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Lost Key Fob for a 2024 Toyota Prius (US): What to Do Next, Costs, and Replacement Options

Losing the key fob for a 2024 Toyota Prius can leave you unable to unlock or start the car, especially if you don’t have a spare. The good news: replacements are available through Toyota and some automotive locksmiths, but timing and cost depend on whether you still have another working key.

Understanding Your Situation

A Prius Smart Key fob has been lost or stolen, so the vehicle may be inaccessible or unable to start. If the lost fob remains programmed to the car, there’s also a security risk until it’s removed from the vehicle’s authorized keys.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Confirm whether you have a spare key/fob and check common locations (bags, coat pockets, gym lockers, rideshare, workplace lost & found).
  2. If theft is possible, file a police report and contact your insurer; then plan to have the missing fob deleted from the Prius’s key list as soon as possible.
  3. If the car is parked in a vulnerable location, move it to a secure spot using a spare key; if you have no working key, arrange dealer/locksmith service (and towing if required).

Your Options

Toyota dealer replacement (new OEM Smart Key + programming)

Cost: $350-$800+ Time: Same day to 1-3 days

The dealer supplies a new OEM Smart Key fob and programs it to your Prius. They can also remove the lost fob from the car’s authorized keys for security.

âś“ Pros:
  • OEM parts and factory-correct programming
  • Dealer can typically delete lost keys from the vehicle system
âś— Cons:
  • Often the highest cost option
  • May require an appointment and/or towing if you have zero working keys

Automotive locksmith (mobile fob replacement + programming)

Cost: $250-$650 Time: Same day / 1-2 days

A qualified automotive locksmith comes to the vehicle, provides a compatible fob (OEM or high-quality aftermarket depending on availability), and programs it on-site. Many can also delete missing keys.

âś“ Pros:
  • Convenient mobile service (often no tow needed)
  • Usually less expensive than a dealer
âś— Cons:
  • Not all locksmiths can support the newest model-year systems
  • Aftermarket fobs vary in quality; confirm warranty and return policy

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

Cost: $200-$500 Time: Same day

If you still have one working Smart Key, you can proactively add another fob so you’re not stuck later. This is typically faster and cheaper than an all-keys-lost situation.

âś“ Pros:
  • Avoids the higher cost and delays of an all-keys-lost scenario
  • Reduces the risk of being stranded if the remaining key is lost
âś— Cons:
  • Still requires purchasing/programming a second fob
  • Doesn’t address security unless the lost fob is also deleted

Tow to dealer (when you have no working key and no mobile service is available)

Cost: $450-$1,000+ (including tow) Time: 1-3 days

If you can’t access/start the Prius and a mobile provider can’t help, towing to a Toyota dealer may be required for key replacement and programming.

âś“ Pros:
  • Dealer can complete the job even in difficult all-keys-lost cases
  • One-stop solution if local mobile options can’t support the vehicle
âś— Cons:
  • Added towing cost and coordination
  • Vehicle is out of service longer

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Buying the cheapest online fob without confirming it matches your exact Prius trim and supports proximity/Smart Key functions—many won’t program or won’t work reliably.

âś• Waiting to delete the lost fob from the vehicle if theft is possible; a programmed key can remain a security risk.

✕ Trying DIY programming methods or forcing entry—modern Toyota systems often require professional tools, and damage/lockouts can cost more than a proper replacement.

⚠️ 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 I drive my 2024 Toyota Prius if I lost the key fob?

Only if you still have another working key/fob. Without a working Smart Key, you may not be able to unlock or start the vehicle, and replacement typically requires professional programming.

Do I need to replace locks if my Prius key fob is lost?

Usually no. Most owners address security by having the lost fob removed (deleted) from the car’s authorized keys and then adding a new fob. Physical lock replacement is uncommon unless there’s evidence of targeted theft or a compromised mechanical key.

Will my insurance cover a lost Prius key fob?

It depends on your policy. Comprehensive coverage may help if the key was stolen (often with a police report), but simple loss is commonly not covered. Check your deductible and any key replacement endorsements.

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

Expect to show proof of ownership (registration/title) and a photo ID. The provider may also ask for the VIN, your exact Prius trim, and whether you have any working keys remaining.

Can a locksmith delete the lost fob so it can’t start the car?

Many automotive locksmiths can, but capability varies by equipment and the newest model-year security systems. Ask specifically whether they can both add a new fob and remove missing keys from the vehicle’s key list.

⏱️ Urgency Note: If the fob may have been stolen (or lost with identifying info like your address), treat it as urgent: have the missing fob deleted from the vehicle as soon as possible and park the car in a secure location until then.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

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

View Prius Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04