Losing your only car key is a special kind of stressful. No spare, no way to move the car, and a lot of conflicting advice online. Here’s what actually happens next.
First: is it really your only key?
Check the obvious places twice: jacket pockets, bags, the last place you parked. Ask anyone who might have a spare. A spare in a drawer at home changes everything.
What decides whether a new key can be made on the spot
It depends on your car’s model, year, and security system. Older cars often use a simple metal key. Most newer cars use keys with a chip that has to be programmed to the car, and some use push-to-start smart keys. Some keys need specialized equipment, and some vehicles can’t be done outside a dealer.
We can make new keys on site for many vehicles.
What to have ready when you call
- Make, model, and year of the car
- Where the car is parked right now
- Proof the car is yours, like ID that matches the registration
With that, a locksmith can tell you on the phone whether your key can be made on site and what it will cost.
Dealer or mobile locksmith?
A dealer usually needs the car brought to them, which can mean a tow when you have no key. A mobile locksmith comes to wherever the car is.
Make a spare before you need it
The cheapest car key is the spare you make before you lose the last one. If you’re down to one key, it’s worth doing now.
More on our car locksmith page.
Need a locksmith now? Call (213) 545-6740. Car lockouts and new keys, 24/7. We typically arrive within 20–30 minutes anywhere in a 20-mile radius of Downtown Los Angeles.