When You Need a New Car Key
You've lost every key
It's stressful, but it's fixable for most cars. Tell us the car details and whether there's any chance an old key is still around. If we can't do your car, we'll tell you on the phone.
You're down to one key
This is the best time to call. Getting a spare made while one key still works is usually simpler than starting from nothing after you lose it.
Your key is broken
Maybe the blade snapped, the head cracked, or the chip inside stopped working. What we do depends on which part broke, so describe the damage or send us a photo.
Your key is worn out
Old keys wear down. If yours has started to stick in the door or the ignition, we'll check whether you need a fresh copy or whether the lock itself needs attention.
Car Keys We Replace
Not every car key is the same, and that changes the job.
Plain metal keys
Older cars often use a simple metal key with no chip. We cut a new one to match your lock.
Chip (transponder) keys
Most cars from the last couple of decades have a small chip in the key head that talks to the car. Cutting the blade isn't enough. The new key also has to be programmed to your car, or it'll open the door but won't start the engine.
Laser-cut keys
These have a groove cut down the middle of the blade instead of teeth on the edge. They need special cutting equipment and often have a chip too.
Smart keys and push-to-start fobs
These stay in your pocket while you unlock and start the car. Replacing one means getting the right fob and programming it to your car.
If your key works fine but the remote buttons don't, head to our Key Fob Replacement page instead.
What to Have Ready
Your car details
- Year, make and model (trim too, if you know it)
- The VIN, if we ask for it. It's on your registration, your insurance card, or at the bottom corner of the windshield
- Where the car is parked
- How many keys you still have: a working one, a broken one, or none
Proof it's your car
We won't make a key for a car unless we know it's yours or you're allowed to drive it. Have your photo ID and your registration or title handy. It protects you, because it means nobody else can get a key to your car that way either. We need a valid photo ID, such as a Florida driver license, state ID or passport, plus your vehicle registration or title showing the car is yours or that you're allowed to drive it. For a company or rental car, we need something showing you're authorized to use it. If the paperwork is locked in the car or you can't find it, call us and we'll tell you what else we can use.
Anything else you've noticed
Tell us about any warning lights on the dash, security or immobilizer messages, or trouble with a previous key. It helps us bring the right equipment.
How It Works on Site
-
We check ownership.
We look at your ID and registration before we start.
-
We figure out the key.
Using your car details and any old key, we work out exactly what you need.
-
We cut the key
if your car uses a key blade.
-
We program it
if your car needs it.
-
You test it with us.
Doors, trunk, ignition, and the remote buttons if it has them. We don't leave until it works.
What Affects the Price
We'd rather give you a real quote for your car than a vague range, but here's what moves the number:
- Key type. A plain metal key costs less than a chip key, and a smart key costs more again.
- Whether you still have a key. Making a copy from a working key is simpler than starting from scratch.
- Your car. Some makes and model years need special equipment or more time.
- Time of day. We're open 7 AM to 10 PM, every day, and weekends are priced the same as weekdays. We'll tell you the price before we head out.
- Distance. Lake Worth Beach and nearby areas like Lantana, Palm Springs and Greenacres are short runs for us. A travel charge may apply for longer drives, such as Delray Beach or Boca Raton. We'll include any travel charge in the total we quote you.
Before we head out, we'll give you a total that covers the key, cutting, programming and travel.
Locksmith or Dealership?
When we're the better choice
For most cars, a mobile locksmith is the easier route. We come to you, so you skip the tow and the wait for a service appointment.
When the dealer is the better choice
Some newer cars need programming that only the manufacturer can do. If yours is one of them, we'll tell you on the phone rather than send someone out who can't finish the job.
How to compare
Ask both of us:
- Can you do my exact car and key?
- Does the car need to be towed?
- How soon, and how long will it take?
- What's the full price, including parts, programming, and towing or travel?
Neither one is always cheaper or faster. Get a quote from each and compare.
Car Key Replacement FAQs
Can you make a key if I've lost the original?
For many cars, yes. It depends on your car's key and security system. You'll need to prove the car is yours. Call with the year, make and model and we'll tell you whether we can do it.
Can I get a new key today?
Often, yes. It depends on where you are, whether we have the right key blank on hand, and what your car needs. Call and we'll give you an honest answer and a time.
Will the new key work with my remote start?
If your car has factory remote start, it usually can, but check with us first. Some cars use an add-on remote start system that works separately. Ask us to confirm it's included in your quote.
Do I need to tow my car?
Usually not. We come to your car and do the work where it's parked. The exception is the small number of cars that need dealer-only programming, and we'll tell you up front if yours is one of them.
Get a Replacement Car Key
Call or text us with your car's year, make and model and where it's parked. We'll tell you what you need and what it costs before we come out.
Call:
(728) 235-4027
Text:
[text number]
Based in: Lake Worth Beach,
FL
Serving: Palm Beach County
Other car services
- Automotive locksmith services: other car key and lock problems
- Key fob replacement: remote buttons not working
- Emergency locksmith: lost your key and need help fast