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Lost Key Fob for a 2023 Toyota Highlander (US): What to Do Next

Losing a key fob for a 2023 Toyota Highlander can be stressful, especially if you’re not sure whether the vehicle is secure or how quickly you can get a replacement. The good news: you have several safe, legitimate replacement paths depending on whether you have a spare and where the car is located.

Understanding Your Situation

A 2023 Toyota Highlander uses a smart key fob (push-button start on most trims). If the fob is lost, anyone who finds it may be able to unlock and start the vehicle if it’s nearby, so the priority is securing the car and replacing (and ideally deleting) the missing key from the vehicle’s system.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Confirm it’s truly lost: retrace steps, check bags/coats, and use any tracking app/tag if attached (AirTag/Tile).
  2. Secure the vehicle: move it to a locked garage if possible, remove valuables, and if you suspect theft, consider arranging a tow to a secure location.
  3. Gather essentials before calling for help: VIN, registration/title, photo ID, and your exact trim (and whether you have a spare fob).

Your Options

Toyota dealer replacement smart key (recommended for most owners)

Cost: $350-$700 Time: Same day to 3 days

The dealer orders or supplies an OEM smart key fob and programs it to your Highlander. Ask them to delete/disable the lost fob from the vehicle so it can no longer start the car.

âś“ Pros:
  • OEM parts and correct programming for your exact trim
  • Dealer can remove the lost key from the vehicle’s authorized key list
  • Clear warranty/parts support path
âś— Cons:
  • Often the most expensive option
  • May require appointment and proof of ownership
  • If the dealer must order the fob, you may wait a few days

Mobile automotive locksmith (smart key replacement)

Cost: $250-$550 Time: Same day

A licensed automotive locksmith comes to the vehicle, supplies a compatible smart key fob, and programs it on-site. Many can also delete the missing fob, but you must confirm this service explicitly.

âś“ Pros:
  • Usually faster and more convenient than a dealer
  • Often less expensive than OEM dealer pricing
  • On-site service if the vehicle can’t be driven
âś— Cons:
  • Capability varies by locksmith and region
  • Some aftermarket fobs may have reduced durability or features vs OEM
  • Not all locksmiths can reliably delete the lost key—confirm before booking

If you still have a spare: add a new key and delete the lost one

Cost: $200-$600 Time: Same day to 2 days

Use your remaining working smart key to get the vehicle to a dealer/locksmith for programming. You’ll add a replacement key and request removal of the missing key from the system.

âś“ Pros:
  • Less urgent than being fully stranded
  • May reduce towing/lockout costs
  • Best path to restore having 2 working keys
âś— Cons:
  • Still important to delete the missing key for security
  • If the lost key is later found, it may no longer work after deletion
  • Pricing varies widely depending on OEM vs aftermarket fob

Insurance or roadside assistance claim (when applicable)

Cost: $0-$500+ (depends on coverage/deductible) Time: Same day to 1-2 weeks (reimbursement varies)

If your policy includes key replacement or you have a roadside plan, you may be reimbursed for locksmith/dealer replacement or towing to a safe location.

âś“ Pros:
  • Can reduce out-of-pocket cost
  • May include towing or lockout assistance
  • Useful if the vehicle is stranded away from home
âś— Cons:
  • Coverage varies; may require deductible or limits
  • May not cover OEM fob cost fully
  • Claims/reimbursement can take time

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t leave the vehicle accessible while the lost fob is still active—anyone with the fob may be able to unlock/start it.

✕ Don’t buy the cheapest online fob without verifying compatibility (FCC ID/part number), return policy, and who will program it.

✕ Don’t assume programming automatically disables the missing key—specifically request deletion/erasure of the lost fob from the vehicle.

⚠️ 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 drive my 2023 Highlander if they find my key fob?

Potentially, yes. If the found fob is close enough to the vehicle, it can unlock the doors and enable starting. That’s why it’s important to secure the vehicle and have the lost fob deleted/disabled during replacement.

Do I need to tow my Highlander to the dealer if I lost my only key?

Not always. Many mobile locksmiths can replace and program a smart key on-site. If you use a dealer and you have no working key, towing may be required unless the dealer offers mobile service in your area.

Will deleting the lost key fob prevent it from unlocking the doors too?

In most cases, removing a smart key from the vehicle’s authorized list prevents it from starting the vehicle and typically disables its smart access functions for that vehicle. Confirm with the dealer/locksmith that the lost key is fully removed from the system.

What information do I need to get a replacement key fob?

Expect to provide photo ID and proof of ownership (registration/title). Having the VIN helps. If using a locksmith, they may also ask for the vehicle’s exact year/make/model/trim and whether the car has push-button start.

⏱️ Urgency Note: Treat a lost smart key as a security issue. If you suspect the fob was stolen (or lost with identifying information like your address), prioritize deleting the lost key and moving the vehicle to a secure location as soon as possible.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2023 Toyota Highlander.

View Highlander Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04