Replacement car key costs range from $50 to $500 depending on the key type, your car's year and make, and where you get it made
A basic metal key blank costs $10 to $30 and takes 10 minutes at a hardware store or locksmith. A key fob — the plastic remote that locks and unlocks your car — runs $100 to $300 if you buy it from a dealership, or $50 to $150 from an independent locksmith. Newer cars with push-button start systems or smart keys that don't need to be inserted can cost $200 to $500 from a dealership because they require programming to your specific vehicle.
The price also depends on whether you need just the physical key or the programming that makes it work with your car's computer. A dealership will charge more than a locksmith for the same key, but a dealership can usually program it on the spot. An independent locksmith may be cheaper but might not have the equipment to program newer smart keys, which means you could end up paying a locksmith to cut the key and then a dealership to program it.
Key Takeaways
- A straightforward metal key from a hardware store or locksmith costs $10 to $30 and works for older cars without electronic locks.
- A key fob with remote locking costs $50 to $150 from a locksmith or $100 to $300 from a dealership.
- Smart keys and push-button start keys cost $200 to $500 because they require computer programming specific to your vehicle.
- Dealerships charge more than locksmiths but can usually program keys when ready, while locksmiths may be cheaper but lack programming equipment for newer cars.
- Your car's age and model matter most — older vehicles with straightforward keys are much cheaper to replace than new cars with electronic systems.
Basic metal keys versus electronic key fobs
A basic metal key is a flat piece of cut metal with no electronics. It works only on older cars or on the trunk and door locks of newer cars that still have manual locks. You can get one made at any hardware store, locksmith, or even some car dealerships in about 10 minutes. The cost is usually $10 to $30.
A key fob is a plastic remote with buttons that send a wireless signal to your car's lock system. It lets you lock and unlock the car from a distance. Fobs cost more because they contain a circuit board, battery, and transmitter. A locksmith will charge $50 to $150 to make one, while a dealership typically charges $100 to $300. The price difference reflects the dealership's ability to program it to your car when ready, whereas a locksmith might need to order the fob blank and program it later.
If your car is older and still uses a basic key, you do not need to go to a dealership — any locksmith can make a replacement. If your car has a fob, a locksmith is usually cheaper, but confirm they can program it before you pay.
Smart keys and push-button start systems
Cars made in the last 10 years often use smart keys or proximity keys that do not need to be inserted into the ignition. You keep the key in your pocket or bag, and the car unlocks and starts when you press a button on the door or dashboard. These keys contain more complex electronics and must be programmed to your specific vehicle's computer system.
A smart key from a dealership costs $200 to $500, depending on the make and model. Some dealerships charge an additional programming fee of $50 to $100 on top of the key cost. Independent locksmiths rarely have the equipment to program smart keys, so you will almost always need to go to a dealership for this type of replacement. A few high-end locksmiths in major cities have invested in the programming equipment, but they are uncommon.
If you lose a smart key, call your dealership first to get an accurate quote for your specific car. Prices vary widely — a smart key for a Honda might cost $250, while the same type of key for a luxury brand could cost $400 or more.
Where to get a replacement key made
Hardware stores like Home Depot and Lowe's can cut basic metal keys on the spot for $10 to $25. They cannot make fobs or smart keys, and they cannot program anything. This is the fastest and cheapest option if you have an older car or just need a spare basic key.
Independent locksmiths can cut basic keys and many can make and program key fobs. They are usually cheaper than dealerships — expect $50 to $150 for a fob. Call ahead and ask whether they can program the specific type of key your car uses. Some locksmiths advertise mobile service and will come to your home or workplace.
Car dealerships can make any type of key for your car, including smart keys, and they can program everything on site. They are the most expensive option but the most reliable if you have a newer vehicle. Dealerships also keep records of your vehicle, so they can verify ownership before making a key. If you cannot find an independent locksmith who can program your key, the dealership is your only option.
Online key retailers sell key blanks and fobs that you can have cut and programmed by a local locksmith. This is rarely cheaper than going directly to a locksmith, and it adds an extra step. Avoid this route unless a locksmith specifically recommends a retailer they work with.
How to estimate the cost for your specific car
The year, make, and model of your car determine the key type and therefore the price. A 2005 Honda Civic with a basic key fob will cost less to replace than a 2020 Honda Civic with a smart key. Luxury brands like BMW, Mercedes, and Audi charge more for smart keys than mainstream brands.
To get an accurate quote, call your car's dealership and tell them your vehicle's year, make, model, and trim level. Ask for the price of a replacement key and whether that includes programming. Then call one or two independent locksmiths in your area and ask the same question. Compare the quotes and decide whether the dealership's convenience is worth the extra cost.
If you are buying a used car, ask the seller how many keys come with it. If only one key is included, budget $100 to $300 to have a spare made when ready. Losing your only key for a newer car can be expensive and inconvenient.
What to do if you lose your only key
If you have lost your only key and cannot get into your car, you have three options: call a locksmith, call your dealership, or call roadside information if you have it through your insurance or a membership like AAA.
A locksmith can usually arrive within an hour in urban areas and will charge a service call fee of $50 to $100 plus the cost of the key itself. They can open your car and make a new key on the spot. A dealership will take longer — you may need to tow the car to them — but they can verify your ownership and make any type of key. Roadside information will send a locksmith to you at no extra cost if you have the service, though you still pay for the key.
Keep a spare key in a safe place at home, not in your car or wallet. If you have a newer car with a smart key, consider having the dealership make a basic metal key as a backup — it costs less and works if the smart key battery dies or the electronics fail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a car key myself or order one online and program it?
You can order a key blank online, but you cannot program it yourself without special equipment. Most cars made after 2000 require professional programming. You would still need to pay a locksmith or dealership to program it, so ordering online rarely saves money.
Does my car insurance cover the cost of a replacement key?
Most standard car insurance policies do not cover lost or stolen keys. Some comprehensive plans include roadside information, which may cover the locksmith service call but not the key itself. Check your policy or call your insurance company to confirm what is covered.
How long does it take to get a replacement key?
A hardware store can cut a basic key in 10 minutes. A locksmith can usually make a fob in 30 minutes to an hour. A dealership may take a few hours or require an appointment. Smart keys sometimes require ordering from the manufacturer, which can take several days.
What if my dealership is closed and I need a key right now?
Call an independent locksmith — they often work evenings and weekends. If you cannot get into your car, call roadside information or a towing service. A locksmith can open your car and make a temporary key while you wait for the dealership to program a permanent one.
Is it cheaper to buy a used key fob and reprogram it?
Used key fobs from online marketplaces are sometimes cheaper than new ones, but programming a used fob to your car costs the same as programming a new one. You save only the difference in the fob's price, which is usually $20 to $50. The risk is that a used fob may be defective or have a limited lifespan.