Car Key Replacement Austin Texas Okey DoKey Locksmith

Lost your car key? Need a duplicate key? Okey DoKey Locksmith offers fast, convenient, and affordable mobile car key replacement services. Our licensed technicians can come to your location and provide onsite key replacement, ensuring you’re back on the road in no time.

Whether you've lost your keys or need a spare, our mobile service is fully equipped to cut and program keys for any vehicle, saving you a trip to the dealership. Trust our experienced team for quick and reliable service at a price that won’t break the bank.

Mobile Car Key Replacement Service

Our technician arrive to your location with a mobile van fully equipped with high-security tools, laser cut key machines, and blank keys for all vehicle types. Our onsite key-cutting and programming service ensures you get a new key fast, including high-security and laser cut keys and remote fobs, wherever you are.

How Does It Work?

1. Initial Contact: You contact our office, providing details such as your car’s make, model and year. Our agent confirms the availability of the key replacement service and gives you an estimate and ETA.
2. Technician Arrival: Our locksmith arrives at your location with the necessary equipment to cut and program your new car key. He will verify your ownership using the VIN and proof of ownership documents.
3. Key Cutting and Programming: Our locksmith cuts the key to match your vehicle’s lock and programs it to sync with your car’s immobilizer system. This process ensures the new key works seamlessly with your vehicle.
4. Final Testing: Once the key is programmed, our locksmith tests the key to make sure it starts the vehicle and operates the locks correctly before finalizing the service.

The process of making car keys involved with the following three main parts:

Cutting Car Keys

When you've lost your traditional metal car key or high security laser cut key (sidewinder) like Hyundai and Kia our licensed locksmith can help by using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The VIN allows the locksmith to access the car manufacturer’s key code database. With this information, they can cut a new key that perfectly matches your vehicle’s original locks.

The process typically involves verifying your ownership of the car through documents like the vehicle registration and identification. Once the VIN is provided, the locksmith retrieves the specific key code and cuts a new metal key on-site, which works seamlessly with your car's ignition and locks. The cost to replace a traditional metal key typically ranges from $50 to $150, depending on the vehicle’s make and model.

What If the Ignition Was Replaced?

If the ignition was replaced before and no longer matches the original VIN, the locksmith will need to either rekey the ignition to match the key or replace the ignition system entirely. In such cases, simply using the VIN may not work because the key code might not sync with the replaced ignition. If the ignition needs to be rekeyed or replaced, the price could go up to $200 or more, depending on the complexity of the work.

Transponder Key Programming

Transponder keys are advanced car keys with a small chip inside, designed to prevent vehicle theft by communicating with the car’s immobilizer system. When you insert the key into the ignition, the chip sends a unique signal to the car’s computer, allowing the vehicle to start. Transponder keys are used by popular car brands like Ford, Toyota and Chevrolet, among others. Latest vehicle might have keys with no metal blades like key fob on Jeep, Dodge and Chrysler and sometimes even Nissan and Infiniti as well as smart keys on luxury vehicles use wireless chip transponders and also need to be sunced with the vehicle computer.

If you lose a transponder key, a licensed locksmith can replace it using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). After verifying your ownership, the locksmith retrieves the key code from the vehicle manufacturer’s database. Once the key is cut, the locksmith will then reprogram the car’s computer to sync with the new transponder key. This process ensures that the old key is deactivated, so it can no longer start the vehicle, enhancing your car's security. Pricing for transponder key replacement generally ranges from $150 to $300, depending on the make and model of the vehicle.

ECU Reflash

Car ECU reflash is a process where the vehicle’s engine control unit (ECU) is reset to accept a new key and reject the old one. This is often required when you’ve lost all the keys and need to program a new key for cars like old Honda, Acura, Toyota and Lexus, which do not have a simple interface for key programming. When keys are lost, these vehicles require an ECU reflash to ensure the security of the system.

During this process, our locksmith uses specialized tools to reprogram the ECU to recognize the new transponder key. This ensures that any old keys will no longer start the vehicle, protecting against unauthorized use. If the ignition has been replaced or tampered with before, this process becomes more critical as syncing the new key might otherwise be impossible without a proper ECU reflash. The process varies in pricing depending on the complexity but generally ranges from $300 to $600, depending on the make and model.

Duplicate And Remote Programming

Car key duplication is essential for anyone who wants to have a spare key in case of emergencies or simply to avoid the hassle of being locked out. There are three main options for duplicating car keys: buying pre-cut keys online and programming them yourself, visiting a dealership or locksmith store, or using the convenience of a mobile locksmith. Each option has its own advantages, depending on your needs and the type of key your vehicle uses.

1. Buying Pre-Cut Keys Online and DIY Programming

If you're looking for a cost-effective way to duplicate your car keys, buying pre-cut keys online is a great option for some vehicles. Many online stores offer pre-cut keys that match the specifications of your vehicle. Once you receive the key, you'll need to program it to your car's immobilizer system. This usually requires following a specific set of instructions found in your vehicle’s manual or by watching online tutorials.

While this option can save you money, it does require a certain level of technical skill and access to the right equipment. Not all vehicles support DIY programming, especially newer models with advanced key systems, so be sure to check compatibility before purchasing.

For vehicles with no interface to program keys (like Jaguar, Audi, Volvo, Volkswagen, BMW and Mercedes-Benz) you can atill buy pre-cut keys online and use a locksmith to program the transponder with a dedicated programming tools. Before you buy the key, the price to program keys is between $65 to $195 depends on the make model and year.

2. Duplicating Keys at the Dealer or a Locksmith Store

The most reliable and straightforward way to duplicate your car key is by visiting a dealership or a locksmith store. Dealerships and locksmiths have the professional-grade equipment to cut and program keys accurately. This is particularly useful for laser-cut keys, transponder keys, and smart keys that require specialized tools.

Dealerships often charge a premium for this service, but you can get a key made and programmed within a short amount of time. Locksmith stores offer a similar service but are usually more affordable than dealerships. Locksmiths are also more likely to offer services for older or rare car models.

3. Using a Mobile Locksmith

If convenience is your priority, our mobile locksmith services are an excellent option. Our mobile locksmiths come to your location and can duplicate keys on-site. We have the equipment to duplicate most types of car keys, including transponder keys, laser-cut keys, key fob and smart keys.

Broken Keys? Here's What To Do!

Recovering from a broken car key can be a stressful experience, especially if it got broken or sink wet. Fortunately, our key replacement service can make the process convenient and fast. If the chip in your key is still intact, we can duplicate the key by copying the electronic code, saving you time and effort. However, if the chip in the key is damaged, we might need to recover the vehicle as if the key was lost and reprogram the computer to recognize a new key.

If the key broke off in the ignition, it may require professional extraction service. We can repair ignition damage caused by the broken key during extraction, ensuring your vehicle is back in working order as soon as possible.

Dealer vs. Locksmith? Find Out Who Can Replace Your Key Faster!

When it comes to car key replacement, many people wonder whether to go to a dealership or call a locksmith. Dealerships tend to charge significantly more for the same service and often require you to tow your car to their location. On the other hand, a locksmith like Okey DoKey can come to you, saving both time and money. We offer the same quality service at a fraction of the cost, with the added benefit of on-site repairs and replacements.

Why Choose Okey DoKey Locksmith?

When it comes to car key replacement and automotive locksmith services, Okey DoKey Locksmith is your trusted choice. We are the best-rated locksmith in town, recognized by the Better Business Bureau, Google Map, Yelp, and HomeAdvisor. With more than 10 years of experience, we specialize in working with a wide range of car manufacturers in addition to those mention abouve like Isuzu, Subaru, Saturn, GMC, Pontiac, Mercury, Cadillac, Mitsubishi, Buick, Mazda, Scion and more.

Our expertise goes beyond car keys – we handle locks and ignition services as well. We offer competitive pricing with upfront estimates, ensuring no hidden fees. Plus, we are licensed, bonded, and insured, providing you peace of mind.

Our state-of-the-art programming and diagnostic tools ensure that your keys are made accurately and efficiently. We also offer fast response, same-day mobile service, meaning you won’t be left stranded for long. On top of all that, we provide a 6-month warranty on all parts and labor, guaranteeing the quality of our work.

Trust Okey DoKey Locksmith for fast, professional, and reliable service.

Car Key Replacement Cost

Car key replacement cost with a mobile locksmith can vary depending on the type of key and the complexity of the service required. Whether you’ve lost all your keys or need a duplicate, a mobile locksmith can come to your location and handle the process onsite, saving you time and effort. Prices can range depending on the make, model, and condition of your vehicle’s locks and ignition system.

The following table provides an estimate of the costs involved for different services. Keep in mind that these prices are approximate, and the final cost will be provided by the technician onsite after assessing your vehicle:

Please note that these prices are estimates. The condition of your locks and ignition may affect the final cost. Our technician will diagnose your vehicle and provide an accurate price before starting the job.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if I lose my car keys? Call a locksmith like Okey DoKey Locksmith for quick car key replacement services. We can make a new key even if you don’t have the original.
2. Can you program a key fob? Yes, we can replace and program key fobs for most makes and models.
3. What is a transponder key? A transponder key contains a chip that communicates with your vehicle’s ECU to prevent theft.
4. How long does it take to make a new car key? It typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on the key type.
5. Do I need my original key to get a replacement? No, we can make a new key using your vehicle’s VIN.
6. Do you offer 24/7 service? Yes, Okey DoKey Locksmith provides 24/7 emergency services in Austin, Texas.
7. How can I avoid losing my car keys? Consider having a duplicate key made and using a key tracking device.
8. Can you make a key for my car if it’s a push-start? Yes, we can replace key fobs and program them for push-start vehicles.
9. Is it cheaper to get a key made by a locksmith or a dealer? It’s typically cheaper to have a locksmith make your key, and we come to you, saving you time and hassle.

Conclusion

When it comes to car key replacement in Austin, Texas, Okey DoKey Locksmith is the trusted choice for fast, reliable, and affordable service. Whether you’ve lost your keys, broken them in the ignition, or need a new key fob, our mobile team is ready to help. With years of experience and state-of-the-art equipment, we’ll get you back on the road quickly and stress-free.

References

• Car key replacement - Edmonds.
• How to Replace Your Car's Key Fob - Consumer Reports
• Car lockout
• Ignition repair