all functions (remote start, tailgate, etc.)
✗ Cons:
  • Often the most expensive route
  • May require towing or an appointment if you have zero working keys

Mobile automotive locksmith (cut + program on-site)

Cost: $200-$500 Time: Same day

A licensed automotive locksmith comes to your location with compatible fobs and programming tools. They can program a new fob and, in many cases, remove missing keys from the vehicle’s memory.

✓ Pros:
  • Convenient on-site service (home, work, roadside)
  • Usually faster and sometimes cheaper than a dealer
✗ Cons:
  • Capability varies by locksmith and equipment for newer GM systems
  • Aftermarket fobs may have shorter range or fewer features than OEM

Add a spare now (second fob programmed at the same visit)

Cost: Add $100-$300 per additional fob Time: Same day to 1-3 days

When you replace the lost fob, program an additional spare at the same time. Labor is often lower when programming multiple fobs in one session, and you reduce the risk of being stuck with zero keys later.

✓ Pros:
  • Cheaper than doing a second visit later
  • Reduces risk of lockout/immobilizer no-start if a fob is lost again
✗ Cons:
  • Higher upfront cost
  • You must keep the spare stored securely

Insurance/roadside assistance claim (if covered)

Cost: $0-$600 (depends on coverage/deductible) Time: 1-7 days (service) + reimbursement processing

Some auto insurance policies, extended warranties, or roadside plans reimburse part of key replacement costs. You still arrange service through a dealer/locksmith, then submit documentation.

✓ Pros:
  • May reduce out-of-pocket cost significantly
  • Can include towing if you have no working key
✗ Cons:
  • Coverage varies; may have deductibles/limits
  • Reimbursement can take time and requires receipts

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t buy the cheapest “universal” fob online without confirming it’s compatible with a 2024 GMC Yukon and supports all needed features (push-to-start, remote start, tailgate, etc.).

✕ Don’t leave the Yukon parked unsecured while you ‘wait and see’—if the fob was lost near the vehicle or with identifying info, treat it as a security risk.

✕ Don’t attempt DIY programming methods from random videos; newer GM vehicles often require professional tools, and repeated failed attempts can waste time and money.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Calling dealer first without getting quotes
  • Not checking insurance coverage
  • Rushing to tow to dealership
  • Not considering mobile locksmiths

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone start my 2024 GMC Yukon if they find my key fob?

If the found fob is still authorized to your Yukon, it may be able to unlock and start it (especially if it’s close enough to the vehicle). That’s why it’s smart to replace the fob promptly and ask the dealer/locksmith to remove the lost fob from the vehicle’s authorized keys when possible.

What if I lost my only key fob?

You’ll typically need a dealer or a well-equipped automotive locksmith to create and program a new fob. You may need proof of ownership (photo ID, registration/title) and the VIN, and the vehicle may need to be accessed or towed depending on where it is and whether it can be put into programming mode.

Can I track my GMC key fob?

Most OEM key fobs don’t have built-in GPS tracking. If you previously attached a Bluetooth tracker (like an AirTag/Tile-style device), use its app to locate it. Otherwise, your best move is replacement and disabling the missing fob.

Will an aftermarket key fob work on a 2024 Yukon?

Sometimes, but compatibility and feature support vary. For newer GM vehicles, OEM fobs are the safest choice for full functionality and reliability. If using aftermarket, confirm it supports your exact model year and options and that the provider can program it.

Do I need to replace the physical emergency key blade too?

If your fob includes an emergency key blade and it’s also missing, consider replacing it for lockout protection. If you’re concerned the key could be used to access the vehicle, ask about rekeying options and confirm what’s practical for your Yukon.

⏱️ Urgency Note: If the key fob was lost in public, stolen, or lost near your vehicle or home address, treat it as urgent: secure the Yukon, replace the fob ASAP, and have the missing fob removed from the vehicle’s authorized keys to reduce theft risk.

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2024 GMC Yukon.

View Yukon Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04