The cost difference starts with the key
When a driver has one working car key, making another is generally a straightforward addition to the vehicle’s existing key system. The technician has a working original to reference, and the vehicle can recognize that original during the programming process.
Lose the only working key and the job changes. There is no original to copy. The key must be originated by code or from the lock, and the vehicle’s computer must be programmed from nothing.
Both jobs may produce an identical replacement. The amount of work needed to reach that result is different, which is why planning a spare generally costs less than replacing a last lost key.
Why an all-keys-lost job costs more
A replacement key needs to operate the correct lock and, on most modern vehicles, communicate with the vehicle’s security system. Without a working original, the locksmith must originate the key by code or from the lock and program the vehicle’s computer from nothing.
The required work varies by vehicle and key technology. Some vehicles use a transponder key with a metal blade. Others use a remote head key, a smart key or a proximity fob for push-button start.
Most vehicles made since the late 1990s use electronic key recognition. A mechanically correct replacement may still need programming before the engine will start.
Cairn handles lost-key replacement for supported vehicles at their location. Vehicle details are checked before dispatch because not every system is supported. Many European makes from 2015 onward need dealer-only programming.
What you pay for when adding a spare
Key replacement pricing reflects the vehicle’s year, make, model and key system, along with the replacement hardware and programming required.
Cairn’s published starting prices, before parts, are $120 for a standard car key cut and programmed and $220 for a smart key or proximity fob. The $39 service call fee is charged separately. These are starting amounts, not a single price for every vehicle.
For a driver arranging two keys at one visit, Cairn has a spare car key offer. It takes $25 off a second key or fob that is cut and programmed at the same visit as the first key or fob.
The offer expires December 31, 2026. Mention it when arranging the work. Only one offer applies per job, and offers cannot be combined.
Before work begins, the technician checks the vehicle and provides a written price that lists the applicable charges. You approve the amount before cutting or programming begins.
Choose a useful place for the second key
A spare is most useful when it is available independently of the key you carry. Leaving both keys on the same ring does not provide much benefit if that ring goes missing.
Consider these practical habits:
- Keep the second key separate from your everyday set.
- Store a working spare somewhere you can access when needed.
- Check that the spare operates the vehicle before putting it away.
- Keep the replacement key paperwork with your vehicle records.
- Remember that prolonged Las Vegas heat can shorten fob battery life.
When keys are cut and programmed, Cairn tests them with the customer. Keys and fobs supplied and programmed by Cairn carry a 90-day warranty.
Arrange the job while a key still works
Have the vehicle’s year, make and model ready when you contact the locksmith. Explain whether you have a plain metal key, a chip key, a remote head key or a push-button-start fob.
The dispatcher also needs to know whether the vehicle starts and how many working keys remain. The VIN helps confirm the correct replacement, and the technician checks government photo ID against the registration, title or insurance documents.
Cairn’s mobile key service comes to the vehicle at home, work or a parking lot. There is no need to plan around a walk-in key counter.
The practical advantage of making a spare early is simple. You can add a key while the original still works, rather than paying for the additional steps of recovering from a complete loss.