How to get a replacement key without the original?

If your key has suddenly grown legs and walked away, how do you get a replacement key when the original is missing or is it just not possible? First thing, have you checked all possible locations that the key could be at? Retracing your steps solves 90% of missing key cases, according to our sources. If a key has become damaged or broken, sometimes a repair can be made depending on the type of key and for what kind of vehicle. But if the circuit board is corroded from water damage, it will need to be replaced.

So how do you get a replacement key without the original?

Contacting a locksmith in your area who has a good reputation with your neighbors or friends is a helpful way to finding someone who is experienced and can assist you. It does help to have a working key, but it is not a requirement. Although cheaper to get a spare key, when its lost, it becomes much more expensive due to the extra labor involved which includes unlocking the vehicle and originating the key data and codes needed to cut and program a replacement key or fob.

What information is required to get a key replaced when the original is lost?

If all keys are lost to the vehicle, the owner will need to verify their ID and registration with the locksmith who is making the key for them. This prevents auto theft from occurring and giving the wrong person a set of keys. The locksmith may need to scan your documents and keep them for his record, depending on the laws of the state.

Which vehicles can a locksmith not make a key to when it is missing?

There are only a select few vehicles that a locksmith cannot touch, this includes any European vehicles including the Mercedes that are made past 2014 due to the system change from FBS3 to FBS4. No matter if you have a working key or not. Until a quantum chip programmer is invented, it remains impossible and needs to be sent to the dealership for them to order a key and program it for you with Xentry software.

Any new BMW G-Series vehicles that use the BDC3 immobilizer system require BMW ISTA to program AKL fobs, however, if there is a working key, a key technician may be able to copy the data off the fob and clone it into another blank key so that it works.

Porches and Volvo's require OEM programming that only a certified locksmith will have the correct credentials to perform the needed work and are costly and inefficient to do because of the lack of communication with the vehicle. They are best to be sent to a dealer for a key replacement.

How is a key made without an original?

Depending on the vehicle it may require OEM programming that only a locksmith with dealer credentials can access to program a new key and cut it accordingly to match the ignition and door lock onsite. A locksmith will have all the necessary equipment and correct keys needed to perform his or her job.

If you're in Ohio and need a to get a key made but lack the original key give us a call at (614) 787-4124 for getting help with a replacement