Key Fob Stolen high urgency

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

If your 2023 Toyota Highlander key fob was stolen, treat it as a vehicle security issue—not just a lost key. The priority is preventing unauthorized entry/starting, then replacing and reprogramming keys so the stolen fob no longer works.

Understanding Your Situation

A stolen smart key fob may allow someone to unlock and potentially start your Highlander (especially if the vehicle is nearby). Even if the car isn’t taken immediately, the stolen fob can be used later unless it’s removed from the vehicle’s authorized key list and new keys are programmed.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Confirm the vehicle is secure and relocate it to a safer place (garage/secured lot) if possible; remove valuables and keep the remaining fob away from doors/windows.
  2. File a police report and document what was stolen (key fob, any house keys, registration, address items). If your address was in the vehicle, consider changing home locks.
  3. Contact a Toyota dealer (or qualified automotive locksmith) ASAP to schedule key replacement and immobilizer/smart key reprogramming to delete the stolen fob; ask about towing if you have no working keys.

Your Options

Toyota dealer: replace smart key + erase stolen fob (recommended)

Cost: $350-$900+ Time: Same day / 1-3 days (parts availability dependent)

The dealer verifies ownership, supplies a compatible Toyota smart key fob, and programs it to the vehicle while deleting the stolen fob from the authorized key list. If you have zero working keys, the dealer can still perform an “all keys lost” procedure (may require towing/extra labor).

âś“ Pros:
  • Most reliable way to ensure the stolen fob is disabled
  • Correct OEM parts and programming for the 2023 Highlander smart key system
âś— Cons:
  • Typically the highest cost option
  • May require appointment, proof of ownership, and possible towing if no keys remain

Mobile automotive locksmith: replace/program smart key + delete stolen fob

Cost: $250-$700+ Time: Same day / 1-2 days

A qualified locksmith comes to the vehicle, supplies a compatible fob (OEM or high-quality aftermarket), programs new keys, and can typically remove/disable the stolen fob from the vehicle’s system. Confirm they can perform smart key/immobilizer work on a 2023 Highlander and provide an itemized invoice.

âś“ Pros:
  • Convenient (often no towing needed)
  • Can be faster than a dealer depending on availability
âś— Cons:
  • Capability varies by locksmith and equipment
  • Aftermarket fobs can be inconsistent; warranty/support may vary

Insurance claim (comprehensive) for stolen key + rekey/reprogram

Cost: $0-$500+ (deductible dependent) Time: 1-7 days

If you carry comprehensive coverage, your policy may help pay for replacement fobs, programming, and possibly lock rekeying if keys were stolen. You’ll still need a dealer/locksmith to do the actual programming and deletion of the stolen fob.

âś“ Pros:
  • Can reduce out-of-pocket cost for expensive smart keys
  • Creates documentation of the theft
âś— Cons:
  • Deductible may exceed the repair cost
  • Claim handling can add time

Short-term security measures while waiting (not a substitute for reprogramming)

Cost: $20-$150 Time: Same day

Until the stolen fob is deleted, reduce risk by storing remaining keys in a signal-blocking pouch, parking in a locked garage or well-lit area, and using physical deterrents (steering wheel lock). Consider temporary tracking solutions if appropriate.

âś“ Pros:
  • Immediate risk reduction
  • Low cost and easy to implement
âś— Cons:
  • Does not disable the stolen fob
  • Deterrents can be bypassed and should not be relied on alone

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t assume the vehicle is safe just because it’s still there—schedule deletion of the stolen fob as soon as possible.

✕ Don’t buy cheap, unverified fobs online before confirming exact compatibility and return policy; incorrect fobs can’t be programmed and waste time.

✕ Don’t share your VIN, registration details, or key information with unverified callers or pop-up “locksmith” ads—use reputable providers to avoid scams.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not deactivating stolen key
  • Delaying reprogramming
  • Not filing police report
  • Ignoring security risk

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a stolen key fob start my 2023 Toyota Highlander?

If the stolen fob is still authorized to your vehicle, it may be able to unlock and start it (especially if the vehicle is within proximity). The fix is to have the vehicle’s smart key system reprogrammed to remove the stolen fob and add replacement keys.

If I still have one working key, do I still need reprogramming?

Yes. You should have the stolen fob deleted from the authorized key list. Simply adding a new fob without deleting the stolen one may leave the stolen fob functional.

Do I need to tow the vehicle to the dealer?

Not always. If you still have a working key, you can usually drive it to the dealer. If you have no working keys, towing may be required unless a qualified mobile locksmith can perform the all-keys-lost procedure on-site.

Will changing the battery in the stolen fob stop it from working?

No. The fob remains authorized in the vehicle’s system. Battery changes only affect whether the fob can transmit; it doesn’t remove authorization.

What proof of ownership will I need?

Typically a valid photo ID plus registration/title (requirements vary). This is a normal security step to prevent unauthorized key programming.

Should I change my door locks too?

Consider it if the stolen keys included a physical key blade that fits your vehicle or if your home address was accessible (for example, on registration or other documents). A dealer/locksmith can advise whether rekeying is warranted based on what was stolen.

⏱️ Urgency Note: High urgency: a stolen smart key is a security risk. Arrange to delete the stolen fob and program replacement keys as soon as possible, and park the vehicle in a secure location until the system is updated.

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