Last Updated on March 15, 2024
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Losing your car keys can be stressful, especially when you don’t have a spare on hand. Not only are you left stranded, but replacing the key can be an expensive and time-consuming process. Fortunately, there are several options available to get a replacement, even if you don’t have the original. Let’s discuss the different methods of obtaining a new key, review the associated costs, and answer some of those frequently asked questions.
One of the most straightforward ways to get a replacement key is through your car’s dealership. Dealers have access to your vehicle’s key code, which is necessary to cut a new key. However, this convenience comes at a cost, as they typically charge higher prices.
Car locksmiths are another popular choice. They get a key made by extracting the key code from your vehicle’s computer system or obtaining it from the manufacturer. A professional locksmith will typically offer mobile services, making the process more convenient.
Some hardware stores and specialized key cutting services craft copies without the original, provided they have access to key codes or VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).
Several online companies will replace your missing key by mail. You just have to provide them with your vehicle information. This is a convenient option for those living in remote areas or unable to visit a local service.
What you pay will be determined by whether or not you need a basic car key, a smart key, or a transponder key. Buying a basic copy for older models can be as low as $25, but newer models can reach $200 or more. Transponder and smart keys can be even more expensive depending on the year and make. Some reach $500!
In general, expect to pay more if you go through a car dealership. The charge for an auto locksmith varies, but is generally less expensive depending on factors like the locksmith’s location. Key cutting services are relatively inexpensive too, depending on the complexity of the key and programming needed, and the same is true of online key replacement services .
The cost and complexity of obtaining a car key replacement depends on your vehicle’s make, model, and key system. Newer vehicles with advanced systems, such as keyless entry, push-button start, and smart keys in general, require additional programming and specialized equipment. The more specialized, the higher the cost.
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Most service providers will require proof of ownership before replacing your car key. This may include a valid driver’s license, vehicle registration, or other documentation to ensure you are the rightful owner of the vehicle.
In addition to cutting the physical key, some vehicles require programming or coding to sync the new key with the vehicle’s computer system. This process adds to the overall cost and could require specialized services from a dealer or automotive locksmith.
Traditional metal keys are generally less expensive to replace than more advanced key fobs or transponder keys. Those with integrated remote entry or ignition systems can be more costly due to the additional electronics and programming required.
If you’re buying a vehicle from an auction, know that not all vehicles come with keys. In some cases, an automobile may have been forfeited, even seized. If a fleet vehicle like a service truck gets retired and was only operated via a fleet key, then you will need a replacement in this case too.
No, AutoZone and most retail stores cannot create a new key without the original. They can duplicate existing keys but cannot program or code new keys for your vehicle.
If you lose your only car key, you’ll need to obtain a replacement key from a dealer, automotive locksmith, or key cutting service. They can create a new key using your vehicle’s key code or VIN.
Certain key cutting services or locksmiths are able to obtain your vehicle’s key code using the VIN. However, this does not work for all makes and models.
Before deciding on a service provider, research and compare costs from multiple sources, including dealerships, locksmiths, and other key cutting services. This will help you find the most cost-effective option.
If available in your area, consider using a professional locksmith who is mobile. They come to your location, saving you time and hassle.
When requesting a replacement key, provide accurate information about your vehicle’s make, model, year, and any other related details about the key system. This will help ensure you receive the correct key.
Some service providers offer warranties or guarantees on their key replacement services. Inquire about these to ensure you’re covered in case of any issues.
Once you’ve obtained a replacement key, consider making a spare and keeping it in a secure location. This will save you time and money in the future if you ever lose your keys again.
Here are some additional details on getting replacement keys made for popular vehicle makes like Ford, Chevy, Dodge, and BMW:
Many newer Ford models use keys with electronic components that require programming from a dealership or an auto locksmith. On the other hand, older replacements are easier if they only use a basic metal key. Locksmiths and key cutting services make copies based on the key code obtained from Ford using the vehicle’s 8-digit key code sequence.
For Chevy and other GM vehicles, the dealership route is often recommended, especially for newer models with anti-theft keys and fobs. The dealer can cut and program the new key using the vehicle’s unique ID code.
Some automotive locksmiths also handle Chevy key replacements if they can access the vehicle’s ID code. Though, key copying services may be limited to just cutting a blank if programming is required.
For Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, and other FCA/Stellantis brands, the key replacement process depends on whether you need a basic or smart key. Newer Dodges use coded chips that usually require a trip to the dealer or an automotive locksmith capable of cloning and programming the new copies. Older Dodges with standard keys can be completed through a third-party.
BMWs are renowned for advanced key fob systems that make replacement more complicated, and more expensive. Most owners opt to go through the dealership to get a new key coded and programmed properly. Some specialty locksmiths can handle BMW key replacements, but this requires expensive equipment to clone the key’s transponder and sync it with the vehicle systems. This specialized service typically costs almost as much as the dealer route.
Losing your car keys can be a frustrating experience, but there are several options available to replace it even without the original. Whether you choose to go through a dealership, an automotive locksmith, a key cutting service, or an online replacement service, be sure to consider factors such as cost, vehicle type, and key complexity. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can navigate the process of getting a car key replacement smoothly and efficiently.
If you’re in the market not just for replacing keys but for finding affordable and retired vehicles like police cars, school buses, and more, then be sure to check out Municibid’s automotive surplus.
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Today’s key fobs do more than unlock and start a vehicle. They double as convenience devices and a significant theft deterrent. But key fob replacement is an issue.
All that complexity makes them expensive to replace if you lose or break your car’s key fob. The days of getting a new key cut by a corner locksmith are long gone. In some cases, the only way to replace a car key is to visit a dealership and shell out hundreds of dollars.
Your car insurance may cover the fob replacement, though going this route counts against your deductible. Replacing the key may not be a great plan if the automaker charges $400 for a new key fob and you have a $500 insurance deductible.
In this article, we’ll tackle the following challenges of key fob replacement.
There are several different types of car keys. Older keys — those usually from the mid-1990s or before — are simple to replace. Anything newer than that will require a little more effort.
Like the key that opens your home or a padlock, the keys that started cars built for the better part of a century are plain cut metal. Newer cars may have a chip embedded in the plastic key head that talks to a transponder located in the instrument column, but even these are relatively simple for a locksmith to program in many cases.
A Key With a Remote Fob
Keyless entry became commonplace in the late 1990s. These systems can unlock or lock the car, and maybe even arm an alarm at the tap of a button. However, the key needs to be inserted into the ignition to start the vehicle. Sometimes, the metal key and the remote are a single switchblade-style unit. Most of today’s new models have moved on from this key fob type and utilize keyless ignition.
You’ve probably seen these fobs by now because nearly every new model uses a remote device enabling push-button ignition instead of a traditional metal key. Although these fobs look like they are missing a key, they have one integrated. Some of these are pretty attractive, such as a leather-wrapped fob that comes with some Volvo models.
Single key fobs are generally standard equipment when buying a vehicle. However, Tesla charges $175 for a fob for its cars. The electric carmaker charges for the fob — in the shape of a Tesla — since it offers a smartphone digital key and smart key card, which will work and unlock your vehicle if your smartphone is out of battery.
The single key fob can be kept in a pocket or bag for both access and starting in most cases.
Key fobs do more than just lock and unlock your car. They serve very useful purposes, like rolling down your windows or even summoning and auto-parking your car. While you won’t find these features on every key fob, many newer cars are adding additional features to their fobs.
Car manufacturers have come a long way from windows where drivers manually rolled them down. These days, newer cars like the Volkswagen Tiguan allow you to roll down the windows by simply holding down a button. However, you’ll need to roll them up on your own. Also, don’t leave the windows down too long, or you might allow some unwanted bugs inside your car.
For minivans, key fobs remotely open the sliding side doors for easy access.
[Editor’s Note: I often use the feature to open the doors and liftgate remotely on hot days to let scorching heat out of my Chrysler Pacifica as I approach the van. — Chris Hardesty, senior advice editor.]
One of the coolest features that some car key fobs offer now is the ability to summon your car with the press of a button. This feature is offered in vehicles like the Genesis GV60, Hyundai Sonata, and Kia EV6. These cars do not come and find you like Tesla’s summon feature, but if the car is parked in a tight spot, you can hold the button and it will pull or back out of the spot and stop wherever you want it to.
Just as you can pull the car out of the spot, you can park the car from the key fob, too. If the space is tight and you don’t think you will be able to open the car door, you can hop out and make the car park itself. Every car with a fob doesn’t do this, but this high-tech feature is becoming more common.
There’s no simple answer, but few modern key fobs are inexpensive. Even basic remotes may require special programming with computer software only accessible by a dealership.
Though the repair won’t take more than a few minutes to replace, this can get expensive.
Kelley Blue Book contacted dealerships across the country for replacement costs of key fobs for some popular and high-end models. Quotes we got for replacing key fobs for a 2020 Subaru Forester with a push-button start ranged from about $200 to $400. A 2020 Toyota Sienna fob was about the same. However, dealers quoted as little as $150 to replace a 2017 Honda Accord key fob.
The more advanced security features embedded in the fob for a 2023 X7 justify the roughly $500 they charge to replace and program one. If you think that’s a lot, consider that the crystal fob Aston Martin included with some of its models might cost $2,000 to replace and reprogram.
The best place to get a high-quality key fob guaranteed to work with your vehicle is from an authorized dealership service center. Aftermarket key fobs exist, but they may not be of the same quality as the originals. In general, using OEM replacement parts is preferred to help retain your car’s value when it’s time to sell your vehicle or trade for a new automobile.
Every dealer we surveyed said they wouldn’t program a key fob unless you visit the parts department and show proof of ownership or registration.
This level of security is an asset since it means a would-be thief can’t write down your vehicle identification number (VIN) and get a new key fob programmed at a dealer.
Some locksmiths may program specific keys, though they will likely need a second, functioning fob to do so. Online sites advertising programmed remotes shipped to your door may not be reputable unless they ask for ownership verification, so shop wisely.
Automakers make it reasonably easy to swap in a new battery, though you may need to use a small screwdriver to pry the key fob open.
Generally, these coin-shaped batteries cost $10 or less, though some fobs require two batteries. Battery specialist shops and dealers will often replace the battery for free since it only takes a moment or two. If you’re handy, you can save time by buying a battery at a hardware store, a big-box retailer, or online, and then swap it yourself. Your owner’s manual — which is often available in PDF form on the automaker’s website if you’ve lost it — or online videos explain how to replace a key fob battery.
And if you’re in doubt, YouTube is full of videos from users explaining how to replace a key fob battery.
TIP: Keep an extra battery in your glove box or center console along with whatever tool is needed to pry it open for emergencies. Some cars will alert you to a key fob battery that needs replacement, though.
In rare instances, a new battery may still leave you with a non-functional fob.
If you have a second key fob, try using it to unlock the vehicle and then swap batteries between the two. If it’s still not working, the fob might need reprogramming by a dealer, which can be done at a lower cost than replacement. However, you will need to replace the key fob if its internal transmitter is faulty.
If your car offers keyless access and engine start, you can still access your vehicle with a dead fob. You can release a physical key found inside the fob (consult your owner’s manual). In some cases, you can also open the trunk or liftgate.
You can also hold the key fob up to the start and stop button (or another location in the car) to start the vehicle. Again, your owner’s manual will contain vehicle-specific information about where to hold the key fob.
Editor’s Note: This article has been updated since its initial publication.
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