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Need a Spare Key for a 2023 Toyota Camry? Options, Costs, and What to Do Next (US)

A spare key for your 2023 Toyota Camry can prevent an expensive lockout and reduce stress if your primary key is lost or damaged. The best path depends on whether you have at least one working key and which key system your Camry uses.

Understanding Your Situation

You still have a working key, but you want an additional key/fob as a backup for emergencies, shared drivers, or travel—before you’re down to zero keys (which is usually more expensive).

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Confirm what you currently have: one working smart key fob, a basic remote key, and/or an emergency metal key blade (and whether the spare is for another driver).
  2. Gather essentials before you call: VIN, proof of ownership (registration/title), a photo ID, and your current key(s).
  3. Call a Toyota dealer and a reputable automotive locksmith for quotes using your VIN (ask for the all-in price: key/fob, cutting, programming, and any diagnostic/security fees).

Your Options

Toyota dealer: OEM smart key/remote + programming

Cost: $250-$600 Time: Same day to 1-3 days

The dealer supplies an OEM Toyota key/fob matched to your Camry and programs it to the vehicle’s immobilizer and remote functions. If needed, they also cut the emergency metal key blade.

âś“ Pros:
  • OEM parts and factory-level programming compatibility
  • Good choice if your Camry has newer security systems or you want maximum reliability
âś— Cons:
  • Typically the highest cost
  • May require an appointment and parts availability can delay completion

Automotive locksmith: programmed spare smart key/remote

Cost: $180-$450 Time: Same day

A mobile locksmith verifies your vehicle, supplies an OEM or high-quality aftermarket key/fob (depending on availability), cuts the emergency key blade if applicable, and programs the new key to your Camry on-site.

âś“ Pros:
  • Often less expensive than the dealer and more convenient (mobile service)
  • Can usually handle cutting + programming in one visit
âś— Cons:
  • Not all locksmiths can support every 2023 Camry configuration/security system
  • Aftermarket fobs vary in quality; range and durability can differ from OEM

Buy the key/fob yourself, then pay for cutting + programming

Cost: $150-$500 Time: 1-7 days

You purchase a compatible key/fob (ideally OEM) and then hire a dealer or locksmith to cut/program it to your Camry. You’ll need the correct FCC ID/part number for your exact trim and system.

âś“ Pros:
  • Potential savings if you find a correctly matched OEM fob at a good price
  • You control whether the part is OEM vs aftermarket
âś— Cons:
  • High risk of buying the wrong part number/FCC ID (leading to wasted time and money)
  • Some dealers/locksmiths won’t program customer-supplied or used fobs

Add a spare emergency metal key blade (backup entry only)

Cost: $20-$80 Time: Same day

Cut an additional mechanical emergency key blade that can unlock the driver’s door if the fob battery dies. Note: this does not start the car unless you also have a programmed transponder/smart key present (system-dependent).

âś“ Pros:
  • Low-cost backup for physical entry
  • Useful if your fob battery dies or the fob is damaged
âś— Cons:
  • May not start the vehicle on its own
  • Still need a programmed key/fob for full functionality

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Waiting until you have zero working keys—replacement and programming is usually far more expensive and may require towing.

âś• Buying a used/refurbished smart key fob online without confirming it can be re-registered to your vehicle (many cannot).

âś• Choosing the cheapest option without verifying compatibility (FCC ID/part number), warranty, and whether the quote includes cutting + programming + any service call fees.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting until emergency
  • Not testing spare immediately
  • Buying incompatible aftermarket
  • Overpaying at dealership

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to go to the dealer to get a spare key for my 2023 Camry?

Not necessarily. Many automotive locksmiths can supply and program a spare key/fob for a 2023 Camry, but capability depends on your exact key system and trim. The dealer is the most universally compatible option, while a qualified locksmith may be faster and less expensive.

Can I program a 2023 Toyota Camry spare key myself?

In most cases, no. Modern Toyota systems typically require professional programming tools and security access. You can usually replace the key fob battery yourself, but adding a new key/fob generally requires a dealer or locksmith.

How many keys can be programmed to a 2023 Camry?

It varies by system, but most vehicles support multiple keys. A dealer or locksmith can check how many keys are currently registered and add another if the system limit hasn’t been reached.

What information do I need to get a spare key made?

Expect to provide your VIN, a government-issued photo ID, and proof of ownership (registration/title). You’ll also need your existing working key(s) for the easiest and least expensive programming process.

Is an aftermarket key fob OK for a spare?

It can be, if it’s a high-quality unit that matches your Camry’s required FCC ID/part number and is properly programmed. However, aftermarket fobs can have shorter range or reduced durability compared to OEM, so ask about warranty and return policy.

⏱️ Urgency Note: If you’re down to one working key, it’s smart to make a spare soon—losing the last key can mean higher costs, longer downtime, and possible towing.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

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

View Camry Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04