Lost car key or fob

What has probably happened

• The key is genuinely lost, and there is no spare.
• The fob has stopped working and a battery has not fixed it.
• The key is worn and no longer turns reliably.
• You want a spare before you need one, which is the cheap time to do it.
• The key was stolen, in which case the old one needs disabling, not just replacing.

What the technician does

• The key cut to the car, by code where the lock needs it.
• Transponder and fob programmed to the vehicle on site.
• Old keys deleted from the car's memory where the key was stolen — replacing without deleting leaves the thief a working key.
• Push-to-start and proximity fobs where the car uses them.
• Proof of ownership checked before any key is made, every time.

Questions people ask

Is a locksmith cheaper than the dealer?

Usually, and you avoid towing a car that cannot be driven to them. What it costs depends entirely on the make and the type of key, which is why the price comes after they see the car.

Do I need the car present?

Yes. Programming talks to the car itself, so the key has to be made where the vehicle is.

Can they make a key with no original at all?

In most cases, from the vehicle identification number and proof you own it. That is exactly why the proof is asked for.