3 Ways To Replace Car Keys - WikiHow

Home » How To Get A Key Made For A Car » 3 Ways To Replace Car Keys - WikiHow

Maybe your like

Skip to ContentQuizzes
  • Home
  • Random
  • Browse Articles
  • Quizzes & Games
  • All QuizzesHot
  • Love Quizzes
  • Personality Quizzes
  • Fun Games
  • Dating Simulator
  • Learn Something New
  • Forums
  • Courses
  • Happiness Hub
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Replace Car Keys PDF download Download Article Co-authored by Audra Fordin

Last Updated: February 24, 2025 Approved

PDF download Download Article
  • Replacing an Older Car Key
    • |
  • Replacing a New Electronic Car Key
    • |
  • Replacing a Malfunctioning Electric Key
    • |
  • How Do You Replace Car Keys?
    • |
  • Q&A
    • |
  • Tips
|Show more |Show less X

This article was co-authored by Audra Fordin. Audra Fordin is a Certified Automotive Technician, the Founder of Women Auto Know, and the Owner of Great Bear Auto Repair in Flushing, New York. With more than 38 years of experience, she has intensive knowledge about foreign and domestic auto repairs. Audra has been featured on numerous news and talk shows such as The Today Show, Inside Edition, and Anderson Cooper. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article has 16 testimonials from our readers, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 2,139,619 times.

You never realize how valuable your car keys really are until you lose them or they stop working. They’re your ticket to mobility and if they aren’t around, you’re stuck. Luckily if you find yourself in a bind there are plenty of ways to replace a misplaced or malfunctioning car key. Unfortunately, replacing car keys can also be really expensive in some cases – but not all!

Steps

Method 1 Method 1 of 3:

Replacing an Older Car Key

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Write down you car's VIN number. 1 Write down you car's VIN number. This will be necessary in finding someone who will help you replace the key. In most cars, the VIN is located on the driver’s side dashboard and is visible through the window, but it may also be located on a rear wheel well or the front of the engine block, in the trunk or door jam, or on the frame of the car between the carburetor and windshield washer.
    • If you’re not sure where your VIN is on your vehicle you can also look up the number on your car insurance information. It should be in the top left hand corner of each page.
    • A VIN is a 17-digit letter/number. The letters I, O and Q are not in VIN numbers to avoid confusion with numbers 1 and 0. This only works after 1981. Before 1954 there were no VIN numbers.
  2. Step 2 Write down the year, make, and model of your vehicle. 2 Write down the year, make, and model of your vehicle. Regardless of which option you pursue to get a new set of car keys you're going to need to find out this information. This information will let you know the specific kind of key that you need to open your vehicle. Remember, keys are supposed to be unique! Advertisement
  3. Step 3 Call a nearby auto locksmith. 3 Call a nearby auto locksmith. This should be your first option. They generally will give you the best deal on a new key, about half as much as it would cost to get a new key from your manufacturer or dealer. Normally they don’t charge to visit the car either. They’ll open your car and then proceed to make you a new key. While hardware stores aren’t generally equipped to create new car keys (as opposed to simply copying them), locksmiths usually have more sophisticated machinery. The older your vehicle, the better the odds that a locksmith will be able to help you with a replacement key.
    • If you lost a key fob, a good locksmith may be able to help you make a new one – depending on how sophisticated the key was. Additionally, they should be able to help you reprogram the replacement key, though your manual may also have instructions on how to do that. Be sure to bring any other key fobs associated with that vehicle with you, as they sometimes won’t work until the new key is programmed. Some cars require specialized equipment to program keys that locksmiths and dealers have. [1]
    Recover from betrayal and save money. "A so-called friend stole my only car key, leaving me stranded. This guide outlined affordable options to replace it. Following the advice to visit a locksmith saved me $30-40 over the dealership. I'm back on the road thanks to wikiHow, without breaking the bank." - Annie H. Find the perfect option for an older model. "My vintage car has separate keys for ignition, trunk, and door locks. Losing the main key left me confused about replacement. This overview explained the most logical choice is getting a basic key cut by my local locksmith. Now I can drive my classic car again!" - Thomas Z. Gain expert coaching on complex key programming. "As an amateur mechanic, I was eager to learn more about programming high-tech smart keys. The clear instructions here served as an invaluable coaching guide. I gained so much practical knowledge for tinkering with modern keys." - Ryan A. Discover an essential tip through everyday learning. "I never realized a replacement key could be made from the VIN! Stumbling on that nugget while reading taught me something new and valuable. Now I know what to do if I ever misplace my keys. wikiHow helps me learn life hacks." - Sandi C. Did you know that wikiHow has collected over 365,000 reader stories since it started in 2005? We’d love to hear from you! Share your story here.
  4. Step 4 Look for discounted replacement keys / key fobs online. 4 Look for discounted replacement keys / key fobs online. After market keys or even factory replacements can sometimes be found online for less than it would cost you to get them direct from the manufacturer. You may have success with a reputable dealer on eBay, but otherwise look for companies intended specifically to replace car keys. Again, the older the vehicle and simpler the key, the easier it will be to replace. Amazon is a good place to start. Although be aware some cars require specialized equipment to cut and program. Call around to see who would be willing to cut and program a key bought online before you purchase one. Also compare programming charges with the cost of a whole new one from the locksmith.
    5. Advertisement
Method 2 Method 2 of 3:

Replacing a New Electronic Car Key

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Check to see if key replacement is covered by your warranty or car insurance. 1 Check to see if key replacement is covered by your warranty or car insurance. If you have a very new or high-end vehicle the key might not be replaced by anyone but the manufacturer or distributor. In this case, you may be able to get a discount through your warranty. Bring all your car’s information, a valid photo ID, and any other sets of keys you may have to the dealership. Hope for the best!
  2. Step 2 Visit your local locksmith. 2 Visit your local locksmith. Depending on the sophistication of your car key you may be able to have a new electronic key programmed by a locksmith. Many new car keys have a microchip in them to prevent duplication. However, if you have a key with a transponder in it you can probably get a new one at a locksmith for $50.00 - $120.00 depending on your car and your area.. Manufacturers started using transponders in the 1990s – they are chips in the head of the key that communicate with the car. If the wrong key is in the ignition, the car will not start. Transponder keys are available at locksmiths,[2]
  3. Step 3 Buy an aftermarket replacement car key. 3 Buy an aftermarket replacement car key. Search for ‘aftermarket electronic car keys’ on the Internet and you’ll find plenty of options for replacement electronic car keys. Oftentimes you’ll be able to get a new car key for 75 % less than what the dealer would charge you. But you still need to get it cut and programmed so be sure to check prices for that in your area before you purchase anything.
  4. Step 4 Get a new set of keys from your dealer. 4 Get a new set of keys from your dealer. This will cost you upwards of $200. [3] However, if you just want a key that you know will work and you want to get it quickly and easily this is not a bad option. Visit your local dealer – if it’s a Honda, go to a Honda dealership, if it's a Ford go to a Ford dealership, etc..
  5. Step 5 Program your new key to your car. 5 Program your new key to your car. Each manufacturer and each car are different on how to do it.[4] Sometimes you can program them to your specific car without a special technician. The instructions are usually included with the new key, but your owner’s manual will be very helpful in this situation. Depending on the car, reprogramming usually involves opening and closing the doors and/or turning lights and other electronics on and off. You press a series of buttons like a code, basically. 
    • Sometimes it has to be done by a technician who will use a computer software to perform the necessary update.[5]
    6. Advertisement
Method 3 Method 3 of 3:

Replacing a Malfunctioning Electric Key

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Wait. 1 Wait. Sometimes extreme heat or cold weather can cause your electric key to stop working properly. Also if you go on a run with your key in hand the sweat can work it’s way in there and cause some issues. Let your key rest for a little while before you pay money to replace it. It might come back to life.
  2. Step 2 Reset all your keys. 2 Reset all your keys. A key fob may stop working properly after a change or repair to your car’s electrical systems (such as replacing the battery, for example). Find the owner’s manual for your particular car (or hunt one down online) and reset all the keys according to the instructions provided.
  3. Step 3 Replace the battery. 3 Replace the battery. If you notice your key working poorly over the span of a few days it might be the battery dying. A replacement battery for a key fob is usually inexpensive and can be found online, at an auto-locksmith or electronics store. Make sure you have the make, model, year, and VIN number of the car. Most batteries should be simple enough for you to replace yourself. You unscrew the Philips screw at the back of the key, remove the old battery, and put the new one in. Voila! [6]
    • You can also go straight to the dealer or manufacturer, but this may be more expensive, especially if they charge for labor when they install the new battery. Check your car’s warranty to see if battery replacement is covered.
  4. Step 4 Reprogram the key. 4 Reprogram the key. If you don’t want to do this yourself, you can get help from some locksmiths or even the car’s dealership, but the simplest solution is usually to follow the instructions provided in your owner’s manual. Normally the reset involves pressing a series of buttons in a certain order but it’s different for every car. [7] Check your owners manual.
    5. Advertisement

How Do You Replace Car Keys?

Community Q&A

Search Add New Question
  • Question How do I find the least expensive place to get a spare key made for my car? Glenn Letteer Glenn Letteer Community Answer You will be tempted to purchase a cheap key from the internet, but you are taking a huge risk. There is about a 50/50 chance the key you purchase will either not work or won't be able to be programmed to your vehicle. Call around to your local locksmiths. One of them will offer you a key at a fair price. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 18 Helpful 45
  • Question How can I have a key made to get into my ex's car to get my own keys out of it? Community Answer Community Answer You would have to get your ex's key and either just use it to open the car or get a copy of it made. Or you can try asking your ex if you can get your keys? Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 27 Helpful 50
  • Question I dropped the upper part of my mx5 Miata key; when I put it back, the car doesn't start. Could something have fallen or broken off? Community Answer Community Answer It depends on if your car has an immobilizer. If it does, then it is possible that the chip contained in the key has failed or malfunctioned, and the immobilizer is refusing the signal or lack thereof. If this is the case, you will likely have to get a replacement from Mazda. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 8 Helpful 17
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Tips

  • Only get a new key from the dealer as a last resort. It will be at least twice as expensive as other options. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Always read your owners manual on how to reprogram the keys of your specific car. Don’t try to guess. Some cars do not list it in the owners manual but you can get it from the seller of the remote or online. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Before you buy anything online, be sure you have a way to cut and program it. Some remotes you can program yourself. Others have to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. So call ahead. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Show More Tips Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

You Might Also Like

What to Do if You Lose Your Car KeysWhat to Do If You Lost Your Car Keys and Don’t Have a Spare Program a Car KeyA Detailed Guide to Programming Car Keys & Fobs Replace the Battery in a Key FobHow to Change a Battery in a Car Key Fob Copy a Key FobHow to Copy or Replace a Key Fob Change a Mercedes Key BatteryHow to Replace the Batteries in a Mercedes Key Fob Rekey a LockHow to Rekey Locks without Calling a Locksmith Change Battery in Nissan Key FobChanging the Battery in a Nissan Key Fob: Altima, Rogue, & More Copy a KeyHow to Make a Copy of a Key: Simple Duplicating Methods Find Lost Remote Car KeyEasy Ways to Find Your Lost Electronic Car Key or Fob Anti Theft System Won't Let My Car StartWhat to Do If Your Car’s Anti-Theft System Prevents It from Starting Key Stuck in IgnitionWhat to Do if Your Key is Stuck in the Ignition: Best Fixes Program GM Keyless RemotesHow toProgram GM Keyless Remotes Remove a Broken Key from an Ignition LockKey Broke off in the Ignition? Here’s How to Get It Out Replace an Ignition SwitchIgnition Switch Replacement: An Easy-To-Follow Guide Advertisement

References

  1. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/how-to-replace-your-car-key-fob-a4802255222/
  2. ↑ https://www.edmunds.com/car-maintenance/the-high-cost-of-losing-your-keys.html
  3. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/how-to-replace-your-car-key-fob-a4802255222/
  4. ↑ Audra Fordin. Certified Automotive Technician. Expert Interview
  5. ↑ Audra Fordin. Certified Automotive Technician. Expert Interview
  6. ↑ https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Car+Key+Fob+Battery+Replacement/34168
  7. ↑ http://www.programyourkeys.com/Program_Car_Keys_-_Land_Rover.html

About This Article

Audra Fordin Co-authored by: Audra Fordin Certified Automotive Technician This article was co-authored by Audra Fordin. Audra Fordin is a Certified Automotive Technician, the Founder of Women Auto Know, and the Owner of Great Bear Auto Repair in Flushing, New York. With more than 38 years of experience, she has intensive knowledge about foreign and domestic auto repairs. Audra has been featured on numerous news and talk shows such as The Today Show, Inside Edition, and Anderson Cooper. This article has been viewed 2,139,619 times. 14 votes - 74% Co-authors: 40 Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 2,139,619 Categories: Car Maintenance and Repair Article SummaryX

If you need to replace the car key in an older car, write down yar, make, and model of your vehicle. You should also write down the VIN number, which is a 17-digit identifier made up of letters and numbers. You can find by looking through the windshield at the dashboard on the driver’s side, but if you don’t see it there, look on your car insurance information. Call a nearby locksmith or car dealership and give them all of the information about your vehicle, and have them make you a new key. To replace a car key for a newer car, read on! Did this summary help you?YesNo

In other languages Italian Spanish Russian French Arabic Dutch Hindi Indonesian Vietnamese
  • Print
  • Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 2,139,619 times.

Reader Success Stories

  • Annie H.

    Annie H.

    Oct 4, 2016

    "A so-called friend stole my only car key, leaving me stranded. This guide outlined affordable options to replace..." more
More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Audra Fordin Co-authored by: Audra Fordin Certified Automotive Technician 14 votes - 74% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 40 Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 2,139,619 Annie H.

Annie H.

Oct 4, 2016

"A so-called friend stole my only car key, leaving me stranded. This guide outlined affordable options to replace..." more Thomas Z.

Thomas Z.

Dec 14, 2016

"My vintage car has separate keys for ignition, trunk, and door locks. Losing the main key left me confused about..." more Ryan A.

Ryan A.

Jun 27, 2017

"As an amateur mechanic, I was eager to learn more about programming high-tech smart keys. The clear instructions..." more Sandi C.

Sandi C.

Aug 15, 2017

"I never realized a replacement key could be made from the VIN! Stumbling on that nugget while reading taught me..." more Rated this article: Brenda Languren

Brenda Languren

Jul 24, 2017

"Didn't know that with a vin number they could make a new key. Everyday you learn something new!" Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

Quizzes & Games

What Is My Angel Number QuizWhat Is My Angel Number QuizTake QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizDo I Need Therapy QuizDo I Need Therapy QuizTake QuizHow Lucky Am I QuizHow Lucky Am I QuizTake QuizApology Language QuizApology Language QuizTake QuizWhat Should I Do QuizWhat Should I Do QuizTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

What to Do if You Lose Your Car KeysWhat to Do If You Lost Your Car Keys and Don’t Have a SpareProgram a Car KeyA Detailed Guide to Programming Car Keys & FobsReplace the Battery in a Key FobHow to Change a Battery in a Car Key FobCopy a Key FobHow to Copy or Replace a Key Fob

Featured Articles

Remove Shorts from Search Results on YouTubeHow toRemove Shorts from Search Results on YouTubeWhat Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)What Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?115+ Funny “Get Well Soon” Messages to Make Someone Laugh115+ Funny “Get Well Soon” Messages to Make Someone Laugh110+ “Fun Facts” for Interviews, Introductions, & Icebreakers110+ “Fun Facts” for Interviews, Introductions, & IcebreakersHow Long Would You Survive In A Zombie Apocalypse?How Long Would You Survive In A Zombie Apocalypse?

Trending Articles

Am I Chopped QuizAm I Chopped QuizCrush Calculator: Does Your Crush Like You Back?Crush Calculator: Does Your Crush Like You Back?What Does “Eat Zucchini” From KATSEYE Mean?What Does “Eat Zucchini” From KATSEYE Mean?How Rare Is My Birthday QuizHow Rare Is My Birthday QuizAm I a Pick Me Girl QuizAm I a Pick Me Girl QuizWhat Is the I Found a Leaf Relationship Test on TikTok?What Is the I Found a Leaf Relationship Test on TikTok?

Featured Articles

Roast Someone in a Rap Battle (Plus the Best Bars of All Time)How to Roast Someone in a Rap Battle (Plus the Best Bars of All Time)What Turns a Girl On? 31 Things to Try on Your PartnerWhat Turns a Girl On? 31 Things to Try on Your PartnerLove AnalyzerLove AnalyzerSending Your Sweetie a Love Note? Here are 200+ Romantic IdeasSending Your Sweetie a Love Note? Here are 200+ Romantic IdeasExercise Your BrainHow toExercise Your BrainBe a Fun Person to Hang out WithHow toBe a Fun Person to Hang out With

Featured Articles

What Does Your Morning Routine Say About You?What Does Your Morning Routine Say About You?Develop Productive HabitsHow toDevelop Productive HabitsPractice Self CareHow toPractice Self CareWhat Song Matches Your Life Right Now?What Song Matches Your Life Right Now?Will 2026 Be Your Year? Reveal Your FutureWill 2026 Be Your Year? Reveal Your FutureUnderstanding the Most Attractive Face Shapes (& Determining Your Own)Understanding the Most Attractive Face Shapes (& Determining Your Own)

Watch Articles

Iron PantsHow toIron PantsCut LimesHow toCut Limes Make Your Own Comforting Cinnamon TeaHow to Make Your Own Comforting Cinnamon TeaDraw 3D ShapesHow toDraw 3D ShapesMake a Sugar ScrubHow toMake a Sugar Scrub Wear a Scarf: 19 Different StylesHow to Wear a Scarf: 19 Different Styles

Trending Articles

Rank My Attractiveness QuizRank My Attractiveness QuizChildhood Trauma TestChildhood Trauma TestAm I Neurotypical or Neurodivergent QuizAm I Neurotypical or Neurodivergent QuizGuess My Deepest Secret QuizGuess My Deepest Secret QuizWhat's My Personality Based on My Song Choices QuizWhat's My Personality Based on My Song Choices QuizGuess My Age QuizGuess My Age Quiz

Quizzes & Games

Am I Smart QuizAm I Smart QuizTake QuizWhat Crystal Do I Need QuizWhat Crystal Do I Need QuizTake QuizWhat Piercing Should I Get QuizWhat Piercing Should I Get QuizTake QuizHow Will I Die QuizHow Will I Die QuizTake QuizWould I Be a Good Super Spy QuizWould I Be a Good Super Spy QuizTake QuizWhat Tattoo Matches My Personality QuizWhat Tattoo Matches My Personality QuizTake Quiz wikiHow
  • Categories
  • Cars & Other Vehicles
  • Cars
  • Car Maintenance and Repair
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
  • Home
  • About wikiHow
  • Experts
  • Jobs
  • Contact Us
  • Site Map
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info
  • Contribute

Follow Us

×

Don’t miss out! Sign up for

wikiHow’s newsletter

Subscribe You're all set! X --581

Tag » How To Get A Key Made For A Car