Losing a car key can be a nightmare, especially when you’re in an emergency. Car owners often need spare keys, whether due to misplaced keys, theft, or simply for a backup. However, that leads many car owners to wonder: do locksmiths make car keys?
Yes, a trusted car locksmith can make car keys, and they arrive quite fast. A skilled locksmith can craft a replacement key identical to the original—even if the original key itself isn’t available. Let’s figure it out in detail!
Do Locksmiths Make Car Keys?
Yes, locksmiths can make car keys. A lot of people mistakenly believe that locksmiths only work with home and business locks. But, in reality, they also have expertise in handling automotive lock issues with proper tools and equipment. All locksmiths undergo training to make car keys.
So, even if you have an older vehicle with mechanical keys or a newer one with a complex transponder system, they can effectively help you make new car keys. Moreover, as there are many mobile locksmith providers, you can call them at any time of the day and they’ll be right there to assist you.
Types Of Car Keys Locksmiths Make
Getting your car keys duplicated by a locksmith is often both affordable and hassle-free. For a better idea, here are different types of car keys that locksmiths can make:
Mechanically Cut Keys
Most older cars come with simple keys that rely on distinct cuts, ridges, and grooves for operation. Figuring out the right shape and ridges for these keys is quite tricky. Experienced locksmiths can easily duplicate such keys with their specialized tools.
Laser Cut Keys
Many local locksmiths use lasers to cut keys, which nearly match mechanical keys. Most locksmiths have the unique tools to duplicate such keys.
Transponder Keys
Newer models of vehicles include keys with a transponder embedded inside the head. These include tiny electronic chips that send a digital code to the car’s computer system when inserted.
Therefore, duplicating these keys is quite difficult unless you visit the dealer. The good news is, a certified locksmith can make a new key right away, even if it’s a transponder key. They can also program new transponder keys so they are identified by the car.
Key Fob Replacement and Programming
If your vehicle has a keyless entry and ignition system, a locksmith can help you here, too. They replace and program key fobs. As a result, you can use remote locking and unlocking features again!
Broken Key Extraction
Sometimes, your car keys might break and stay inside the lock. In such a case, a locksmith can also extract broken keys from car doors or ignitions. This helps you to get rid of the broken part of the key without damaging the vehicle.
How Do Locksmiths Make Car Keys?
Locksmiths follow a direct but sequential process to make car keys. Depending on the type of key, the steps might vary. Still, these are the fundamental steps a locksmith typically takes to create an exact duplicate of your car key:
Step 1: Ownership Verification
Legal complications can occur if a locksmith fails to check the rightful owner’s documentation. So, the key duplication process starts by them checking the owner’s identity for the right car protection and ensuring whether the vehicle belongs to you.
Step 2: Specifying the Type of Key
Different vehicles require different types of keys. Therefore, the locksmith then decides what type of key your vehicle might require. It helps them to choose from a traditional mechanical key, a transponder key, or a key fob. The price identification ensures that the further procedures are smoother.
Step 3: Acquiring Key Code
Modern vehicles with mechanical keys and transponders require the key code for the locksmith to proceed further. So, they retrieve the key code using the vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). Once they get the code, they can then follow it to cut the new key with an exact measurement.
Step 4: Key Cutting
Once the locksmith has the code, they utilize specialized machinery for the key-cutting step. At this point, they use the specifications derived from the key code and cut the new key accordingly.
However, if you have another spare key, the locksmith might use that to cut the key as well. In this step, they ensure proper precision so you can successfully use the new key to enter your vehicle.
Step 5: Transponder Programming or Key Fob Configuration
As we already said, modern vehicles require programming in the transponder keys. Therefore, the locksmith then programs the newly cut key to connect with your vehicle’s engine control unit (ECU). This way, your vehicle can recognize the key and start the engine.
If you have key fobs with automated programs, they will program the fob to sync with the vehicle’s wireless entry and ignition system. As a result, you can then operate all the remote functions as usual.
Step 7: Testing
Once all the other steps are done, the locksmith will test your new key or fob and ensure it operates smoothly. At this step, he will check the fit in the locks and ignition and confirm that all the electronic components communicate correctly with the car’s systems.
How Much Do Locksmiths Charge To Make Replacement Car Key?
Several factors, such as car type and key type, can affect the cost of making replacement keys. Here is an overview of the typical costs:
| Type of Key/Service | Cost Range | Details |
| Mechanical Key | $50 – $100 | Basic key cutting without electronic components. |
| Transponder Key | $120 – $250 | Includes cutting the key and programming the chip. |
| Key Fob | $150 – $300 | Replacement and programming of electronic key fobs. |
| Laser-Cut Key | $150 – $250 | More intricate cut, usually with a built-in transponder. |
| Smart Key | $220 – $500 | A programmable smart key designed for keyless entry and push-button start. |
| VAT Key | $150 – $300 | Vehicle Anti-Theft System keys require special programming. |
| Flip Key | $125 – $300 | Modern vehicles often come with key fobs that include a built-in flip-out key blade. |
| Car Lockout Service | $60 – $150 (standard)$150 – $250+ (after-hours) | Unlocking service costs more during emergencies/after hours. |
| Rekey Car Ignition | $50 – $150 | Rekeying ignition, depending on vehicle make/model. |
| Rekey Car Door | $30 – $50 per door, while complex locks may range from $50 – $150. | The cost of rekeying car doors depends on the vehicle model and lock system. |
| Change Locks on Car | $50 – $200 per door | Replacing car locks, including parts and labor. |
| Car Key Replacement | $4 – $10 (basic key)$55 – $400 (transponder/smart) | Cost varies widely depending on the key type. |
Bottom Line
Misplacing or breaking your car key isn’t a reason to panic. You can easily hire a Locksmith to get you out of trouble. Now that you know locksmiths can make car keys, you can rely on them for anything from basic mechanical keys to advanced smart keys.
Whether you need a quick duplicate for peace of mind or a complete replacement in an emergency, a reliable locksmith can provide the right solution on the spot.
