Can a Locksmith Make a Car Key?

Yes, professional locksmiths can make car keys, even if you’ve lost the original. Modern automotive locksmiths are equipped to cut and program most types of car keys, including transponder keys, remote-head keys, and push-button start smart fobs. In fact, industry data shows that most car key replacements nationwide are handled by locksmiths rather than dealerships, largely because locksmiths offer faster service and lower overall costs.

“Many drivers assume only a dealership can replace a car key. In reality, locksmiths can do the same job, often faster and for significantly less.” - KeyMe Locksmiths

What Types of Car Keys Can a Locksmith Make?

Today’s locksmiths support a wide range of vehicle key technologies.

1. Standard Mechanical Car Keys

These are older, non-electronic keys.

• No chip or electronics
• Cut to match the ignition and door locks
• Common in vehicles from the 1990s and earlier

Locksmith capability: Yes
Typical cost: $20–$50

2. Transponder (Chip) Keys

Most vehicles made after 2000 use transponder keys.

• Contain a small chip that communicates with the car
• Must be cut and programmed
• Prevents unauthorized starting

Vehicle insight: Nearly 80% of cars on the road today use transponder-based keys.

Locksmith capability: Yes
Typical cost: $75–$150

3. Remote-Head Keys

These combine a mechanical key with remote lock/unlock buttons.

• Requires cutting + programming
• Common in mid-2000s vehicles

Locksmith capability: Yes
Typical cost: $100–$180

4. Smart Keys / Push-Button Start Fobs

Used in most modern vehicles.

• Wireless proximity-based technology
• No traditional ignition key
• Requires advanced programming tools

Modern vehicle insight: Over 90% of new vehicles sold today use push-button start systems.

Locksmith capability: Yes (for most makes and models)
Typical cost: $150–$400

Automotive locksmith services: https://key.me/vehicle-keys 

Can a Locksmith Make a Car Key Without the Original?

Yes. Even if you’ve lost your only key, a locksmith can usually create a replacement by:

• Using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• Retrieving factory key codes
• Decoding the door or ignition lock
• Programming a new key or fob to the immobilizer

“The original key isn’t required. As long as ownership is verified, we can generate and program a new key from scratch.” - KeyMe Locksmiths

What Information Does a Locksmith Need?

To make a car key, locksmiths typically require:

• Year, make, and model
• VIN
• Proof of vehicle ownership (registration or title)
• Photo ID

This ensures security and prevents unauthorized key creation.

Locksmith vs. Dealership: What’s the Difference?

Cost insight: Locksmith-made car keys are often 40–70% less expensive than dealership replacements, especially when towing is avoided.

Can KeyMe Help Make a Car Key?

Yes. KeyMe offers multiple ways to replace car keys:

• Mobile automotive locksmiths available 24/7

• Kiosk-assisted ordering for compatible vehicle keys

• Support for 38,000+ vehicle key and fob combinations
  
  

Many customers order a key through a kiosk and schedule a locksmith-assisted programming appointment if needed.

Find a KeyMe kiosk: https://key.me/kiosks
Request mobile service: https://key.me/locksmiths 

When a Locksmith Might Not Be Able to Make the Key

In limited cases, a dealership may be required:

• Rare or exotic vehicles
• Very new models with proprietary encryption
• Manufacturer-restricted systems

A reputable locksmith will verify compatibility upfront.

FAQs

Is it safe to get a car key made by a locksmith?

Yes. Licensed locksmiths use manufacturer-compatible tools and verify ownership.

Can a locksmith program push-button start keys?

Yes, for most vehicles.

How long does it take?

Many replacements are completed in under an hour once on site.

Will old lost keys still work?

A locksmith can erase old keys from the system for security.

Final Thoughts: Locksmiths Are the Go-To for Car Keys

If you need a car key made—whether it’s a basic key or a modern smart fob—a professional locksmith is often the fastest, most cost-effective solution. With the right tools and expertise, locksmiths can restore access and security without the hassle of a dealership visit.

Need a car key made now? Call KeyMe Locksmiths 24/7
Looking for a spare? Find a KeyMe kiosk near you