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Need a Spare Key for a 2023 Toyota Highlander? Options, Costs, and Fast Next Steps (US)

Getting a spare key for a 2023 Toyota Highlander is smart—especially if you only have one working key fob. Because modern Highlander keys require programming to the vehicle’s immobilizer, planning ahead can save money and prevent a no-start situation. Below are the quickest, safest ways to get a spare in the US market.

Understanding Your Situation

You want an additional working key (smart key fob and/or emergency insert key) for convenience, backup, or sharing the vehicle—before the original is lost or damaged.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Confirm what you currently have: a working smart key fob, the mechanical emergency key insert, and your key “number” tag/card (if included at purchase).
  2. Gather essentials for any provider: vehicle registration/title info, a valid photo ID, and your VIN (from the dash or registration).
  3. Decide your spare goal: full smart key fob (push-to-start functions) and/or a mechanical emergency key insert for door access.

Your Options

Toyota Dealer: OEM Smart Key + Programming

Cost: $300-$650 Time: Same day to 1-7 days (depends on key availability/appointments)

The dealer supplies an OEM Toyota smart key fob and programs it to your Highlander’s immobilizer and smart key system. They can also cut the emergency key insert if needed.

âś“ Pros:
  • OEM key and correct programming procedures
  • Best option if your vehicle has newer security requirements or limited third-party support
âś— Cons:
  • Usually the most expensive route
  • May require an appointment and waiting for parts

Automotive Locksmith: Aftermarket or OEM-Compatible Smart Key + Programming

Cost: $200-$500 Time: Same day to 1-3 days

A qualified automotive locksmith supplies a compatible smart key (sometimes OEM, sometimes aftermarket) and programs it on-site or in-shop. They can also cut the emergency key insert.

âś“ Pros:
  • Often cheaper than the dealer
  • Mobile service can be convenient
âś— Cons:
  • Compatibility varies by fob brand and vehicle security system
  • Quality depends heavily on locksmith equipment and experience with late-model Toyotas

Add a Mechanical Emergency Key Insert Only (Door Key Backup)

Cost: $30-$120 Time: Same day

Have a mechanical key insert cut for the driver door. This does not start the vehicle but can unlock the door if the fob battery dies or the fob is unavailable.

âś“ Pros:
  • Low-cost backup for lockout scenarios
  • No electronic programming required
âś— Cons:
  • Will not start a push-to-start Highlander
  • Still need a working programmed fob for normal driving

Buy a Key Online, Then Pay for Cutting/Programming Separately

Cost: $180-$600 Time: 2-10 days (shipping + appointment)

You purchase a fob online (OEM or aftermarket), then hire a dealer or locksmith to cut the emergency key insert and program the fob to the vehicle.

âś“ Pros:
  • Potential savings if you source a correctly matched fob
  • More control over brand/price
âś— Cons:
  • High risk of wrong part number/region mismatch or unusable used fobs
  • Some dealers/locksmiths won’t program customer-supplied keys

⚠️ What to Avoid

âś• Buying a used/refurbished smart key fob without confirming it can be registered to your vehicle (many used smart keys are locked to the original car).

✕ Assuming any Toyota-looking fob will work—part numbers, FCC IDs, and frequency/region must match for reliable programming and function.

✕ Waiting until you’ve lost your only working key; adding a spare is typically faster and cheaper when at least one working key is present.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I program a 2023 Toyota Highlander spare key myself?

In most cases, no. A 2023 Highlander smart key typically requires professional tools and authorization to register the fob to the immobilizer/smart key system. DIY “on-off door” procedures generally do not apply to modern push-to-start systems.

Do I need an OEM Toyota key, or will an aftermarket key work?

OEM keys are the safest compatibility choice. High-quality aftermarket keys can work, but success depends on the exact fob match and the programmer’s equipment. If you want the lowest risk of issues (range, remote functions, reliability), choose OEM through a dealer or a locksmith who can supply OEM.

What documents will I need to get a spare key made?

Expect to show a valid photo ID and proof of ownership (registration, title, or insurance/registration combo). Providers may also request the VIN.

Should I also get an emergency key insert cut?

Yes, if your spare fob doesn’t include one or you don’t already have a backup. The insert can help you get into the vehicle if the fob battery dies, but it won’t start the engine on a push-to-start model.

⏱️ Urgency Note: If you currently have only one working smart key, getting a spare soon is strongly recommended. Losing the last working key can turn a simple spare-key visit into a more expensive, time-consuming all-keys-lost situation.

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