How long does it take to make a replacement car key
How long does it take to make a replacement car key?
In most cases, making a replacement car key takes about 30 to 90 minutes once we’re with the vehicle.
The exact time depends on:
Key type (basic transponder, remote/flip key, or smart key)
Whether it’s a spare key or all keys are lost
Vehicle make/model and how the immobiliser programming works
If the battery is flat or there are other vehicle faults
Typical timeframes
Basic transponder key (no remote): ~30–60 minutes
Remote / flip key: ~45–90 minutes
Smart key (push-button start): ~60–120 minutes
All keys lost jobs: usually longer than a spare key (cutting + programming)
How to make it faster
If you have your rego, exact location, and key type ready,
we can usually give you a clear time estimate on the phone and bring the correct key the first time.
Yes, we can make a new key even when every key is lost for 95% of Cars.
What we need from you over the phone is
Make model & year or Registration Plate
Location of where the vehicle right now….
Is the Car a turn key start (normal key or push button start car ? )
Tell use if there is anything wrong with the car for example the cars battery is flat or any other information we need to know
Yes in most cases we can make a brand-new car key even if you’ve lost every key.
We’re a mobile auto locksmith, so we come to your car in Brisbane / Logan / Ipswich / Gold Coast and make the key on-site.
When all keys are lost, the job is usually two parts:
Cut the mechanical key to match your door/ignition, and Program the immobiliser chip (and remote buttons if your car has them)
so the car will actually start.
FAQ
How long does it take to make a replacement car key
Can you cut and program a key without the car present?
Usually no. Programming normally requires the vehicle. Some basic cutting can be done without it, but immobiliser programming needs the car.
Can you make a replacement key if the car battery is flat?
Yes, but we need Charge the Battery first before we can program a new key. Tell us on the phone if the battery is flat so we have everything and you have given us the heads up.
If my key is lost, do I need to change the locks?
No, Locksmiths can make a key to the lock, This is cheaper than changing your locks.
Do replacement keys come with a warranty?
Yes. Replacement keys come with warranty for genuine faults. Warranty doesn’t cover physical damage water, impact, crushed key, or your dog chowing the key.
Do you need the car’s VIN number to make a key?
Sometimes. Many jobs can be done without it, but VIN can help confirm the correct key type and system for your car.
My remote unlocks the car but won’t start it, what does that mean?
Usually the remote is paired but the transponder immobiliser chip inside isn’t working or the chip is missing or damaged. Which happens often because keys get thrown around.
Can you supply and program a push button start smart key?
Yes. The car and the security system’s type determine availability and programming service we offer.
Can you program keys bought online eBay Amazon?
If it’s the wrong frequency or chip type, it won’t work and you wasted your money.
Internet bought car keys are a mine field, looks the same key but is completely wrong.
Locksmith Attending Your Cars Location in Brisbane
Basic Transponder Key (Cheapest Option)
Description: A plain key that starts the car. No remote buttons central locking is done manually or with your existing remote (if you have one).
Optional extra line:
Ideal when you just need a working spare key at the lowest cost.
Remote Flip key
- Door Lock
- Ignition Lock
- Starts Car
- Remote to Lock / Unlock Car
Flip Key Remote (Upgrade Option)
Description: Key + remote in one. Flip-out blade with lock/unlock buttons for convenience and a modern look.
Optional extra line:
Available on some vehicles as an upgrade we’ll confirm compatibility first.
Smart key
- Door Lock Emergency Key Blade
- Remote to Lock / Unlock Car
- Starts Car
Smart Key (Push-Button Start)
Description: For push-button start cars. Lets you unlock and start the vehicle when the key is nearby (proximity key).
Optional extra line:
Required for vehicles with push-button start a standard key won’t work. Must be a Smart key for your car.
Client Testimonials
What we need from you (quick and easy)
How long does it take to make a replacement car key
To quote and bring the correct key, we’ll ask for:
Make / Model / Year (or your rego)
Where the vehicle is located
Whether it’s turn-key start or push-button start
If the car battery is flat (we can handle it — just tell us)
What happens when we arrive
Most “all keys lost” jobs go like this:
We confirm the vehicle and key type
Cut the key (if needed)
Program the immobiliser to the car
Test door, ignition, starting, and remote functions
If your car supports it, we can often make you a spare at the same time (recommended)
