2024 Toyota Highlander Key Fob Guide (US): Types, Batteries, Programming & Costs

The 2024 Toyota Highlander (US market) commonly uses Toyota’s Smart Key system, where a proximity “smart” fob enables keyless entry and push-button start. Many trims also support a digital key/connected services features through Toyota’s apps, but the physical fob is still the primary credential for most owners. Replacement and programming typically require security authorization, so costs and availability can vary by dealer, region, and supply. Before buying a replacement, consumers generally find it’s essential to match the correct frequency/fob type and confirm whether the vehicle uses a separate emergency insert key.

2 Key Types
$250-$650 Dealer Range
$30-$200 Aftermarket Range

Compatible Key Fob Types

The following key types are typically compatible with the 2024 Toyota Highlander. Compatibility varies by trim and options.

Smart Key (Proximity) Remote Fob — Push-Button Start

A proximity smart key fob that allows passive keyless entry (unlocking when you touch the handle with the fob nearby) and push-button start. It typically includes an emergency mechanical key insert for door access if the fob battery is dead.

Features

  • Proximity keyless entry (touch-to-unlock with fob nearby)
  • Push-button start (immobilizer authorization via smart key)
  • Remote lock/unlock and panic (and often remote liftgate)

Buttons

unlocklockpanicrear hatch

Battery

CR2032

3-5 years typical lifespan

Dealer OEM $250-$550 Programming included
Aftermarket $60-$200 Programming separate

Programming

🏢 Dealer Required

Programming typically requires a compatible scan tool and security access to register the smart key/immobilizer to the vehicle. Many Toyotas also require all existing keys to be present for certain add-key procedures; if all keys are lost, additional steps (and higher cost) are common. Some vehicles may require an emergency key insert to be cut separately to match the door lock.

⚠️ Common Issues

  • Dead or weak CR2032 battery causing intermittent unlocking or no-start
  • Aftermarket fob not matching the vehicle’s frequency/board revision (won’t program)
  • Worn or damaged emergency key insert or latch mechanism
  • Reduced range due to battery quality, interference, or fob damage

Digital Key / Phone-as-a-Key (Toyota connected feature, where equipped)

A smartphone-based key feature available on some configurations via Toyota’s connected services ecosystem. It can allow locking/unlocking and starting the vehicle using a paired phone, depending on trim, subscription status, region, and system compatibility.

Features

  • Phone-based lock/unlock (where supported)
  • Phone-based start authorization (where supported)
  • User management/sharing via app controls (where supported)

Buttons

unlocklockremote start

Battery

N/A

Varies typical lifespan

Dealer OEM $0-$200 Programming included
Aftermarket $0-$0 Programming separate

Programming

🏢 Dealer Required

Setup typically requires an eligible vehicle, a compatible smartphone, an active Toyota account, and completing enrollment steps in the Toyota app and/or vehicle menus. Some features may depend on a paid subscription and cellular connectivity. Digital key is not a full substitute for a physical fob in all situations (e.g., dead phone, connectivity/app issues).

⚠️ Common Issues

  • Feature availability varies by trim and subscription; not all vehicles support it
  • Phone OS/app updates can disrupt pairing or permissions
  • Connectivity limitations can affect remote features

Cost Comparison: Your Options

🏢

Dealership

$250-$650
  • âś“ OEM quality guaranteed
  • âś“ Programming included
  • âś“ Warranty coverage
  • âś— Higher cost
  • âś— May require appointment

Best for: Warranty coverage, guaranteed compatibility

🔧

Locksmith

$150-$450
  • âś“ Often same-day service
  • âś“ Mobile options available
  • âś“ Programming included
  • âś“ Often OEM parts
  • â–ł Verify credentials

Best for: Speed, convenience, moderate savings

📦

Aftermarket Online

$30-$200
  • âś“ Lowest cost option
  • âś“ Wide selection
  • âś— Programming not included
  • âś— Compatibility varies
  • â–ł Check return policy

Best for: DIY-capable owners, budget-conscious

Total cost usually depends on whether you still have a working key (add-a-key) versus all keys lost, whether an emergency key insert must be cut, and whether the fob is OEM, refurbished, or aftermarket. Dealers often price higher but may offer the most predictable compatibility; automotive locksmiths can be a lower-cost option in many areas; aftermarket fobs vary widely in quality and returnability.

đź›’ Buyer's Checklist

Before purchasing a replacement key fob for your 2024 Toyota Highlander, verify these points:

1 Confirm the vehicle has push-button start (Smart Key) vs. any rare configuration differences; match the correct key type.
2 Verify the replacement fob is correct for US-market frequency and the exact Highlander generation; ask for proof of compatibility by VIN when possible.
3 Avoid listings that omit critical identifiers (FCC ID/IC/part number) or use vague phrases like “fits Toyota models” without specifics.
4 Plan for the emergency key insert: you may need a separate cut key blade and/or to transfer the insert from the old fob if compatible.
5 Buy from sellers with clear return policies in case the fob cannot be programmed to your vehicle.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

âś—

Buying the wrong fob variant (wrong frequency/part number) and discovering it won’t register to the vehicle

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Assuming a used/refurbished smart key will always reprogram—many are locked to the original vehicle or unreliable

âś—

Forgetting to budget for cutting the emergency key insert and the programming labor (the fob alone is not the total cost)

Related Model Years

Key fob compatibility often spans multiple model years. These years typically share similar key systems:

2020 2021 2022 2023 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a 2024 Toyota Highlander use a smart key or a traditional key?

Most US-market 2024 Highlanders use a Smart Key (proximity) fob with push-button start. The fob typically includes an emergency mechanical key insert for door access if the fob battery is dead.

What battery does the 2024 Highlander key fob use?

The smart key fob commonly uses a CR2032 coin-cell battery. Battery type can vary by fob revision, so consumers generally confirm by opening the fob or checking the owner’s manual.

Can I program a 2024 Highlander key fob myself?

For most 2024 Highlander smart keys, DIY onboard programming is typically not available. Programming usually requires a dealer or an automotive locksmith with the proper security authorization and diagnostic equipment.

Need Help With a Specific Situation?

🚨 Lost All Keys What to do when you've lost your only key ➕ Get a Spare Add a backup key before emergencies 🔋 Dead Battery Replace your key fob battery ⚖️ Compare Options Full comparison of all options

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Last updated: 2026-01-04