Key Fob Stolen high urgency

Key Fob Stolen: What to Do Now (2024 Toyota Highlander, US)

If your 2024 Toyota Highlander key fob was stolen, treat it as an immediate security issue—not just an inconvenience. The priority is to protect the vehicle, prevent unauthorized starting, and get replacement keys programmed as soon as possible.

Understanding Your Situation

A stolen smart key (key fob) may allow someone to unlock and potentially start your Highlander if they can access the vehicle. Even if the car is currently safe, the missing fob should be disabled (removed from the vehicle’s authorized keys) and replaced with new, programmed fobs.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Confirm the vehicle is secure: move it into a locked garage if possible, or park in a well-lit area with cameras; remove valuables and keep the remaining key(s) with you.
  2. Report the theft: file a police report and document the key fob details (photos, serial/part info if you have it) for insurance and dealer support.
  3. Schedule key deactivation and replacement: contact a Toyota dealer (or a qualified automotive locksmith with Toyota smart key capability) to erase the stolen fob from the vehicle and program new fobs; ask what documents you must bring (ID, registration/title).

Your Options

Toyota dealer: disable stolen key + program new smart key fobs

Cost: $350-$900+ Time: Same day / 1-3 days (depends on parts availability and appointment)

The dealer verifies ownership, connects Toyota diagnostic equipment, erases the stolen fob from the vehicle’s authorized key list, and programs one or more new smart keys. If all keys are gone, the process may be more involved and can require additional security steps and parts.

âś“ Pros:
  • Most reliable path for a 2024 model with advanced immobilizer/security
  • Can disable the stolen fob so it no longer works with the vehicle
  • OEM keys and documentation trail can help with insurance claims
âś— Cons:
  • Often the most expensive option
  • May require towing if you have no working keys
  • Parts availability can delay completion

Mobile automotive locksmith: replace and reprogram smart key(s)

Cost: $250-$700+ Time: Same day / next day

A qualified locksmith comes to the vehicle, verifies ownership, and programs new smart keys. Many can also remove lost/stolen keys from the system, but capability varies by equipment and vehicle security configuration.

âś“ Pros:
  • Convenient (service comes to you), potentially avoids towing
  • May cost less than the dealer
  • Faster scheduling in many areas
âś— Cons:
  • Not all locksmiths can fully support late-model Toyota smart key systems
  • Quality and warranty vary—must vet credentials and reviews
  • Some situations (all keys lost, security lockouts) may still require a dealer

Insurance claim (comprehensive) for stolen key and rekeying-related costs

Cost: $0-$1,000+ out of pocket (depends on deductible and coverage) Time: 1-7 days (varies by insurer and documentation)

If you carry comprehensive coverage, your policy may reimburse some costs related to stolen keys, replacement fobs, programming, towing, and in some cases lock/immobilizer-related work. You’ll typically need a police report and receipts.

âś“ Pros:
  • May significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expense
  • Creates a documented record of theft
  • Can cover towing if you’re stranded without keys
âś— Cons:
  • Deductible applies and reimbursement may be partial
  • Claim processing can take time
  • A claim could affect future premiums depending on insurer/state

Temporary risk reduction while waiting: secure parking + anti-theft measures

Cost: $30-$150 Time: Same day

Until the stolen fob is disabled, reduce the chance of theft by changing where/how the vehicle is stored and adding visible deterrents (e.g., steering wheel lock). This does not replace disabling the stolen key.

âś“ Pros:
  • Immediate, low-cost deterrence
  • Helps reduce risk while appointments/parts are pending
âś— Cons:
  • Does not deactivate the stolen key
  • Deterrents can be bypassed and should not be relied on alone

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t assume the vehicle is safe just because it’s currently parked—if the stolen fob still works, the risk remains until it’s removed from the car’s authorized keys.

✕ Don’t buy cheap, unknown-source fobs advertised as “DIY program” for a 2024 Highlander; many won’t program correctly and can waste time and money.

✕ Don’t share your VIN, address, or proof-of-ownership documents with unverified sellers or callers—key theft scenarios are often followed by 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 be disabled so it won’t start my 2024 Highlander?

Yes. A dealer (and some well-equipped automotive locksmiths) can remove/erase the stolen fob from the vehicle’s authorized keys and then program replacement fobs. Once properly removed, the stolen fob should no longer operate the vehicle.

What if the thief also has my address—should I worry about them coming for the car?

Yes, treat it as higher risk. Move the Highlander to a secure location (garage or monitored lot) if possible and prioritize same-day key deactivation. Consider additional visible deterrents until the stolen key is disabled.

If I still have one working key, do I still need to go in right away?

Yes. Having a spare key helps you drive and avoid towing, but it doesn’t reduce the risk from the stolen fob. Schedule key deactivation and replacement promptly.

Will I need to tow the vehicle to the dealer?

Not if you still have a working key and the vehicle is drivable. If all keys are missing or the vehicle can’t be safely moved, towing may be required—some locksmiths can perform on-site service depending on the situation.

How many replacement fobs should I get?

Most owners choose at least two working smart keys for redundancy. If one is stolen, having a second programmed key helps avoid expensive all-keys-lost scenarios later.

Can I just replace the battery or use the mechanical key to solve this?

No. A stolen fob is a security problem, not a battery problem. The mechanical key may unlock the door, but it does not address the stolen fob’s ability to access/start the vehicle if it remains authorized.

⏱️ Urgency Note: High urgency: until the stolen fob is removed from the vehicle’s authorized keys, it may still be able to unlock and potentially start the Highlander. Secure the vehicle and arrange key deactivation 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 2024 Toyota Highlander.

View Highlander Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04