Where to get a replacement car key and what it will cost

You have three main places to get a replacement car key: the car dealership, a locksmith, or a big-box retailer like Home Depot or Walmart that has a key-cutting service. The dealership is the most expensive option but guarantees a key that works with your specific vehicle. A locksmith is usually faster and cheaper, especially for older cars. Retail key-cutting services are the cheapest for basic metal keys but cannot program modern keys that have electronic chips.

The cost depends on what kind of key you need. A straightforward metal key without any electronics costs $3 to $10 at a retail service or $15 to $50 at a locksmith. A key fob — the remote that locks and unlocks your car — costs $50 to $200 at a dealership or $40 to $150 at a locksmith. A transponder key, which has an electronic chip that communicates with your car's ignition system, costs $100 to $300 at a dealership or $75 to $200 at a locksmith. Dealerships typically charge more because they program the key to your vehicle's security system.

Key Takeaways

  • Dealerships are the most reliable option for modern cars with electronic keys, but they charge the highest prices and may require an appointment.
  • Locksmiths can usually cut and program keys faster than dealerships and cost less, but verify they have experience with your car's make and model.
  • Retail key-cutting services are cheapest for basic metal keys but cannot handle electronic fobs or transponder keys.
  • You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership to order a replacement key from a dealership.
  • If you are locked out of your car, a locksmith can open the door and make a key in one visit, while a dealership may require towing.

How to get a key from the dealership

Call your car's dealership and tell them you need a replacement key. Have your VIN ready — you can find it on your registration, insurance card, or on the driver's side dashboard where it meets the windshield. The dealership will ask for your VIN and proof of ownership, such as your registration or title. Some dealerships will make the key on-site if you visit in person; others will order it and have you pick it up a few days later.

Bring a photo ID and your vehicle registration or title when you go to the dealership. The service department will verify that you own the car, cut the key, and program it to your vehicle's security system. This usually takes 30 minutes to an hour if they have the key in stock. If they do not, you may wait several days. Ask about the total cost before they start work, as dealerships sometimes charge a service fee on top of the key price.

How to get a key from a locksmith

Search online for "automotive locksmith near me" or ask your insurance company or roadside information provider for a referral. Call the locksmith and describe your car's year, make, and model. Ask whether they can cut and program the type of key you need — not all locksmiths handle every vehicle, especially newer models with complex security systems.

If you are locked out of your car, the locksmith can come to you and open the door while making a new key. If you have your keys at home, you can visit the locksmith's shop, which is usually faster and cheaper than a mobile visit. Bring your vehicle registration or title and a photo ID. The locksmith will verify ownership and make the key on-site, usually within 30 to 60 minutes. Ask for the total cost upfront, as mobile locksmiths often charge a trip fee in addition to the key price.

How to get a key from a retail service

Home Depot, Walmart, Ace Hardware, and similar stores offer key-cutting services at their customer service desk. This option works only if you need a basic metal key without electronic components. Bring your car to the store or bring a working key with you so the associate can match it. The service takes about 10 minutes and costs $3 to $10 per key.

Retail key-cutting cannot program transponder keys or key fobs, so this route works only for older cars or if you need a spare metal key for a newer car. If your car has a push-button start or a keyless entry system, you must go to a dealership or locksmith instead.

What to do if you are locked out of your car

If you are locked out and need a key when ready, call a mobile locksmith. They will come to your location, open the car door, and cut and program a new key while you wait. This costs more than visiting a locksmith's shop — typically $75 to $200 depending on your location and the type of key — but you will have a working key within an hour.

If you have roadside information through your insurance company or a membership like AAA, call them first. They often cover locksmith costs or can send a locksmith to you at a reduced rate. If you do not have roadside information, search for "automotive locksmith" or "car lockout" in your area and call the first few results to compare prices. Ask whether they charge a trip fee and what the total will be before they come out.

How to prevent losing your car key

Keep a spare key in a safe place at home, not in your car or wallet. If you lose your main key, you will still have a backup. Some people keep a spare key with a trusted friend or family member who lives nearby. You can also store a spare key in a lockbox at home or in a safe deposit box at your bank.

If your car has a keyless entry system, program a second key fob at the same time you get your first one. This costs less than replacing a fob later and gives you a backup if one breaks or gets lost. Write down your VIN and keep it somewhere safe — you will need it to order a replacement key if you lose both copies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make a copy of my car key at a hardware store?

Yes, if it is a basic metal key without electronic components. Hardware stores like Home Depot and Ace Hardware can cut a copy in about 10 minutes for $3 to $10. If your key has a chip or is a key fob, you must go to a dealership or locksmith.

How long does it take to get a replacement key from a dealership?

If the dealership has the key in stock and you visit in person, it usually takes 30 minutes to an hour. If they have to order the key, it may take several days. Call ahead to ask whether they have it in stock before you drive there.

What if I lost my only key and do not have a spare?

Call a mobile locksmith to come to your car and make a new key on the spot. This is faster than towing to a dealership and costs $75 to $200 depending on your location and key type. If you have roadside information, call them first — they may cover the cost.

Do I need my VIN to get a replacement key?

Yes, dealerships require your VIN and proof of ownership. Locksmiths usually ask for your VIN but may be able to work with just your car's year, make, and model if you have the car with you. Retail key-cutting services do not need your VIN if you bring a working key to match.

Can a locksmith make a key if I do not have the original?

Yes. A locksmith can open your car and make a new key from scratch using your VIN and proof of ownership. This costs more than copying an existing key but is faster than ordering from a dealership. Bring your registration or title and a photo ID.