Learn How To Replace A Lost Car Key And Save Money

Losing your car keys can be frustrating and a real inconvenience with today’s busy schedules. Learn the best ways to replace a lost car key and how to prevent future frustrations. Depending on the vehicle you own, it can cost hundreds of dollars for a replacement. We can help you reduce that cost.

We discovered this very thing when our daughter lost her car keys. The problem came when I was checking to see what our options were for getting a replacement key. To have another key made was going to cost well over $100 from the dealer! Ouch!

Needless to say, I started doing some research and found there were some cheaper options.  I also found ways we could have prevented these higher costs altogether. We’d like to share this information with you and encourage you to get extra keys made now. Don’t wait till it’s too late!

Issues When Replacing A Lost Car Key

The days of just going to the hardware and having a duplicate car key made have become a little more complicated. Starting back in the late 1990’s vehicle manufacturers began installing a “chip” (they are really called a transponder, but I prefer chip) in the plastic cover on your car keys.

This chip must be programmed for your vehicle or it will not start. I knew this and I’m sure most folks reading this article know this. However, if you’ve never had to get a replacement made for one of these keys, you probably didn’t know that the cost went from having a key cut at the local hardware for $4 or $5 to around $100 or more, depending on the vehicle, at the dealer!

There are a few options for getting a replacement key made, which I’ll cover more below, that can save you money. However, the second main issue is that you must have at least one original programmed key to program a second new key. If you’ve lost both keys, then be prepared to pay the maximum at the dealership.

Best Solutions For Making A Car Key

When it comes to getting car keys made there are three basic options. Oddly enough they coincide with three common “situations” that may warrant you to have a new car key made. First, let’s take a look at your options, and then we’ll look at the potential situations you might encounter next. Using the correct method in the right situation, you can save yourself a lot of money and grief.

Car Key Replacement Options

Let’s take a look at the three basic options to have a spare or replacement key made. Keep in mind, none of them are the $4 or $5 dollar options from many years ago. However, they can help you out if you’re ever in a bind and save you a few bucks in the process.

Following the old boy scout motto “always be prepared”, is your best option. Well… I think it was the boy scout motto. Regardless, they’re definitely words to live by. Always have at least one spare key available. Especially when you’re traveling on long trips. In most cases, it will be less expensive to have a second key made.

I have found several options to have these types of key replacements done and will provide more information and tips on these in the “Lost Key Replacement Resources” section below.

Self-Programming Vehicle Transponder Key

Can you program your own car transponder key? The short answer is yes you can, in most cases.  I have found that most vehicle manufacturers have a means for the vehicle owner to program their own “spare” key. Unfortunately, there are a few exceptions in some of the newer vehicles made today.

To further complicate things, some manufacturers require you to have two original programmed keys in order to program your own replacement key. So, if you’re proactive and have a spare made before it’s needed, you’re all set.

If you search the internet you can purchase a “blank” key, with the chip in it, for about $10 – $15. Once you have the key you can take it to your local hardware or locksmith and have them cut the key for your vehicle for somewhere around $5. Then you can follow the manufacturer’s steps for self-programming the chip for your car. So for $15 – $20, you can always have a spare key and potentially save yourself $80 or more. By far this is the best option.

Transponder Key Programmer Tool

Many car manufacturers are making it so you have to go back to the dealership to get a replacement key. It is becoming more difficult to find a workaround. Many vehicles and situations require the use of a “programming tool” to do this.

For example, our daughter’s car was a 2006 Ford Taurus. As it turned out, in order to self-program a new key for a Ford Taurus, you must have two original programmed keys to program a new key! So we had to have a new key made.

This programming tool replacement method typically requires you to have at least one spare programmed key. The programmed key is used along with a “programming tool”, that plugs into the vehicle’s OBD (on-board diagnostic) port under the dash.

By using the programming tool the vehicle can be made to program a new key/fob to work with your vehicle. Even if it would normally require two keys to self-program. The downside is you have to pay for a new transponder key (or keyfob), cutting the key to fit your vehicle and the programming. Depending on the vehicle, this can cost you as much as $75 to $300, or more!

Your vehicle’s dealership can provide this service as well, but typically they charge more for that service than most of the other options. While researching this topic I’ve found a few resources that may help you get a replacement key made and save you some money in the process. More on that below.

Dealership/Locksmith Transponder Key/keyfob Replacement

Unfortunately, many of the newer vehicles do not have the “self-programming” option available. That takes away your easiest and least expensive option right away. In most cases, you still should be able to use the “programming tool” option to save a few dollars.

However, I have heard that many newer vehicle keys and keyfobs can only be replaced by the dealership. So Imagine the worst-case scenario; you’ve lost your car keys and you have no spares available. This usually means a dealership and vehicle towing will be involved. This is obviously the most expensive way to replace a lost car key.

A dealership can make a replacement key using your vehicle’s VIN (vehicle identification number). After establishing vehicle ownership, they can cut the key, based on the VIN, and then they have to program the transponder. Keep in mind, many dealerships are not open on the weekend. And as mentioned earlier, depending on the type of key or keyfob this could cost several hundred dollars!

The second option in this worst-case scenario is to contact a locksmith. They can usually help you get a replacement key and often it can be less than a dealership. Most of the time they can come right to your location. However, sometimes it can take a significant amount of time.

A local locksmith I talked to said they have to collect some of your personal and call it in for approval from a state agency before they can proceed. This is to verify the vehicle isn’t stolen. This process can take anywhere from 3 to 24 hours. And this verification process cannot be done on the weekend.

Once they get approval, then they can cut they key, drive to your location, and program the key to your vehicle. Oh yeah, the timing of that depends on their other scheduled work.

Situations Requiring Car Key Replacements

As mentioned above, there are a few different situations you can find yourself in that you may want, or need, to have a replacement car key made. Let’s take a look at those situations and explore which key replacement option may work best for you.

First Key Replacement Situation

The first situation is you simply want an extra or “spare” key. Maybe you want one to stick in your wallet or purse, or to “hide it” somewhere on the vehicle. It’s nice to know you have that key available just in case you lock your keys in the car or lose your normal set of keys.

In most cases, all of the above options will work for you. However, as we’ve discussed, the cost can play a significant role in the method you use. For this reason, you should look into whether your vehicle has the self-programming feature. It’s easy to do, convenient, and can save you a lot of money.

Second Key Replacement Situation

The second situation is you only have one key for your vehicle. Maybe you lost a key and don’t have a spare. Or you bought a used vehicle and it only had one key. At least you can replace the missing key as time permits.

If self-programming is not an option for your vehicle, then the programming tool method typically is the next logical choice. Obviously, dealerships and locksmiths have the programming tools. However, there are many other businesses that often have the programming tools and charge much less (more info below).

Third Key Replacement Situation

The third situation is the one we all dread. You lose your vehicle’s key and you don’t have another key available. Maybe you’re traveling far from home and your spare isn’t available, or maybe you only have one key for the vehicle. This represents an emergency situation.

In this situation you are more than likely going to need the services of the dealership or a locksmith. As mentioned above, this does come at a price. But when you’re stranded it’s nice to know there are a couple of option.

Lost Car Key Replacement Resources

While researching key replacement options and actually getting, and making, spare keys over the last couple of years, I have found some useful resources and can offer a few tips that may help. Below I’ll share some of my experiences and tips that may help you get spare keys made or help you out in an emergency situation.

To get started here are a couple of general tips that can get you going in the right direction.

Self-programming Resources

Probably the number one resource is the I found is the keyfobprogram.com website. It is a very useful website that can help you determine if any self-programming options are available for your vehicle. It also provides the self-programming steps for your vehicle.

Simply go to and select your vehicle’s year, make, and model. It will tell you if your vehicle has the self-programming option and whether you need one or two working keys. Once you have this information you can pursue your best option.

As for buying new, uncut transponder keys, I’ve had good luck on Amazon. I have bought and programmed transponder keys for a 2006 Ford Taurus, 2008 Chevy Silverado, and our 2012 Jeep Wrangler. All the keys self-programmed with no issues and are usually very reasonably priced.

Programming Tool Resources

If you are not able to self-program your vehicle’s key yourself, not all is lost. I have found there are several businesses around that have “programming tools” that should be able to help you. One word of caution when looking for someone to program a key. There are two different types of programming available. There’s cloning and there is the regular programming service.

Cloning vs Regular Programming

Cloning is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a device that makes an exact copy of the original programmed key. They work fine but have one drawback. They cannot be used along with the original programmed key to self-program the third key, in a two-key self-programming vehicle. The vehicle will just think you’ve used the same key twice. Avoid cloned keys in this situation.

The normal programming creates a second, unique key that can be used in a two-key self-programming vehicle. This type of programming involves plugging the tool into the vehicle as described earlier. Cloning programming tools usually can make the copy in the store without having to go out to the vehicle. Be sure to ask what type of programming they use. It can make a big difference down the road.

Hardware Stores

Most of the transponder keys I’ve self-programmed were bought on Amazon and cut by our local hardware store. As mentioned earlier, this offers the greatest savings potential. If you happen to be in a bind, some hardware stores can normally do more.

Many local hardware stores are able to provide the blank and make a spare car key for you as well. They can cut and program keys all in one stop. If you buy the key from them you can expect to pay well in excess of $100, depending on the key type. And there’s the “cloning” issue to be aware of. However, they can be a good option on short notice.

Another good resource is Ace Hardware stores. As with other store chains, only select locations provide their automotive key-making service. I had great luck with the one in our area. And was able to save quite a bit of money.

I was able to buy a key/fob online ($15) and they were able to cut and program the key for $30. The cost to have that spare key made was only $45! I was then able to use the new key and the original key to self-program a third spare key.

With that said, I have to say I’ve called Ace Hardware with a few questions while writing this blog post, and got a few different responses. Such as it would cost $80 to program a key purchased elsewhere or they would rather the key be purchased from them.

The key here is to make some calls before buying anything and ask lots of questions. I know there are differences in costs between vehicle manufacturers and key/fob types, so verify everything before making any decisions.

Other Key Programming Options

When we had to get a key made for our daughter’s car, we found an aftermarket key shop called The Keyless Shop. They appear to be associated with Sears stores and are located in small kiosks outside of Sears in several of the bigger cities around the country. They made the replacement key for my daughter’s car for $75 as advertised.

The Keyless Shops are located all across the U.S. in select locations. If you happen to be in a city they cover, they can be a good resource at competitive prices.

Many of the major auto parts stores claim to have key replacement services on the internet. I have found that in smaller towns this is not always the case. As with other store chains, only select locations provide automotive key-making services.

Another unlikely resource is Batteries Plus. They are well known around the U.S. for selling and recycling batteries. I was surprised to see they offer car key-making services. But just like some of the others I’ve mentioned, only select locations provide the service.

As you can see if you are ever in need of key programming, there are plenty of options. The key is to verify which one works best for your situation and fits your budget.

Dealership/Locksmith Options

Although dealerships and locksmiths may be the most expensive option, there will be times that their services are well worth it. There are many locksmiths that offer 24-hour service. I’m sure there are additional charges for those services, but sometimes it worth the extra cost.

But just like any of the other options above, be sure to make a few calls. Even if it’s an emergency situation. Call the dealerships for pricing. Call a few locksmiths to see what they charge. See how much towing will cost you if your vehicle has to be towed to a dealership. The best value may be to have a locksmith come to your location.

I compared the local cost for having a locksmith come to my location to replace a key versus having a dealership make a key for my 2012 Jeep Wrangler. The locksmith would charge roughly $300 to come to my location and make the key. The dealership would make the key for about $225, but that did not include the vehicle being towed to the dealership.

I would like to share one locksmith resource I found called “Pop-A-Lock“. It’s a locksmith company that has many locations around the US and Canada. If there isn’t one near you, I’m sure there are many other locksmith companies out there that can help.

Additional Vehicle Information

Our family also has a 2006 Toyota Camry and a 2008 Chevy Silverado. Both of these vehicles are able to program a replacement key with just one original key. So, as a rule, you should be okay with just having two sets of keys. For the Ford Taurus and the Jeep Wrangler, we should always have that third spare key.

My wife’s car has the push-button start with a smart key fob. I’m still researching it, but my initial thought is to guard it with your life!! The cheapest programmed replacement I’ve found so far is $225. I’ve read that depending on the brand and functionality of these fobs they can cost anywhere from $300 or more at the dealer!!

A friend of mine has a 2011 Dodge Ram pickup that he bought recently. The truck came with only one key. When he looked into getting a second key made he got some bad news. Starting around 2010 and later Dodge Rams require you to go to the dealer or locksmith to have a key made.

The best price he’s found so far is $125 at the Keyless Shop, which requires an hour and a half drive. His local dealers are charging $200. It appears “spare keys” should be a real consideration when purchasing a used vehicle.

Below we offer a few of the self-programming procedures of the vehicles we own. We hope they can help you if you have the same make and model of vehicle.

How To Program A Ford Taurus Key From 1998 to 2007

The first step is to locate the appropriate blank key that is compatible with your original key. Most keys have a mark (letter, number, or some other mark) stamped into it to identify it. Then have the key cut to fit the ignition.

How To Program A 2006 Toyota Camry Key

How To Program A 2007-2013 Chevy Silverado Key

How To Program A 2012 Jeep Wrangler Key/Fob

You must have two programmed key/fobs to program a new one.

Are Keyless Entry Remotes Programmable

Most keyless entry remotes are easily programmable.  As long as you have one good key you should be able to easily find and program your own remote.  The keyfobprogram.com website mentioned above also covers the programming of key fobs as well.

I have read that the Smart Fobs on the 2015 Nissan Muranos and older can be self-programmed. However, so far the research on our 2016 Nissan Murano has not turned up any self-programming option and as mentioned above they are expensive to replace. 

One option to help protect against losing your keys is a “key finding” device that works with your smartphone.  Many of these devices can be used in reverse to help you locate a misplaced phone too!  We are using the TrackR Bravo.  If you are considering one of these devices, be sure to do your research.  They have different features and their pros and cons.  You’ll need to decide what will work best for you.

Replacing Lost Car Keys Take-Aways

Our goal with this article was to help you become aware of the requirements and costs involved if you have to replace a lost car key. We also want to point out that the best way to avoid the high costs is to be proactive and have the necessary number of spares.

As you can see, acting early and being prepared can save you time, frustration, and money! It’s also the best way to help from being stranded and paying the high costs of an emergency car key Replacement. So, do yourself a favor and get your spares made before your car keys come up missing!

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