Lost car key or dead fob: locksmith or dealer, and what it costs

Updated November 10, 2026 · KeystoneProGuide editorial team

What should you try before calling anyone?

Check the battery. ALOA, the locksmiths' trade association, says a dead battery is the most frequent issue affecting key fobs, and that most fobs take a coin-cell battery you can replace with a small screwdriver, taking care not to crack the case. It lists a few other causes that do not need a professional: signal interference from electronics, metal objects or crowds; dirty contacts inside the fob; and loose battery contacts.

ALOA also points out two things drivers often miss:

• There may be a key inside the fob. Even if you normally use the buttons, many fobs hold a physical key that can open the car, even if it will not start it.
• A weak fob may still start the car up close. For push-button ignitions, ALOA suggests holding the fob right against the start button, or wherever the owner's manual says, because a fob with a low battery may not be recognized from a distance.

When is it time to call a locksmith?

ALOA lists the situations:

• you have lost every key to the car, or want spares so you never reach that point;
• the key will not turn the ignition and cleaning the lock did not help;
• the dashboard shows a "bad key", "no key" or "wrong key" message for a key that has started the car before;
• you are locked out and have confirmed every door is locked;
• the key is broken.

If a key snaps off in a car lock, ALOA says not to try removing it yourself, because that can damage the lock beyond use; the usual fix is then a new lock mechanism. It also advises against penetrating oil in car locks, which it says seldom need lubrication and usually need cleaning instead.

ALOA lists providing replacement transponder and alarm fobs for vehicles among locksmith services, and says automotive locksmithing has become a specialized part of the trade over the past 25 years or so. Its certifications include a Certified Automotive Locksmith level; that is a voluntary trade credential, not a license.

When do you need the dealer instead?

Sometimes there is no choice. ALOA says that in some cases the dealership is the only option for key issues, most often with European cars, though it can happen with any make. Ask a locksmith before you book, since ALOA says a locksmith can tell you whether you need a locksmith or a mechanic.

What does a replacement car key cost?

It depends on the key. The figures below are national survey ranges; none is specific to Pennsylvania.

HomeGuide says basic key copies cost $5 to $20, while keys with transponder chips or fobs cost more because they must be programmed to the car. Fixr gives $10 to $50 to duplicate a car key. HomeAdvisor says an after-hours car unlocking may cost double.

The cheapest replacement is the one made while you still have a working key, which is why ALOA lists getting spares to avoid an "all keys lost" situation as a reason to call.

Who should you call if you are locked out of your car?

• 911, if a child is inside. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that if you see a child alone in a locked car, act immediately and call 911.
• Roadside assistance, if you have it. Washington's Attorney General says to call your roadside service first, noting it may come with the car, an insurance policy or a membership club.
• Local police, in some areas. The Southern Chester County Regional Police Department offers a vehicle lockout service as a courtesy, ranked below more serious calls, and will help you reach a locksmith or tow service if officers cannot open the car without damage. That is one department; check whether yours does the same.
• A locksmith you have checked. Locked out of your house? explains how to vet one on the phone, and the same checks apply to a car call.

How do you avoid the expensive cases?

• Keep a spare. A copy made from a working key avoids the all-keys-lost job.
• Keep keys away from children. NHTSA says to store car keys and fobs out of a child's reach.
• Keep house and car keys apart. Northampton Township police in Bucks County say not to leave home and car keys together, because an address can be found from a license plate and keys can be quickly duplicated.

The cost guide compares car key prices with home locksmith work, and local businesses are on the locksmiths directory page.

Sources

1. Issues With Your Auto Key Fob, ALOA Security Professionals Association
2. What Services Does A Locksmith Provide?, ALOA Security Professionals Association
3. ALOA Certification, ALOA Security Professionals Association
4. How Much Does a Locksmith Cost?, HomeGuide
5. Locksmith Prices, Fixr
6. How Much Does a Locksmith Cost?, HomeAdvisor
7. Child Heatstroke Prevention: Prevent Hot Car Deaths, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
8. Keys to avoiding locksmith fraud, Washington State Office of the Attorney General
9. Vehicle Lock-out Services, Southern Chester County Regional Police Department
10. Crime Prevention, Northampton Township Police Department