How Much Is a New Key for a Hyundai Tucson?

A new key for a Hyundai Tucson typically costs between $120 and $450+ in the United States in 2025, depending on the model year, key type (traditional, remote, or smart key), and whether you go to a Hyundai dealer, an automotive locksmith, or a big-box retailer. The cheapest options are basic metal keys cut at retailers, while the most expensive are smart key fobs programmed at a dealership.

Why Hyundai Tucson Key Prices Vary So Widely

The cost of a new Hyundai Tucson key depends mainly on technology, security, and where you get it replaced. Newer Tucsons (roughly 2016 and later) rely heavily on transponder chips and smart-key systems, which require specialized programming tools and security verification, pushing prices well above what drivers paid for older, purely mechanical keys.

Typical Price Ranges by Hyundai Tucson Model Year

Because Hyundai has updated the Tucson’s key systems over the years, the model year is one of the biggest price drivers. Newer vehicles tend to require more advanced—and costly—keys and programming.

• Pre-2010 Tucson (older models):
  

  • Basic metal key cut only: about $20–$60 at a hardware store or locksmith.
  • Transponder key (if equipped): about $80–$180 including cutting and programming.

• 2010–2015 Tucson:
  

  • Transponder key (no remote): about $120–$220 with programming.
  • Key with integrated remote (flip or remote head key): about $180–$260.

• 2016–2020 Tucson:
  

  • Standard transponder key: about $150–$250.
  • Smart key fob (push-button start): about $250–$400 at a dealer; often $200–$330 at a mobile locksmith.

• 2021–2025 Tucson (including Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid):
  

  • Smart key fob: typically $300–$450+ at Hyundai dealers, sometimes $230–$380 through locksmiths or when using a quality aftermarket fob.
  • Emergency “valet” or insert key (metal blade inside the smart fob): usually $30–$80 for cutting only, more if coding is needed.

Overall, owners of newer Tucsons—especially push-button-start models—should budget on the higher end of the range, while drivers of older vehicles can often keep costs under $200 by avoiding dealer-only solutions.

Types of Hyundai Tucson Keys and What They Cost

1. Traditional Mechanical Keys

Older Tucson models and some base trims use a simple metal key that only needs to be cut to match the lock. These are the least expensive and easiest to replace.

For pure mechanical keys, costs usually fall into a narrow band, but they vary slightly depending on where you go and whether you bring your own blank.

• Key blank price: about $3–$20 (generic aftermarket vs. OEM-branded).
• Cutting fee at hardware store or retailer: often $5–$25.
• Locksmith visit (mobile service to your location): typically $70–$120 including travel, cutting, and basic labor.

Mechanical-only keys are now relatively rare on late-model Tucsons, but for older vehicles, they remain a cost-effective backup key option.

2. Transponder Keys (Chipped Keys)

Many Tucsons from the late 2000s onward use transponder keys—metal keys with an embedded chip that must be recognized by the vehicle’s immobilizer. These require both cutting and electronic programming.

Because the chip must be coded to your specific vehicle, price quotes usually bundle key, cutting, and programming together.

• Key hardware:
  

  • Aftermarket transponder key: about $25–$70.
  • OEM Hyundai-branded transponder key: about $60–$140.

• Programming costs:
  

  • Dealer programming: roughly $90–$180 plus any diagnostic fee.
  • Locksmith programming: often $60–$140, depending on travel and complexity.

• Total estimated cost: usually $120–$250 for a fully functional transponder key for most Tucson model years that use them.

Transponder keys dramatically improve theft protection but require specialized equipment, which explains much of their higher cost versus older mechanical keys.

3. Remote Keys and Flip Keys

Some Tucsons use keys that combine a metal blade with integrated lock/unlock buttons—often called remote head keys or flip keys. These still contain a transponder chip for starting the engine but add remote functions in the same unit.

The combination of mechanical cutting, chip programming, and remote pairing makes these keys more expensive than basic transponder keys, though not as costly as full smart fobs.

• Key hardware:
  

  • Aftermarket remote head / flip key: about $40–$110.
  • OEM Hyundai remote key: about $120–$200.

• Programming:
  

  • Dealer: often $100–$190 including both immobilizer and remote pairing.
  • Locksmith: usually $80–$160, depending on region and year.

• Total estimated cost: commonly $180–$280 for a complete working remote key.

Flip and remote head keys offer more convenience than a separate remote and metal key, and their total cost tends to land in the middle of the Tucson key price spectrum.

4. Smart Key Fobs (Push-Button Start)

Most late-model Hyundai Tucsons, especially higher trims and hybrids from around 2016 onward, use smart key fobs that enable keyless entry and push-button start. These are the most expensive to replace due to advanced electronics and security protocols.

For smart keys, pricing depends heavily on whether you choose OEM parts from a dealer or an aftermarket fob programmed by a locksmith.

• Fob hardware:
  

  • OEM Hyundai smart key fob: typically $180–$320 for the part alone.
  • Aftermarket or refurbished smart key: about $90–$220, depending on quality and source.

• Programming and pairing:
  

  • Dealer programming and system registration: often $120–$200+.
  • Mobile locksmith programming: typically $90–$170, sometimes less if you supply your own compatible fob.

• Total estimated cost:
  

  • At Hyundai dealer: about $300–$450+.
  • Through a reputable auto locksmith: commonly $230–$380.

While smart keys are costly, they are standard on many modern Tucsons, and some features—like remote start on certain trims—work only with properly programmed OEM-style fobs.

Dealer vs. Locksmith vs. Retailer: Where to Get a New Key

Hyundai Dealer

Hyundai dealers can provide OEM keys and access to official programming tools and databases, which is especially important for brand-new model years and some push-button-start systems.

Costs vary by dealer and region but generally follow predictable patterns.

• Advantages:
  

  • Guaranteed compatibility and OEM hardware.
  • Full access to Hyundai’s latest programming procedures and security updates.
  • Ability to handle complex cases (e.g., all keys lost, immobilizer resets).

• Disadvantages:
  

  • Typically the most expensive option.
  • May require towing the vehicle to the dealership if no working key exists.
  • Longer wait times for appointments or for special-order keys.

• Typical price band:
  

  • Transponder / remote keys: about $180–$300 total.
  • Smart key fobs: about $300–$450+ total.

Dealers are often the safest route for new or under-warranty Tucsons, especially when security and feature compatibility are top priorities.

Automotive Locksmith

Professional auto locksmiths have increasingly sophisticated tools that can handle many Hyundai models, including late-model Tucsons with smart keys, often at lower prices than dealerships.

When evaluating locksmiths, drivers should look at their capabilities, mobile service coverage, and experience with Hyundai vehicles.

• Advantages:
  

  • Frequently cheaper than dealers, especially for smart keys.
  • Mobile service—can come to your home, office, or roadside location.
  • Often faster same-day or next-day service.

• Disadvantages:
  

  • Not all locksmiths can program the very latest Tucson systems.
  • Quality and warranty support can vary; vetting is important.
  • Some may prefer aftermarket fobs, which might not support every advanced feature.

• Typical price band:
  

  • Transponder keys: about $120–$220 total.
  • Smart keys: usually $230–$380 total, including mobile service.

For many Tucson owners, a reputable automotive locksmith offers the best balance of cost, convenience, and technical capability, particularly if the car is no longer under factory warranty.

Big-Box Retailers, Hardware Stores, and Online Sellers

Large retailers and some hardware chains can duplicate simpler keys and, in some cases, program basic transponder keys. Meanwhile, online marketplaces sell key blanks and fobs that you can take to a locksmith or dealer for programming.

Because of limitations on in-store programming equipment and staff training, these options work best for older or less sophisticated key types.

• Advantages:
  

  • Lowest upfront price for blanks and cutting.
  • Convenient locations and extended hours.
  • Online sellers offer a wide range of OEM and aftermarket key hardware.

• Disadvantages:
  

  • Often cannot program smart key fobs or some newer transponder systems.
  • Online keys may be incompatible or locked from prior programming (if used/refurbished).
  • You may still need a locksmith or dealer to complete programming, adding to the final cost.

• Typical price band:
  

  • Key blanks: about $5–$60, depending on type and brand.
  • Cutting only: around $5–$25 in-store.
  • Total cost after separate programming: frequently ends up similar to using a locksmith directly.

Retailers and online marketplaces can reduce the cost of the physical key or fob, but they rarely offer a complete, end-to-end solution for modern Tucson keys without additional professional programming.

Factors That Influence the Final Cost

Even for the same model year and key type, prices can vary significantly. Several practical and geographic factors play a role in how much you ultimately pay for a new Hyundai Tucson key.

• Model year and trim:
  

  • Higher trims and hybrid versions are more likely to use complex smart key systems.
  • Newest model years may require dealer-only or latest-generation programming tools.

• Whether you have a working key now:
  

  • Duplicating an existing key is cheaper and faster.
  • “All keys lost” scenarios may require extra security steps, reprogramming of the immobilizer, or towing.

• OEM vs. aftermarket parts:
  

  • OEM Hyundai keys cost more but guarantee compatibility and full feature support.
  • Good aftermarket fobs can save money but occasionally have limited range or features.

• Region and labor rates:
  

  • Costs tend to be higher in large metro areas with higher labor expenses.
  • Rural areas may have fewer locksmiths; travel surcharges can apply.

• Emergency vs. scheduled service:
  

  • After-hours, weekend, or roadside emergency visits frequently include premium fees.
  • Scheduling during regular business hours is usually cheaper.

Because of these variables, calling two or three local providers with your VIN and exact model year is often the quickest way to get a precise, locally accurate quote.

How to Keep Costs Down When Replacing a Tucson Key

While a modern Hyundai Tucson key can be expensive, there are several ways to minimize the impact—especially if you plan ahead rather than waiting until all keys are lost.

• Make a duplicate while you still have a working key:
  

  • Duplicating is cheaper than reprogramming from scratch after all keys are lost.
  • Many locksmiths offer discounts for second or third keys ordered at the same time.

• Compare quotes:
  

  • Call a Hyundai dealer and at least one or two automotive locksmiths.
  • Ask specifically for total cost including parts, programming, and any travel or diagnostic fees.

• Consider a backup mechanical or basic transponder key:
  

  • Even if you primarily use a smart fob, a simple backup key can prevent a total lockout.
  • Backup keys are often significantly cheaper than a full-featured replacement fob.

• Check insurance, roadside assistance, or warranty coverage:
  

  • Some comprehensive auto policies or roadside plans partially cover lost keys.
  • Certain extended warranties or key protection add-ons contribute to replacement costs.

• Use reputable sources for online keys:
  

  • Stick to sellers who clearly state compatibility by year and model and offer returns.
  • Confirm with a locksmith in advance that they will program a customer-supplied key.

Planning ahead by securing an extra key and checking coverage options can dramatically reduce both the price and the stress when a Tucson key is lost, damaged, or stops working.

What Tucson Owners Should Do Right Now

For current Hyundai Tucson drivers, the most cost-effective strategy is preventive: know what key you have, what it costs to replace, and whether you already have enough working spares.

• Identify your key type:
  

  • Check whether you use a traditional metal key, a remote key, or a smart key fob with push-button start.
  • Look for a small metal “emergency” key hidden inside smart fobs.

• Verify how many working keys you have:
  

  • Ideally, keep at least two working keys/fobs for every Tucson.
  • Store one in a secure, separate location from the car and your everyday key ring.

• Call for local pricing:
  

  • Ask your Hyundai dealer for a quote based on your VIN.
  • Contact at least one auto locksmith to compare costs, especially for smart keys.

• Consider getting a spare made:
  

  • If you’re down to one working key, making a spare now will almost always be cheaper than replacing a lost last key later.
  • For newer push-button-start Tucsons, a spare smart fob can save towing and emergency fees.

Taking these steps before a crisis hits can convert an expensive emergency into a planned, manageable expense for Hyundai Tucson owners.

Summary

In 2025, a new key for a Hyundai Tucson generally costs $120 to over $450, with the price driven by the model year, whether you use a mechanical, transponder, remote, or smart key, and where you go for service. Older Tucsons with basic keys often fall under $200, while late-model, push-button-start Tucsons commonly land between $250 and $450 for a fully programmed smart fob. Dealers provide OEM parts and full support at the highest price, locksmiths typically offer competitive and convenient alternatives, and retailers or online sources can reduce hardware costs but usually still require professional programming. For most owners, the lowest long-term cost comes from getting a spare made while at least one key still works and comparing quotes before choosing where to have the job done.

How much to replace a Hyundai key?

Hyndai Key Fob Replacement Costs
If your Hyndai key fob is misplaced or irreparably damaged, the only solution is to order a replacement key fob. Depending on the model and make, brand-new replacement key fobs can cost you $200 or more.

How much is it to replace one key?

Transponder keys – Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $250 for a transponder key replacement. The immobilizer chip in the key will also need to be programmed. Smart keys – Replacement costs for smart keys can range from $200 to $500 or more. The advanced technology and keyless features contribute to the higher price.

How much does a new Hyundai key cost?

Hyundai key replacement cost in the UK ranges from £150 to £300, depending on the type of key and your car model. Programming and cutting may add to the price for keyless entry systems. The exact cost will vary based on your vehicle’s specifications and the complexity of the replacement.

How much is a Hyundai Tucson replacement key?

Like a dolt, I’ve lost my second fob key to my new 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid. I still have one working fob. My nearest Hyundai service centers are quoting me prices in the $300s to replace – $275 for the key fob, plus programming fee.