Losing or damaging your 2020 Rav4 Key Fob can be a frustrating experience. You might be facing unexpected costs and uncertainty about the best way to get a replacement. While it’s true that obtaining a new 2020 RAV4 key fob and getting it programmed will require an investment, understanding your options can help you navigate the process efficiently and potentially save money. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to replace your 2020 RAV4 key fob and get back on the road.
The first step is to identify the correct key fob for your specific 2020 RAV4 model. Toyota RAV4 vehicles can have different types of key fobs depending on the trim and features. The most reliable way to ensure you are ordering the right replacement is to use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
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Utilize the Toyota Parts Website: Visit the official parts.toyota.com website. This is the most accurate method. Enter your VIN into their parts search tool. This will allow you to identify the precise key fob designed for your 2020 RAV4.
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Check Your Existing Key Fob (If Possible): If you have a spare key or fragments of your old key fob, look for a part number directly on the fob itself. This number can also be used to find a compatible replacement.
Once you have identified the correct part number, you have several options for sourcing a new 2020 RAV4 key fob:
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OEM Toyota Parts Dealers Online: Search online for “OEM Toyota Parts”. You will find various websites that sell genuine Toyota parts. Some of these are online portals for actual Toyota dealerships, while others are third-party sellers. To verify legitimacy, check the “Contact Us” information on the website for a physical address and phone number that aligns with a known Toyota dealership. Consider contacting your local dealership to see if they will match online OEM dealer pricing.
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Your Local Toyota Dealership: Contact your local Toyota dealership directly. While potentially pricier upfront, dealerships guarantee you are getting a genuine OEM 2020 RAV4 key fob and can handle the programming. Inquire about their pricing for the key fob, key cutting (if necessary), and programming services.
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Costco Auto Program: If you are a Costco member, explore the Costco Auto Program Services. They sometimes offer services related to vehicle accessories, which might include key fob replacement or referrals to trusted providers.
After obtaining a new 2020 RAV4 key fob, programming is essential for it to work with your vehicle. You have two primary options for programming:
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Auto Locksmiths: Search online for “Auto Locksmith [your zipcode]”. Reputable auto locksmiths often offer key fob programming services at competitive prices compared to dealerships. Services like Yelp can help you find local locksmiths and read reviews. When contacting a locksmith, specifically ask about the cost for:
- New key fob programming: To sync the new fob with your 2020 RAV4’s immobilizer system.
- Key cutting (if applicable): If your 2020 RAV4 requires a physical key blade in addition to the fob.
- Deleting the lost key fob: Crucial for security, ensuring the lost key fob can no longer access or start your vehicle. Confirm they can delete the lost fob from your car’s system.
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Toyota Dealership: Dealerships are fully equipped to program new key fobs and delete old ones. Get a price quote from your local Toyota dealer for programming, key cutting (if needed), and lost key deletion to compare with locksmith quotes. This will help you determine if an auto locksmith offers a more cost-effective solution.
You might encounter options for used key fobs. While potentially cheaper to purchase, used fobs are generally not recommended. Programming used key fobs can be complex and sometimes unreliable. The small savings on the part itself might be outweighed by potential programming difficulties and the risk of the used fob not functioning correctly in the long run. Dealer-level programming is typically required for any key fob, new or used.
Finally, consider online retailers like Car Keys Express. They specialize in replacement car keys and keyless entry remotes and may offer new 2020 RAV4 key fobs. If considering this option, verify that the key fobs they sell are new and inquire about programming options they offer or recommend.
Replacing a 2020 RAV4 key fob requires careful identification of the correct part, sourcing a new fob from a reputable provider, and professional programming. By understanding your options and comparing costs from dealerships and auto locksmiths, you can make an informed decision and get your replacement 2020 RAV4 key fob efficiently. Start by identifying your key fob part number using your VIN and then explore the best options for purchasing and programming in your area.
