Key Fob Stolen: What to Do for a 2023 Toyota Highlander (US)
If your 2023 Toyota Highlander key fob was stolen, treat it as a vehicle security issue—not just a lost key. The priority is preventing unauthorized entry/starting, then replacing and reprogramming keys so the stolen fob no longer works.
Understanding Your Situation
A stolen smart key fob may allow someone to unlock and potentially start your Highlander (especially if the vehicle is nearby). Even if the car isn’t taken immediately, the stolen fob can be used later unless it’s removed from the vehicle’s authorized key list and new keys are programmed.
🚀 Immediate Steps to Take
- Confirm the vehicle is secure and relocate it to a safer place (garage/secured lot) if possible; remove valuables and keep the remaining fob away from doors/windows.
- File a police report and document what was stolen (key fob, any house keys, registration, address items). If your address was in the vehicle, consider changing home locks.
- Contact a Toyota dealer (or qualified automotive locksmith) ASAP to schedule key replacement and immobilizer/smart key reprogramming to delete the stolen fob; ask about towing if you have no working keys.
⚠️ What to Avoid
✕ Don’t assume the vehicle is safe just because it’s still there—schedule deletion of the stolen fob as soon as possible.
✕ Don’t buy cheap, unverified fobs online before confirming exact compatibility and return policy; incorrect fobs can’t be programmed and waste time.
✕ Don’t share your VIN, registration details, or key information with unverified callers or pop-up “locksmith” ads—use reputable providers to avoid scams.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not deactivating stolen key
- Delaying reprogramming
- Not filing police report
- Ignoring security risk
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a stolen key fob start my 2023 Toyota Highlander?
If the stolen fob is still authorized to your vehicle, it may be able to unlock and start it (especially if the vehicle is within proximity). The fix is to have the vehicle’s smart key system reprogrammed to remove the stolen fob and add replacement keys.
If I still have one working key, do I still need reprogramming?
Yes. You should have the stolen fob deleted from the authorized key list. Simply adding a new fob without deleting the stolen one may leave the stolen fob functional.
Do I need to tow the vehicle to the dealer?
Not always. If you still have a working key, you can usually drive it to the dealer. If you have no working keys, towing may be required unless a qualified mobile locksmith can perform the all-keys-lost procedure on-site.
Will changing the battery in the stolen fob stop it from working?
No. The fob remains authorized in the vehicle’s system. Battery changes only affect whether the fob can transmit; it doesn’t remove authorization.
What proof of ownership will I need?
Typically a valid photo ID plus registration/title (requirements vary). This is a normal security step to prevent unauthorized key programming.
Should I change my door locks too?
Consider it if the stolen keys included a physical key blade that fits your vehicle or if your home address was accessible (for example, on registration or other documents). A dealer/locksmith can advise whether rekeying is warranted based on what was stolen.
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