Where to get a new car key depends on your car's age and key type
You have three main routes: a dealership, a locksmith, or a big-box retailer like Home Depot or Walmart. A dealership will charge the most but can handle any key type and reprogram it to your car. A locksmith is usually faster and cheaper, especially for older cars with straightforward keys. A big-box retailer works only for basic metal keys without electronic components, and they're the cheapest option if your car qualifies.
The right choice depends on whether your key has a chip (most cars made after 2000), whether you need it programmed to start the car, and how much you want to spend. A chipped key that won't start your car without programming is useless, so you can't just cut one anywhere.
Key Takeaways
- Dealerships can replace any key type and reprogram it, but typically charge $200 to $500 depending on your car model.
- Locksmiths usually cost $50 to $200 and work faster than dealerships, but not all locksmiths can program newer chipped keys.
- Big-box retailers cut basic metal keys for $2 to $10, but only work if your key has no electronic chip.
- You'll need proof of ownership (registration or title) at a dealership, and the car's VIN, to get a replacement key made.
- If you're locked out and need a key when ready, a mobile locksmith can come to you, but expect to pay a service call fee on top of the key cost.
How to tell if your key has a chip or needs programming
Look at your key. If it has a plastic head with a small dark rectangle or circle embedded in it, it has a chip. If it's just a flat metal key with no plastic, it's a basic key. You can also check your car's manual or call your dealership with your VIN to ask what type of key your car uses.
Even if your key has a chip, you need to know whether it's a passive chip (just identifies the key, doesn't need programming) or an active chip (needs to be programmed to your specific car). Most cars made after 2000 use active chips. If your car won't start when you use a new key, the chip wasn't programmed correctly.
The easiest way to check: try a basic key cut at a hardware store. If it turns in the ignition and the car starts, you have a passive chip or no chip. If the car doesn't start or the key won't turn, you need programming.
Getting a key from a dealership
Call your car's dealership with your VIN (on your registration or dashboard) and ask for the service department. Tell them you need a replacement key. They'll ask whether you want one key or two, and they'll quote you a price. Dealership prices range from $200 to $500 depending on the car model and key type.
You'll need to go in person with proof of ownership—your registration, title, or insurance card. The dealership will verify that you own the car, cut the key, and program it on the spot. This usually takes 30 minutes to an hour. Some dealerships can mail you a key if you can't visit in person, but you'll still need to provide proof of ownership first.
The dealership is your only option if you have a newer luxury car, a push-button start system, or a key fob that controls locks and trunk. It's also the safest choice if you've lost all your keys and have no way to prove you own the car, because the dealership can verify ownership through the VIN and their records.
Getting a key from a locksmith
Find a locksmith in your area by searching "automotive locksmith near me" or asking your insurance company for a referral. Call and describe your car (year, make, model) and your key type. Ask for a quote before they come out. Most locksmiths charge $50 to $200 for a key cut and program, plus a service call fee if they come to you.
You'll need your car's VIN and proof of ownership. A locksmith can usually cut and program a key in 15 to 30 minutes. Many locksmiths offer mobile service—they come to your car and make the key there, which is useful if you're locked out. However, not all locksmiths can program the newest chipped keys, so confirm they can handle your car's year and model before you commit.
Locksmiths are fastest for older cars (pre-2000) with basic keys, and they're a good middle ground between cost and speed. They're also useful if you're locked out and need a key when ready, though you'll pay extra for the emergency service call.
Getting a basic key from a hardware or big-box store
Home Depot, Walmart, Ace Hardware, and similar stores cut basic metal keys for $2 to $10. This works only if your key is a flat metal key with no plastic head or chip. You bring your existing key, they cut a copy, and you leave with a new key in five minutes.
This is the cheapest option, but it only works if your car doesn't require programming. Test the new key in your car before you leave the store to make sure it turns in the ignition and the car starts. If the car doesn't start, you have a chipped key and need to go to a locksmith or dealership instead.
What to do if you're locked out and need a key right now
Call a mobile locksmith. They come to your car, verify your ownership, and make a key on the spot. This costs more than going to a shop—expect $100 to $300 total, including the service call fee—but you get a working key in 30 to 60 minutes without leaving your location.
Bring your registration, insurance card, or title to prove you own the car. The locksmith will ask for your VIN and may ask you to show your driver's license. If you can't prove ownership, they won't make the key, so don't call a locksmith if you're trying to get into someone else's car.
If it's after hours and no locksmiths are available, your roadside information plan (AAA, insurance company roadside service, or car manufacturer roadside service) may cover a locksmith call. Check your membership card or policy before you call.
Documents and information you'll need
| What you need | Why | Where to find it |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of ownership | To verify you own the car and aren't stealing a key | Registration, title, or insurance card |
| Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) | To identify your exact car model and key type | Dashboard (visible through windshield), registration, or title |
| Driver's license | To verify your identity | Your wallet |
| Existing key (if you have one) | To show the locksmith or store what type of key you need | Your keychain |
If you've lost all your keys and can't find your registration, you can still get a replacement key. Call your dealership with your VIN and tell them you've lost all keys. They can look up your ownership in their system and may be able to verify you by phone before you visit. Bring your driver's license and any proof of address (utility bill, lease, or insurance card) when you go in.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a replacement car key cost?
A basic metal key from a hardware store costs $2 to $10. A locksmith charges $50 to $200 for a chipped key with programming. A dealership charges $200 to $500 depending on the car model. Mobile locksmith service adds $50 to $100 for the service call on top of the key cost.
Can I get a key made without the original key?
Yes. A locksmith or dealership can make a key from your VIN and proof of ownership, even if you don't have the original. They'll need to verify you own the car, then they can cut and program a new key. This takes longer than copying an existing key and may cost more.
How long does it take to get a replacement key?
A hardware store key takes 5 to 10 minutes. A locksmith takes 15 to 30 minutes in-shop, or 30 to 60 minutes if they come to you. A dealership takes 30 minutes to an hour. If you order by mail, add 5 to 7 business days for shipping.
What if my new key doesn't work?
If the key turns in the ignition but the car won't start, the chip wasn't programmed correctly. Go back to whoever made the key and ask them to reprogram it at no charge. If the key won't turn in the ignition at all, it was cut incorrectly and should be remade for free.
Do I need to reprogram my car's locks if I lose a key?
No. A lost key doesn't automatically reprogram your car's locks. However, if you're concerned someone else has your key and might use it to steal your car, you can have a locksmith or dealership reprogram all your locks to ignore the lost key. This costs $100 to $300 and is optional.