Can I get a replacement key from a dealership?

Yes. Most franchised dealerships can provide and program replacement keys for your vehicle, but you’ll need proof of ownership and a valid ID, costs can be higher than a locksmith, and some cars may need to be present or towed in for programming. Availability, price, and process vary by make, model, year, and key type.

What dealerships can provide

Dealerships can usually supply factory-authorized keys and perform the required cutting and programming, ensuring compatibility with your vehicle’s immobilizer and remote systems.

• Conventional metal keys: Basic, non-electronic keys for older vehicles.
• Transponder (chipped) keys: Cut keys with an embedded chip that must be programmed to the car’s immobilizer.
• Remote key fobs/flip keys: Keys that include remote lock/unlock and sometimes trunk/start functions.
• Proximity/smart keys (push-button start): Hands-free fobs requiring advanced programming and pairing.
• Key cards/digital credentials: For brands like Tesla or Renault; may include app-based provisioning plus optional physical fobs/cards.

Because dealers have direct access to OEM parts catalogs and security systems, they are typically the most reliable source for guaranteed compatibility, especially for late-model vehicles with enhanced anti-theft systems.

What you need to bring

For security, dealers must verify you’re the lawful owner before ordering or programming a key. Bringing complete documentation helps avoid delays.

• Government-issued photo ID: Driver’s license or passport.
• Proof of ownership: Registration, title, or lease agreement matching your ID.
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): Found on the dash, door jamb, insurance card, or registration.
• Proof of insurance: Sometimes requested for service records and verification.
• Existing keys/fobs: Bring all keys so the dealer can reprogram and sync them together.
• Vehicle presence: Many vehicles must be on-site for programming; if all keys are lost, towing may be required.
• App access (for digital keys): Some brands require app login for pairing or digital key provisioning.

Having these items ready allows the dealership to cut the key to your VIN and complete immobilizer and remote programming without repeat visits.

The process, step by step

Most dealerships follow a structured workflow, from identity verification to programming and testing, to ensure the new key functions and lost keys are secured.

1. Contact the dealer with your VIN to confirm key availability, price, and whether your vehicle must be present.
2. Visit with ID and proof of ownership so they can order a key coded to your VIN and cut it if required.
3. Schedule programming: The dealer pairs the key/fob to your car’s immobilizer and remote system.
4. Bring the vehicle (or tow it if you have no working key) for final programming and synchronization.
5. Test functions: Start authorization, lock/unlock, trunk, remote start (if equipped).
6. Request deactivation of lost/stolen keys where supported, to prevent unauthorized use.

This sequence minimizes rework and ensures the new key integrates with your car’s security features as intended.

Costs and timing

Prices and turnaround depend on the key type, brand, and parts availability; luxury and newer vehicles tend to cost more due to advanced security and parts sourcing.

• Conventional metal key: About $5–$50; often same-day if blanks are in stock.
• Transponder key: About $75–$250 plus programming; typically same-day to 1–2 days.
• Remote/flip key: About $150–$300 plus programming; 1–3 days common.
• Proximity/smart key: About $200–$600+ plus programming; 1–7 days depending on stock.
• High-security/luxury (e.g., Mercedes, BMW, Audi): About $400–$1,000+; may require factory ordering and proof checks.
• Tesla: Key card roughly $35–$50; fob roughly $175–$200, plus pairing at a Service Center or via the app.
• Labor/programming: About $50–$200+ depending on complexity and local rates.

If the dealer must special-order a key coded to your VIN, expect added lead time; supply-chain delays can extend waits, especially for rare models.

Brand-specific notes

Security systems and parts policies vary. Some brands are routinely serviced by independent locksmiths; others restrict keys or programming data.

• Mercedes-Benz (late models, FBS4/FBS5): Often dealer-only ordering and programming; vehicle and documentation required.
• BMW/Mini (CAS/FEM/BDC): Dealer or qualified specialists; some modules require online authorization/sync.
• VW/Audi/Skoda/Seat: Immobilizer and component protection typically require online coding (dealers or vetted locksmiths with authorized access).
• Toyota/Lexus: Dealer and many locksmiths can program; some models require seed codes or security tokens.
• Ford/GM/Stellantis (Chrysler/Jeep/Ram): Broad locksmith support; dealers stock common fobs and can disable lost keys.
• Hyundai/Kia/Subaru/Honda/Nissan/Mazda: Generally readily serviced; smart-key pairing may require vehicle presence.
• Tesla: Service Centers provide key cards/fobs and pair to your account; app-based digital access can serve as a backup.
• Exotics and older imports: Keys may be dealer-only with long lead times and strict proof-of-ownership requirements.

Checking with your specific brand’s service department is the fastest way to confirm what’s possible and how long it will take.

When a locksmith might be better

Independent automotive locksmiths can be faster and less expensive, especially for common models, and many offer mobile service if you’re stranded.

• Convenience: Mobile programming at your location; avoids towing if all keys are lost.
• Cost: Often cheaper for transponder and remote keys than dealerships.
• Capability: Many are certified with authorized access to security PINs and immobilizer data.
• Limitations: Certain brands/models (e.g., late Mercedes, some BMW/Audi) may still require dealer involvement.
• Aftermarket parts: Cheaper fobs exist, but quality and compatibility vary; ask about warranties.

If your vehicle allows locksmith programming, you may save both time and money; confirm that lost keys can be deleted from the system for security.

Tips to save time and money

A bit of preparation can reduce downtime and prevent costly emergencies if you lose your only key.

• Make a spare now: Programming a second key is typically cheaper and avoids towing.
• Record your key code: Some manufacturers provide a key code card; store it securely.
• Bring all keys to programming: Ensures each key is synced and stray keys can be removed.
• Check coverage: Insurance, roadside assistance, credit cards, and extended warranties may reimburse key replacement.
• Ask about deactivating lost keys: Improves security after theft or loss.
• Verify OEM vs aftermarket: Confirm compatibility and warranty before choosing cheaper parts.
• Keep your registration and ID current: Mismatched info can delay service.

Planning ahead and verifying options with both a dealer and a reputable locksmith can yield the best balance of cost, speed, and security.

Legal and security considerations

Key replacement is tightly controlled to deter theft; expect strict identity checks and safeguards.

• Proof of ownership is mandatory: Dealers and legitimate locksmiths won’t cut/program keys without it.
• VIN confidentiality: Share your VIN only with trusted service providers.
• Sale or purchase of a used car: Reprogram or replace keys to remove previous owners’ access.
• Stolen keys: File a police report and have the lost keys disabled where possible.

These measures protect your vehicle and help service providers comply with anti-theft regulations and manufacturer policies.

Summary

You can get a replacement key from a dealership, and for many vehicles—especially late-model or luxury brands—it’s the most reliable route. Bring ID, proof of ownership, and your VIN; be prepared for programming requirements that may necessitate the vehicle being on-site. Costs range widely by key type and brand, and wait times depend on parts availability. For common models, a certified automotive locksmith can be faster and cheaper, but some brands still require dealer-only keys and programming. Wherever you go, ask to deactivate any lost keys to maintain security and consider making a spare to avoid future hassles.

Why do dealerships not give you a second key?

There’s a shortage on a lot of the smart keys which was holding up production and/or was keeping cars from going saleable due to repair orders for a second key. It’s a cost saving measure but also made a ton of cars saleable that otherwise wouldn’t be due to needing a second key.

Can a car dealership make a replacement key?

Yes, you can typically get a new car key from the dealership, even if you’ve lost the original. Here’s what you generally need to do:

Can I get a replacement car key without the original?

You can still acquire a replacement key if you have lost the original. You may consider returning to the dealer to obtain a replacement key, however, this can be very expensive, especially if your vehicle needs to be towed. A more affordable option is to enlist the services of an auto locksmith.

How much for a new key from a dealership?

The cost can range from under $50 for a basic key to over $600 for a more advanced key fob replacement at the dealership.