Gaucho KeysYes, in most cases a locksmith can make a new car key even when you've lost every key you had. I don't need an existing key to copy. I can make one from scratch, including the chip and remote, as long as I can confirm the car is yours.
How it's possible without a key to copy
A lot of people assume you need at least one working key for a locksmith to make another. That's true for a simple duplicate, but it's not the only way. When all keys are gone, I generate a new key for the vehicle and program it so the car recognizes it. The result is a fully working key, not a copy of something you already had.
Does this work for chip and remote keys?
For most makes and models from 2000 and newer, yes. Whether your car uses a basic transponder key, a flip key, or a push-to-start fob, programming a fresh key is part of the job. Because the programming side varies a lot between vehicles, I'll quote that part once I know exactly what you're driving, so tell me your year, make and model.
What it costs
Making a key when all of them are lost falls under lost car key replacement, which starts from $200. If your vehicle needs chip or remote programming, that depends on the specific car, so you'll get a price up front. You only pay once the new key works, and the price is agreed before I start, with no hidden fees.
What I need to confirm first
Since I'm creating a key that will start your car, I always confirm ownership before doing any work. It's our standard procedure to keep everything legitimate.
- Vehicle registration for the car
- Matching photo ID
- Your year, make and model
- The car's location so I can come to it
You don't have to move the car
This is where a mobile service really helps. With all keys lost, the car can't be driven anywhere, and going through a dealership usually means a tow and a wait. I come to wherever the car is parked, at home, at work, or on the roadside anywhere in Winnipeg and the surrounding area, and make the key there.
When it's done, you can pay by Visa, Mastercard, Interac e-Transfer, or cash, whatever suits you.
Frequently asked questions
- Can a locksmith make a key with no existing key at all?
- Yes. I don't need a key to copy. I can generate and program a new key from scratch for most makes and models from 2000 and newer, as long as I can confirm the car is yours.
- Will the new key work with push-to-start or a remote?
- In most cases, yes. Programming the chip and remote is part of the job. Because it varies by vehicle, tell me your year, make and model and I'll confirm and quote that part up front.
- What does it cost to replace all lost keys?
- It falls under lost car key replacement, starting from $200, plus programming that depends on your specific vehicle. You get the price up front and only pay once the key works.
Need a car key, fob or lockout in Winnipeg?
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