2016 Toyota Prius Key Replacement

The 2016–2022 Prius uses the same key setup, so everything on this page applies to those years too. The full picture is on the Toyota Prius key guide.

2016 Toyota Prius: key facts

Key type: Smart / proximity key
Push-to-start: Yes
Transponder chip: 8A-A9 (128-bit DST-AES smart)
Programming: OBD
All keys lost: We can originate new keys on site

What kind of key does a 2016 Prius use?

The 2016 Prius is a push-to-start car. The key is a smart proximity fob: the car senses it nearby, unlocks the doors, and lets you start the hybrid system with the button. The chip inside belongs to the 8A-A9 family, a 128-bit DST-AES smart design. That encryption is why a hardware-store copy will not work. A blank that fits the lock is not enough, because the car has to recognize the fob electronically.

There is also a mechanical backup key. It slides out of the fob and opens the driver's door if the fob battery is dead or the car does not respond. Keep it somewhere you can reach it. Many owners never pull it out until the day they need it.

If you want background on the model line, our Toyota Prius key page covers the range, and the Toyota key overview covers the brand.

Duplicate or all keys lost: how does it differ for this Prius?

For this setup, copying a key normally starts with an original key. If you still have one working fob, adding another is the simpler job. We program the new fob to the car through the OBD port, the diagnostic connector under the dash. No factory-only credential is needed for this programming method, so it can often be done where the car sits.

All keys lost is also possible on this year. It takes more work because there is no working fob to start from, but it is not a dead end. You do not need to tow the car to a dealer just to begin.

You call (213) 577-1366 and give us the year, model, and where the car is parked.
We confirm the car's details by VIN and check that you are the owner.
If the doors are locked and no fob works, we get you into the car first.
We prepare a new smart fob and program it through the OBD port.
We test that the doors, push-button start, and backup key all work before we leave.

What affects the price of a 2016 Prius key?

A smart fob costs more than the older bladed keys many owners remember. That is the most common surprise. Beyond that, the final cost depends on a handful of things we can explain on the phone, without quoting a number before we know your situation.

Whether you have a working original fob or all keys are lost, since the second takes more labor.
How many fobs you need programmed, because a spare added in the same visit is usually the more economical route.
The fob itself, and whether it is a new part or a quality aftermarket unit.
Where the car is, and whether we come to you or you bring it to our Westwood storefront.
Time of day. Late-night and holiday calls take us off a normal schedule.
Whether the old fob is water-damaged or cracked, which changes what can be reused.

Locked out or need a locksmith now?

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

Call (213) 577-1366

Common problems, and what we confirm by VIN

The failures we hear about on this year are consistent. A weak fob battery triggers a "key not detected" message even though the fob is in your pocket. Try a fresh battery first, and hold the fob against the start button as a quick test. Water damage is the other one: a fob that went through the wash or a swimming pool often stops working, and replacement is usually the answer.

The chip data for this year is verified, so we are not guessing about the fob type. Even so, we confirm everything by VIN and in person before ordering or programming anything. Trim and production-date differences can matter, and we would rather check than hand you a fob that does not fit your car.

Why call Wilshire Lock & Key

We have been in business since 1987, with a storefront at 10740 Wilshire Blvd in Westwood and mobile vans that serve 140 cities across Los Angeles and Ventura counties. You reach one company, not a dispatch service passing your call along. David oversees the work. The phone is answered 24 hours a day at (213) 577-1366, or you can use our contact page. More about us is on the home page.

Frequently asked questions

Can you make a key for a 2016 Prius if I lost every fob?

Yes. All keys lost is possible for this year. The process takes longer than adding a spare, and we confirm your car's details by VIN first.

Does a 2016 Prius need a dealer to program a new key?

Not for the programming itself. The method is through the OBD port, and no special factory-only registry credential is required for it. We can usually do it at your location.

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

Not always. A weak battery is the most common cause. Try a fresh battery, and use the backup key to open the door if needed. If that does not fix it, the fob may be damaged.

Is there a physical key in the Prius fob?

Yes. A mechanical backup key is built into the fob. It opens the driver's door when the fob battery is dead.

Is a spare cheaper than replacing after losing everything?

Usually yes. Copying from a working original is simpler than an all-keys-lost job, so adding a spare early is generally the more economical route.

Will you come to me, or do I bring the car in?

Either works. Our mobile vans come to you, or you can visit our storefront at 10740 Wilshire Blvd in Westwood. Call (213) 577-1366 to decide which makes sense.

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.