Key Fob Stolen high urgency

Key Fob Stolen: What to Do for a 2023 Hyundai Tucson (US)

If your 2023 Hyundai Tucson key fob was stolen, treat it as a security issue—not just an inconvenience. The priority is preventing the stolen fob from unlocking or starting your vehicle, then getting a new fob programmed to your Tucson.

Understanding Your Situation

A stolen key fob may still be able to unlock the doors and enable push-button start if it remains programmed to your Tucson. Until the missing fob is removed from the vehicle’s memory, the thief may have a direct path to access or steal the car.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Move the vehicle to a secure location (locked garage if possible) and remove valuables; if you can’t move it, park in a well-lit area and consider a steering wheel lock.
  2. File a police report and contact your insurance company (comprehensive coverage may help); document the fob type, VIN, and where/when it was stolen.
  3. Arrange for the stolen fob to be erased (all keys re-registered) and a replacement fob programmed by a Hyundai dealer or qualified automotive locksmith as soon as possible.

Your Options

Hyundai dealer: erase missing fob + program new OEM smart key

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

The dealer verifies ownership, erases the stolen fob from the vehicle, and programs a new OEM smart key fob (and cuts the emergency insert key if applicable). Often requires the vehicle present; towing may be needed if you have no working fob.

âś“ Pros:
  • OEM parts and factory-level programming procedures
  • Can ensure the stolen fob is removed from the car’s system
âś— Cons:
  • Usually the most expensive route
  • May require towing or appointments; parts can be backordered

Automotive locksmith: erase/re-register keys + supply/program compatible smart fob

Cost: $250-$600 Time: Same day

A qualified mobile locksmith comes to the vehicle, verifies ownership, erases the stolen fob (by re-registering keys), and programs a replacement fob. Some locksmiths can provide OEM; others use high-quality aftermarket/compatible remotes.

âś“ Pros:
  • Often faster and more convenient (mobile service)
  • Typically less expensive than the dealer
âś— Cons:
  • Capability varies by locksmith and equipment
  • Aftermarket fobs can vary in feel/features; confirm return/warranty terms

Insurance claim (comprehensive): replacement and reprogramming

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

If you have comprehensive coverage, your insurer may reimburse part of the cost for replacement fobs, programming, and possibly towing. You’ll usually need a police report and may need to pay a deductible.

âś“ Pros:
  • Can significantly reduce out-of-pocket cost
  • May cover related expenses like towing
âś— Cons:
  • Deductible may exceed the fob cost
  • Claim processing time and documentation requirements

Temporary security measures while waiting (not a substitute for reprogramming)

Cost: $30-$150 Time: Same day

Use a steering wheel lock, park in a secured/monitored area, and consider disabling access to the vehicle where feasible (e.g., keep it in a locked garage). These steps reduce risk while you schedule key erasure/reprogramming.

âś“ Pros:
  • Immediate risk reduction
  • Low cost and widely available
âś— Cons:
  • Does not disable the stolen fob
  • Not foolproof against theft

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t delay erasing/re-registering keys—until that’s done, the stolen fob may still work.

✕ Don’t buy the cheapest online fob without confirming FCC ID/part compatibility and that it can be programmed to a 2023 Tucson (many listings are incorrect or non-returnable once attempted).

✕ Don’t share photos of your key, key tag, VIN, registration, or address online—those details can help a thief target your vehicle.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone steal my 2023 Tucson if they have my stolen key fob?

Yes. If the stolen fob is still programmed to your Tucson, it may unlock the doors and allow push-button start. The fix is to have the vehicle erase the missing fob from memory (often done by re-registering all remaining keys) and program new fobs.

Do I need to replace the whole car’s locks if the fob is stolen?

Usually not. For push-button start vehicles, the critical step is removing the stolen fob from the vehicle’s key memory and programming new fobs. If your physical emergency key (insert blade) was also stolen and you’re concerned about mechanical entry, ask the dealer/locksmith about rekeying the door lock cylinder (if applicable) and cutting a new emergency key.

Can I program a new smart key fob myself for a 2023 Hyundai Tucson?

In most cases, no. Smart key fobs for late-model Hyundais typically require specialized diagnostic tools and security access to register/erase keys. Plan on a dealer or a qualified automotive locksmith.

What information will a dealer or locksmith need to help me?

Expect to show proof of ownership (registration/title) and a matching photo ID. They may also need the VIN and to physically access the vehicle for programming.

If I still have one working fob, do I still need to erase the stolen one?

Yes. Having a working fob doesn’t protect you if the stolen fob remains authorized. Ask for the missing fob to be deleted and confirm how many keys are registered after the service.

⏱️ Urgency Note: High urgency: a stolen, still-programmed smart key can allow immediate vehicle access and potential theft. Secure the vehicle and schedule key erasure/reprogramming as soon as possible—ideally the same day.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

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

View Tucson Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04