2020 Toyota Corolla Key Replacement

The 2020–2022 Corolla uses the same key setup, so everything on this page applies to those years too. The full picture is on the Toyota Corolla key guide.

2020 Toyota Corolla: key facts

Key type: Flip key
Push-to-start: No
Transponder chip: H (128-bit DST-AES)
Programming: OBD
All keys lost: We can originate new keys on site

Base trims use an H-chip flip key (HYQ12BFB, OEM listings 2020-2021); SE/XLE/XSE smart-key cars use the HYQ14FBN fob on the NXP Hitag-AES 4A system (transpondery.com). For all-keys-lost on 2020+ smart-key cars, US jobs generally require Toyota server codes with locksmith-credentialed (LSID/NASTF VSP) TIS access; add-a-key with a working fob is less restricted.

What kind of key does a 2020 Corolla use?

The 2020 Corolla was sold with two different key setups, and which one you have depends on the trim.

Base trims use a flip key. The blade folds into the remote head, and inside is a transponder chip from the H family (128-bit DST-AES). That chip is verified for this year. The car will not start unless the chip is recognized, so cutting a blade alone does nothing. Our records list the flip key as the HYQ12BFB.

SE, XLE and XSE cars use a smart-key fob instead, listed as the HYQ14FBN, which runs on the NXP Hitag-AES 4A system. Both setups have a mechanical backup key, so there is always a physical way into the door if the electronics fail.

Base trims: flip key with an H-chip transponder
SE, XLE, XSE: smart-key fob on the Hitag-AES 4A system
Both: a mechanical backup key exists

What usually goes wrong with these keys?

The problems we see listed for this year are predictable. On flip keys, the hinge breaks or the shell wears out after years of being flipped in and out of a pocket. The chip inside is often still fine, and in that case the key can sometimes be moved into a fresh shell rather than replaced outright.

Fob batteries die on both types. On the smart-key trims, a dead fob battery is the usual cause of a 'key not detected' message. Before assuming the fob is broken, it is worth replacing the battery and using the mechanical backup key to get in.

Spare key or all keys lost: what changes?

If you still have one working key, you are in the easier situation. For this setup, duplicating a key needs the original in hand. We cut the blade where needed and program the new key through the car's OBD port. Adding a key when you have a working fob is less restricted than starting from nothing.

If every key is gone, replacement is still possible. It is more involved. The car has to be programmed without an existing key to copy from. On 2020 and newer smart-key cars, jobs in the US generally require Toyota server codes, and that access runs through locksmith-credentialed NASTF systems. Programming on this car is flagged as needing NASTF SDRM, so the work is not something a casual operator can do with a handheld tool.

This is also where it pays to check credentials. California requires locksmith companies to hold a BSIS LCO license, and you should ask any locksmith for it before they start.

Call (213) 577-1366 and tell us the trim, or read us the VIN from the dash or door jamb.
We confirm whether your car has the flip key or the smart fob.
We tell you whether we need your existing key, and what proof of ownership we will ask for.
We cut the blade as needed, program the new key via OBD, and test every function.
If a spare is useful, we program it in the same visit.

Locked out or need a locksmith now?

We answer around the clock, every day of the year.

Call (213) 577-1366

What affects the cost of a 2020 Corolla key?

We don't quote numbers on a web page because the real answer depends on your car. These are the factors that move the cost:

Flip key or smart fob: the parts are different, and so is the programming.
Whether you have a working key or all keys are lost, since all-keys-lost work takes more steps and secured access.
Whether the existing key just needs a new shell or battery, which is often the lighter-cost option.
Whether you need a spare cut and programmed during the same visit.
Where the car is: our mobile vans come to you, or you can bring the car to our Westwood storefront.

What we confirm by VIN before we promise anything

Trim confusion is the one genuine uncertainty on this year. The parts listings we rely on cover the flip key and the smart fob, but a used car may have had a key swapped or replaced over the years. So we confirm by VIN and in person before ordering or cutting anything.

We would rather tell you up front that we need to look at the car than guess and cut the wrong key.

Wilshire Lock & Key has been in business since 1987, with a storefront at 10740 Wilshire Blvd in Westwood and mobile vans. Calls go to one company, not a dispatch middleman, and David oversees the work. For the wider picture, see our Corolla key pages, our Toyota key service, or our car key overview. You can also use the contact page.

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2020 Corolla have a push-to-start button?

It depends on the trim. Base trims use a flip key, with no push-to-start. SE, XLE and XSE cars use the smart-key fob. If you are unsure which you have, give us the VIN and we will confirm.

Can you make a 2020 Corolla key if I lost all of them?

Yes, all-keys-lost replacement is possible for this car. On smart-key cars it generally requires Toyota server codes through locksmith-credentialed access, so it involves more steps than adding a spare.

Do I need my original key to make a copy?

For this setup, duplication needs the original key. If you have a working key, bring it. If not, we move to the all-keys-lost process.

Is the key chip in a 2020 Corolla flip key verified?

Yes. The flip key uses an H-family chip (128-bit DST-AES), verified against parts sources. The smart-key trims use a different system, and we confirm which one your car has by VIN.

My smart fob says 'key not detected'. Is it broken?

Often it is just a dead battery in the fob. Replace the battery first, and use the mechanical backup key for the door if needed. If the message continues, the fob may need testing or reprogramming.

Can a broken flip key be repaired instead of replaced?

Sometimes. Broken hinges and worn shells are common, and if the chip inside still works, it can often be moved into a new shell. We check the chip before recommending anything.

How do I know a locksmith is legitimate?

California requires locksmith companies to hold a BSIS LCO license. Ask any locksmith for it before they begin work.

We cover all these cities

Reviewed by David, Owner & Lead Technician, Wilshire Lock & Key — in the locksmith trade since 1987.

Last updated 2026-10-11.