How we help
Replace a lost or damaged car key, or get a spare before you need one. Share the year, make and model so we can identify the right key and programming requirements.
Common situations
- Lost the only car key
- Spare key needed for a second driver
- Worn key blade no longer turning
- Bought a used car with just one key
What the service includes
- 01Ownership is confirmed with your registration or title and ID, and the VIN is used to look up the key and transponder type.
- 02If no working key exists, the door or ignition lock is decoded, or the key code is used, to cut a new key.
- 03The key is cut on a code machine, including laser-cut (sidewinder) keys.
- 04The transponder chip or smart key is programmed to the car's immobilizer through the OBD-II port.
- 05The key is tested to start the car and operate the locks, and lost keys are erased from the car's memory where the vehicle allows it.
Typical time: 30-60 minutes on site
Options
- Transponder key
- Cut to code and chip programmed to the immobilizer.
- Laser-cut (sidewinder) key
- Cut on a special machine, then programmed.
- Remote head key
- Key and lock buttons in one, cut and programmed.
- Smart key or proximity fob
- Push-to-start key with an emergency blade cut to the door.
Keys we cut and program
Compatibility and limits
- Some newer vehicles, particularly certain European makes, can only be programmed by the dealer.
- Some vehicles need a manufacturer security PIN obtained with proof of ownership.
- A metal-only copy may open doors but will not start most modern cars.
Can a locksmith make a car key without the original?
Read the answer
Yes, in most cases. The locksmith can decode the door lock with a two-in-one pick tool, which reads the wafer positions, then cut a key by code. Some vehicles allow the key code to be obtained from the manufacturer with proof of ownership.
After cutting, the transponder or smart key is programmed through the OBD-II port. Some vehicles require a security PIN, which can be obtained from the manufacturer by authorized locksmiths.
Some newer vehicles, particularly from certain European manufacturers, can only be programmed by the dealer. A locksmith should tell you up front if your car falls into that group.
What kinds of car keys are there?
Read the answer
Older cars use simple metal keys. Most cars since the late 1990s use transponder keys, with a chip that the immobilizer must recognize before the engine starts.
Laser-cut or sidewinder keys have a groove cut into the side of the blade and require special cutting machines. Remote head keys combine the key and the lock buttons. Smart keys stay in your pocket and allow push-button start.
Knowing your key type helps you understand the price and whether a locksmith can make it at the car.
Common questions
What documents do I need for a car key replacement?
Usually ID and vehicle registration or title in your name. The locksmith also needs the VIN, which is visible on the dashboard.
Can a key be made for a car with all keys lost?
Yes, for most vehicles. The lock is decoded or the key code is used, then a new key is cut and programmed at the car.
Will a copied key from a hardware store start my car?
Only if the transponder chip is programmed. A metal copy may open the doors but will not start most modern cars.
Can a key I bought online be programmed?
Sometimes. Many aftermarket keys work, but some are poor quality or the wrong frequency. Have it checked before programming.
Can a lost key be removed from my car's memory?
On many vehicles, yes. This prevents a lost or stolen key from starting the car.
Is a locksmith key as good as a dealer key?
A quality aftermarket or OEM key programmed correctly works the same. Ask which type you are getting.