Key Fob Stolen high urgency

Key Fob Stolen: What to Do for a 2022 Toyota Camry (US)

If your 2022 Toyota Camry key fob was stolen, treat it as a security issue—not just an inconvenience. A stolen fob may allow someone to unlock and potentially start the car, especially if it’s nearby. Acting quickly can reduce the risk of theft and lower replacement hassle.

Understanding Your Situation

A thief now has a programmed Smart Key/remote that may still be recognized by your Camry. Until the stolen fob is erased from the vehicle’s system, it can potentially be used to access the car and, in some cases, start it.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Secure the vehicle now: move it to a locked garage or well-lit area, remove valuables, and consider using a steering wheel lock.
  2. Document and report: file a police report (often needed for insurance) and note the VIN, license plate, and when/where the fob was stolen.
  3. Arrange key security service ASAP: contact a Toyota dealer or qualified automotive locksmith to erase the stolen fob from the vehicle and program replacement key(s).

Your Options

Toyota dealer: erase stolen fob + program new Smart Key(s)

Cost: $350-$800+ Time: Same day / 1-3 days (depending on parts and scheduling)

A Toyota dealer can remove the stolen fob from the Camry’s authorized key list and register new Smart Key fobs. You may need to tow the vehicle if you have no working key left, and you’ll need proof of ownership (ID, registration/title).

âś“ Pros:
  • Factory-correct process and parts
  • Dealer can ensure the stolen fob is no longer authorized
âś— Cons:
  • Often the highest cost option
  • May require towing and/or waiting for OEM fob availability

Mobile automotive locksmith: erase stolen fob + supply/program replacement

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

A qualified locksmith can often come to the vehicle, remove the stolen fob from memory, and program a new Smart Key (OEM or high-quality aftermarket, depending on availability). Service capability varies by equipment and region.

âś“ Pros:
  • Convenient mobile service (may avoid towing)
  • Often faster and less expensive than a dealer
âś— Cons:
  • Not all locksmiths can perform full Smart Key erase/program on all Toyotas
  • Aftermarket fob quality can vary—confirm warranty and brand

Insurance claim (comprehensive) + professional rekey/reprogram

Cost: $0-$500+ out of pocket (depends on deductible/coverage) Time: 1-7 days

If covered, your insurer may reimburse some or all costs for key replacement and reprogramming after theft. You’ll typically need a police report and may have a deductible.

âś“ Pros:
  • Can reduce your out-of-pocket expense
  • Creates a documented record of theft and remediation
âś— Cons:
  • Claim process can take time
  • Deductible may exceed the cost of replacement in some cases

Temporary risk reduction while awaiting service

Cost: $0-$80 Time: Same day

If you can’t get immediate key erasure, reduce theft risk by storing the car in a secure location, using visible anti-theft devices (steering wheel lock), and limiting where the car is parked. This does not disable the stolen fob.

âś“ Pros:
  • Immediate steps you can take right now
  • Low cost
âś— Cons:
  • Does not remove the stolen fob from the vehicle’s system
  • Not a substitute for erasing/reprogramming

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t assume the car is safe because it’s locked—if the stolen fob is still authorized, it may still unlock/start the vehicle.

✕ Don’t buy a random online fob without confirming FCC ID/part compatibility and that it can be properly programmed to a 2022 Camry.

✕ Don’t delay erasing the stolen fob from the car’s system—time increases the chance of vehicle theft or break-in.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone steal my 2022 Camry if they have my stolen key fob?

Potentially, yes. If the stolen fob is still registered to your Camry, it may unlock the doors and could enable starting the vehicle depending on proximity and the vehicle’s Smart Key system status. The proper fix is to erase the stolen fob from the car and program new keys.

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

Yes. Keeping a working key doesn’t prevent the stolen one from working. Ask a dealer or qualified locksmith to remove the stolen fob from the authorized key list and then confirm your remaining/new keys function normally.

Do I need a police report for key fob replacement?

A police report is strongly recommended for stolen keys and is commonly required for insurance reimbursement. Some service providers may also request documentation, especially if all keys are lost.

Will disconnecting the battery disable the stolen fob?

No. Disconnecting the battery does not remove a key from the vehicle’s immobilizer/Smart Key authorization memory. The stolen fob remains programmed until it’s erased using proper diagnostic/programming procedures.

⏱️ Urgency Note: High urgency: a stolen, still-programmed key fob is a direct security risk. If the vehicle is accessible to the thief (home, workplace, or known parking area), prioritize moving the car to a secure location and scheduling key erasure/reprogramming immediately.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2022 Toyota Camry.

View Camry Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04