2020 Toyota Highlander Key Replacement in Los Angeles

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

2020 Toyota Highlander: key facts

Key type: Smart / proximity key
Push-to-start: Yes
Transponder chip: 8A-AA (128-bit DST-AES smart)
Programming: OBD
All keys lost: We can originate new keys on site

New XU70: smart key with push-button start across the lineup (8A-AA fob type). 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 the 2020 Highlander use?

The 2020 model year is the start of the XU70 Highlander, and Toyota built it with a smart proximity key and push-button start across the lineup. There is no turn-the-key ignition on this year. The fob stays in your pocket or bag, and the car reads it when you unlock the doors and press the start button.

Inside the fob is an 8A-AA chip, which is a 128-bit DST-AES smart-key type. That detail matters because it is not the older style of chip that a basic key machine can copy. The fob has to be programmed to your vehicle electronically. A mechanical backup key is also part of the setup, so you are not locked out of the door if the fob stops responding.

For an owner, this comes down to three practical things:

A bladed key cut at a hardware store will not start this car. The fob must be programmed.
Programming on this year is done through the OBD port, the diagnostic connector under the dash.
Replacing a lost fob costs more than replacing an older bladed key, which is worth knowing before you put off getting a spare.

Spare fob or all keys lost: what is the difference?

These are two different jobs on a 2020 Highlander, and the second one is more involved.

Adding a key while you still have a working fob is the less restricted route. Duplication on this vehicle needs an original key present, and the new fob is programmed alongside it. If you have one fob and want a second, doing it now is usually the more economical route compared with waiting until you have none.

All keys lost is still possible, but it takes more. On 2020 and newer smart-key Toyotas, these jobs in the US generally require Toyota server codes, and that means access through locksmith-credentialed channels. The programming also needs NASTF SDRM-level registration on the data side. In plain terms: the car will not accept a new fob just because someone has the hardware. The security data has to be retrieved properly for your vehicle.

You call (213) 577-1366 and give us the year, model and VIN, and tell us whether you have any working fob.
We confirm which path applies: add-a-key from a working fob, or all keys lost.
We tell you what the job involves and what affects the cost before work starts.
The new fob is programmed through the OBD port, and we test every function, including locking, unlocking and push-button start.
If you want a spare while we are there, that is the easiest time to do it.

Locked out or need a locksmith now?

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

Call (213) 577-1366

What affects the price of a Highlander smart key?

We won't quote a number for a car we haven't identified, but here is what moves the cost on this year:

Spare versus all keys lost. With a working fob in hand, the job is simpler. Without one, the data and access steps add work.
Number of fobs. Programming two at once is usually more efficient than coming back later for a second.
Condition of the fob. A fob damaged by water may not be worth saving, and a fob that only needs a battery costs far less than a new one.
Location. If the Highlander is stuck somewhere, a mobile van visit differs from you bringing the car to our Westwood storefront at 10740 Wilshire Blvd.
Time of day. We answer the phone around the clock, and after-hours work can be priced differently.

What we confirm by VIN or in person

Our data on this year is solid on the key type, the 8A-AA chip family and the OBD programming method. The part that varies is the all-keys-lost path. The general rule for 2020+ smart-key Toyotas is that server codes through credentialed access are required, but "generally" is the honest word. We confirm the details against your VIN and the actual car before we commit to a plan.

If your particular Highlander turns out to need something we can't do on site, we'll say so plainly rather than start and stall. Also ask any locksmith for their California BSIS LCO license, since the state requires locksmith companies to hold one. Seeing it is a fair request for a job on your car's security system.

Why call Wilshire Lock & Key?

We have been in business since 1987, with a storefront in Westwood and mobile service vans, and we serve 140 cities across Los Angeles and Ventura counties. When you call, you reach our company, not a dispatch middleman who hands the job to whoever is available. David, the owner and lead technician, oversees the work.

Common Highlander complaints are simple: a fob that says "key not detected," a lost fob, or a fob that went through the wash. If it is a dead battery, we will tell you that before suggesting a replacement. For more on the model, see our Toyota Highlander key page, the wider Toyota key guide, or the full car key service overview. You can also contact us with your VIN ahead of time.

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2020 Highlander have a push-button start?

Yes. The 2020 Highlander uses a smart proximity key with push-button start across the lineup. The fob only needs to be inside the car, so there is no key to turn in an ignition.

My Highlander says key not detected. Do I need a new fob?

Not necessarily. A weak fob battery is a common cause of that message on this setup, so we check that first. A water-damaged fob is another known cause, and that is when replacement becomes likely.

Can you copy my 2020 Highlander key?

Duplication needs an original working key present, and the new fob has to be programmed to the vehicle through the OBD port. It is not a simple cut-and-copy job.

Can I get a new key if I lost every fob?

Yes, an all-keys-lost job is possible on this year, but it is more involved. It generally requires Toyota server codes through locksmith-credentialed access, and we confirm the exact path by VIN before starting.

Why is a Highlander fob more expensive than an older Toyota key?

It contains a 128-bit smart chip and has to be programmed electronically, rather than just cut. That is the reason replacing a lost fob costs more than replacing an older bladed key.

Does the fob have a hidden mechanical key?

Yes, a mechanical backup key is part of this setup, which helps if the fob battery dies and the doors need opening.

Do I have to tow the car to you?

Not always. We have mobile service vans as well as our storefront at 10740 Wilshire Blvd in Westwood. Call (213) 577-1366 and we will tell you whether mobile service makes sense for your situation.

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.