Automotive Locksmithing 101: Spare Keys, Lost Keys & Fob Fixes: Learn when to duplicate, reprogram, or replace your car key/fob. Save money vs. the dealer, avoid emergencies, and spot battery or chip issues early.

Why a Spare Key Isn’t Optional

If your household shares cars—or you’ve got only one working key—you’re rolling the dice. A spare key or fob:

  • Prevents emergencies: No tow, no dealer appointment, no missed work.

  • Controls cost: Duplicates are a fraction of “all keys lost” (AKL) recovery.

  • Boosts resale: Vehicles with two working keys are easier to sell.

Duplicate vs. “All Keys Lost” (AKL): What’s the Difference?

Duplicate (you have at least one working key):

  • We cut/program from your working key or clone its transponder data.

  • Fast, affordable, usually while-you-wait.

All Keys Lost (AKL) (no working key exists):

  • We verify ownership, cut by code or decode the lock, and program the vehicle to accept new keys/fobs.

  • Takes longer, costs more due to security and programming steps.

Pro tip: Make your duplicate now, not after a lockout.

How Key & Fob Duplication Works (Plain English)

  1. Identify & verify: Year/make/model/VIN and proof of ownership when required.

  2. Cutting: We either copy an existing key or cut by code to factory spec.

  3. Programming: Program the remote functions and start authorization.

  4. Transponder keys: Pair the chip to your car’s immobilizer.

  5. Testing: Door lock/unlock, trunk, panic, and engine start test.

Time: Often 15–30 minutes for duplicates; AKL varies by vehicle.

What We Cover (Most Common)

  • Traditional metal keys, transponder (chipped) keys, switchblade/flip keys

  • Remote head keys, proximity/push-to-start fobs

  • Many domestic & import makes (bring year/make/model; we’ll confirm stock)

Not sure what you have? Snap a photo of your key/fob and DM it—easy.

Dealer vs. Local Locksmith: What’s the Difference?

Same function, lower hassle. We source OEM or high-quality parts and use professional programmers—without the dealership overhead or week-out appointments. You get:

  • Faster turnaround (often same day)

  • Transparent pricing

  • Walk-in convenience

OEM vs. Aftermarket: What’s Reliable?

  • We stock OEM and vetted aftermarket options.

  • The deciding factors are compatibility, chip type, and reliability, not the logo on the plastic.

  • If your model truly requires OEM, we’ll tell you straight up.

Battery & Range Issues: Fix the Simple Stuff First

Many “dead fob” problems are just a weak coin cell battery.

Symptoms of a weak fob battery:

  • Short range / intermittent locks

  • Push-to-start needs multiple presses

  • Dashboard “Key Not Detected” messages

Troubleshooting Checklist (Save This!)

  • Try your backup fob/key (if you have one)

  • Replace the fob battery

  • Check for water damage or cracked housings

  • Try starting the car with the fob held near the start button (many cars have an emergency coil)

  • If still failing: bring it in—likely programming or chip.

Security & Ownership: What We’ll Ask For

To protect everyone, some services require proof of ownership (ID + registration/insurance). For certain anti-theft systems, your VIN helps us confirm the correct part/programming path.

What to Bring to the Shop

  • Current working key/fob (if duplicating)

  • Year/Make/Model (photo of VIN helps)

  • ID (and registration/insurance for AKL)

FAQs

Q: Can you program push-to-start/proximity fobs?

A: For many vehicles, yes. We’ll confirm by YMM and stock.

Q: My key starts the car but the buttons don’t work—why?

A: Buttons are remote functions; the transponder chip is separate. You may need remote pairing or a new shell/board if damaged.

Q: I bought a fob online—can you program it?

A: Sometimes. Online parts are hit-or-miss. We’ll test it; if it fails, our in-stock option saves time.

Q: Will a duplicate deactivate my old key?

A: No. A duplicate simply adds another authorized key. During AKL, we can delete lost keys from the car’s memory.

Q: How long does it take?

A: Duplicates are often 15–30 minutes. AKL depends on model/security—plan extra time.

Pricing Guidance (Why It Varies)

Pricing depends on key type (metal vs transponder vs proximity), parts availability, and programming complexity.

  • Duplicate: least expensive route.

  • AKL: more time + security steps → higher.

  • Battery/shell fixes: often the cheapest fix.

We’ll quote before we start and advise the most cost-effective option.

Ready When You Are

📍 Pro Lock Plus — 570 Sandridge Rd, Suite 1, Hubert, NC

📞 910-939-2760 • 💻 www.ProLockPlus.com