How Long Does It Take to Replace Lost Car Keys?

Most drivers have been there at least once. Whether it's a result of a hole in a pocket or a simple case of misplacement, the need to replace lost car keys arises. Can you complete this troublesome process quickly and easily?

Lost Car Keys: First Steps

Gather as much information about the key and the vehicle as possible. Assess what type of key your vehicle uses and jot down the year, make, and model of your vehicle. The VIN number, registration, and title might prove useful as well.

How Long to Replace Lost Car Keys?

Basic Car Keys

The traditional key is the easiest type of key to replace. The process is as simple as contacting a locksmith, who may meet you at your location, and having the professional make a new key. If the vehicle is older, the key may be readily available without the need for making it. Therefore, you could have your key in an hour or less.

More modern keys may have a key fob attached that enables you to press buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle. If just this part of the key goes missing, operation of the vehicle is still possible. You'll simply need to order a key fob, which will take the amount of time needed to ship the fob to your location. The fob may need to be programmed, but this step should take little additional time with the help of a pro.

Transponder Keys

Automobiles made in the 1990s and later often have an embedded transponder chip that uniquely links the key to the vehicle. Without this key, you cannot start the car. The key must be programmed so that it links with the auto's ignition system. Replacing these keys is more time-consuming. First, you will need to get a replica key. Then, it will need to be programmed via a special machine. If all equipment is available, a key can be replaced within a day or two.  

Laser-cut keys (which are notable for their fewer grooves) are a particular type of transponder key that will require more specialized machines and, therefore, longer possible wait times for a replacement. Likewise, many manufacturers have smart or intelligent key systems that are proximity-based and easily unlock and start your vehicle with little or no effort. These systems are the most complex and specific, so if you need to replace a component of them, it will take the most time.  

Method of Replacement

Both dealerships and locksmiths can replace car keys. While smart keys may require some dealership involvement, a locksmith business will usually have the equipment and expertise for quick and reliable car key replacement, key cutting, and key duplication. Dealerships tend to be much more expensive, as well, especially when a locksmith business routinely deals with modernized keys.

In addition, you'll often lose time if your vehicle needs to be towed to a dealership, if you need service outside of business hours, and if you must go through various personnel to have your concern addressed. Even if you need the assistance of a dealership for programming, you can order various manufacturer keys from a locksmith and have them delivered within days or a couple of weeks. Then, the dealership can program the key.

Depending on the type of key and the service used, a lost car key can be replaced anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks. Professional assistance can make this process speedier, simpler, and cost-efficient.