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Lost Key Fob for a 2024 Toyota Tundra (US): What to Do Next

Losing the key fob for a 2024 Toyota Tundra can leave you stranded and worried about security, especially if the fob may have been stolen. The good news is you have several safe replacement paths—dealer, mobile locksmith, or (in limited cases) adding a spare if you still have one working key.

Understanding Your Situation

Your Tundra uses a smart key fob (push-button start) that communicates electronically with the truck. When the fob is lost, you may not be able to unlock or start the vehicle, and if the fob is in the wrong hands, it could potentially be used to access the truck unless steps are taken to replace and (when possible) remove lost keys from the vehicle’s authorized list.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Confirm whether you truly have zero working keys: check home, workplace, gym bags, coat pockets, and ask anyone who may have borrowed the truck; if you have a second fob, keep it with you and don’t leave it in/near the vehicle.
  2. Secure the vehicle: park in a well-lit area, lock doors (use the physical key if available), remove valuables, and consider disabling access to the fob if you use Toyota app services (change account password and enable 2-factor authentication).
  3. Gather what you’ll need for replacement: VIN, driver’s license, registration/title (proof of ownership), and your exact trim/year info (2024 Tundra, US market); then contact a Toyota dealer and/or an automotive locksmith to compare availability and pricing.

Your Options

Toyota dealer replacement smart key fob (cut key + program)

Cost: $450-$900 Time: Same day to 3-7 days (depends on fob availability/ordering)

The dealer orders or supplies the correct OEM smart key fob and programs it to your 2024 Tundra. If your Tundra uses an emergency/insert key blade, they can also cut it. If all keys are lost, the dealer may need the vehicle present and may perform an all-keys-lost registration procedure.

âś“ Pros:
  • OEM parts and factory-correct programming
  • Best option when all keys are lost or security is a concern
âś— Cons:
  • Often the most expensive route
  • May require towing/transport if the truck can’t be started

Mobile automotive locksmith (smart key replacement)

Cost: $300-$700 Time: Same day to 1-2 days

A qualified automotive locksmith comes to the truck, supplies a compatible smart key fob, and programs it on-site. Many can also cut the emergency key blade if applicable. Capability varies by equipment and by Toyota security system support.

âś“ Pros:
  • Convenient on-site service (may avoid towing)
  • Often less expensive than the dealer
âś— Cons:
  • Not all locksmiths can program late-model Toyota smart keys
  • Aftermarket fobs vary in quality; confirm warranty and return policy

Add a spare key (if you still have one working smart key)

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

If you still have at least one working smart key fob, you may be able to add/program an additional fob more easily than an all-keys-lost situation. This can be done by a dealer or a locksmith depending on equipment and parts.

âś“ Pros:
  • Usually cheaper and faster than all-keys-lost replacement
  • Reduces the risk of being stranded again
âś— Cons:
  • Doesn’t automatically address the risk of the lost fob still being out there
  • Still requires correct fob type and programming

Insurance/roadside assistance support (reimbursement or towing)

Cost: $0-$200 out-of-pocket (varies by coverage) Time: Same day to 1-3 days

Some auto insurance policies, extended warranties, or roadside plans may cover towing to a dealer/locksmith and may reimburse part of key replacement costs (coverage varies). This is typically used alongside dealer/locksmith replacement rather than instead of it.

âś“ Pros:
  • May reduce towing and replacement expenses
  • Can speed up logistics if you’re stranded
âś— Cons:
  • Coverage is inconsistent and may have limits/deductibles
  • Still need a dealer/locksmith to supply and program the key

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Buying the cheapest online fob without confirming exact compatibility (FCC ID/part number, frequency, and whether it’s truly new/virgin and programmable for your truck).

✕ Using an unvetted service that can’t prove licensing/credentials or won’t provide an itemized quote, warranty, and proof of what was programmed.

✕ Leaving the truck unattended in a vulnerable location while assuming the lost fob is harmless—treat a lost fob like a potential security risk, especially if it was stolen with identifying info.

⚠️ 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 Toyota Tundra if they find my key fob?

If the fob is functional and close enough to the truck, it may be able to unlock and start it. That’s why it’s smart to act quickly: secure the vehicle, replace keys promptly, and ask the dealer/locksmith about removing lost keys from the vehicle’s authorized key list when possible.

Do I have to tow my Tundra to the dealer if all keys are lost?

Sometimes yes, depending on the programming procedure and dealer policy. A capable mobile locksmith may be able to do all-keys-lost programming on-site, which can avoid towing—but not all locksmiths support late-model Toyota systems.

How many keys should I have for a 2024 Tundra?

It varies by trim/package and what was provided at delivery. Many owners receive two smart key fobs, but some deliveries have been affected by supply constraints in recent years. Check your purchase paperwork and ask the selling dealer what was originally issued.

Can I program a new Toyota smart key myself?

For most late-model Toyota smart keys, DIY programming is typically not practical without professional tools and security access. Plan on using a Toyota dealer or a properly equipped automotive locksmith.

⏱️ Urgency Note: If your key fob was lost in a public place, stolen, or attached to anything with your address/vehicle info, treat it as time-sensitive. Prioritize securing the truck and arranging replacement and (when available) key deactivation/removal as soon as possible.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

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

View Tundra Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04