Gaucho KeysFor many vehicles, a mobile locksmith can cut and program a new car key in well under an hour once on site. The exact time depends on your vehicle and the type of key, but you're usually looking at the same visit rather than days of waiting.
What actually takes the time
Making a car key is really two jobs: cutting the physical key so it fits the lock and ignition, and programming the electronics so the car accepts it. Cutting is quick. Programming is where the time varies, because some vehicles accept a new key in minutes while others need a longer procedure.
What affects how long yours takes
- The type of key: a basic key is faster than a chip key or push-to-start fob
- Your specific make, model and year
- Whether it's a spare or a key made because all keys are lost
- How quickly we confirm the vehicle is yours when I arrive
Because of all that, the honest answer is that it's quick for most cars but I won't pin down an exact figure for yours until I know what it is. Tell me your year, make and model and I'll give you a realistic idea along with the price.
Spare keys vs lost keys
A spare or duplicate key, where you still have a working key, is generally the quickest scenario. Making a key when all keys are lost can take a bit longer because there's more involved in getting the car to accept a brand-new key, but it's still typically a single visit.
Why a mobile service saves you the most time
The biggest time saver isn't the cutting or programming, it's skipping the trip. With a dealership you may need to tow the car in, then wait or leave it for the day. I come to your home, work, or the roadside anywhere in Winnipeg and the surrounding area, so the clock starts when I arrive at your car, not when you find time to get it somewhere.
How to make it go faster
You can help speed things along by having your vehicle registration and matching photo ID ready when I arrive, since I confirm the car is yours before starting as our standard procedure. Knowing your year, make and model ahead of time also lets me show up prepared with the right key.
When the key's done and working, you pay then, by Visa, Mastercard, Interac e-Transfer, or cash, with the price agreed up front.
Frequently asked questions
- How long does it take to make a new car key?
- For many vehicles it's well under an hour on site. The time mainly depends on the key type and your specific vehicle, so tell me your year, make and model for a realistic estimate.
- Is a spare key faster than replacing a lost key?
- Usually, yes. A spare made from a working key is generally the quickest. Making a key when all keys are lost can take a bit longer but is still typically done in one visit.
- Can you do it at my home or work?
- Yes. I'm mobile and come to wherever the car is in Winnipeg and the surrounding area, so you skip the tow and the wait. The work happens right at your vehicle.
Need a car key, fob or lockout in Winnipeg?
Mobile auto locksmith — we come to you, 7 days a week.