Short Answer

It Depends on the Key, Not the Store

An auto parts store such as AutoZone or O'Reilly can sometimes help with a basic lock/unlock remote for an older vehicle. Some of those remotes you can even program yourself at home. But push-to-start smart keys, keys with an immobilizer chip that have to start the engine, and situations where every key is lost usually need diagnostic programming equipment. That is a job for a locksmith or a dealer. Store services and policies vary by location, so always call the store with your year, make and model before buying a fob there.

First, Figure Out Which Kind of Key You Have

"Key fob" means different things on different cars. What matters is what the car needs from the key:

  • ✓Separate remote (keyless entry only). A small fob with lock, unlock and panic buttons, plus a separate metal key. It opens the doors but has nothing to do with starting the engine.
  • ✓Remote head or flip key. Buttons and blade in one piece. It usually has two jobs: the remote buttons and a hidden transponder chip that tells the immobilizer the key is allowed to start the car.
  • ✓Smart / proximity key. You keep it in your pocket and press a start button. The car talks to it electronically every time you drive.

That second point is the one that surprises people: on many vehicles the buttons and the chip are programmed separately. A new remote can lock and unlock your doors perfectly and the car still won't start.

When a Store (or DIY) Is Usually Enough

  • ✓You have an older vehicle with a separate keyless-entry remote, and you only need the buttons to work.
  • ✓Your owner's manual describes an on-board programming procedure (a sequence of key turns or door-lock presses).
  • ✓You still have a working key and the store confirms they support your exact vehicle.

In these cases, saving a trip makes sense. We would rather you know that.

When You Will Likely Need a Locksmith

  • ✓Push-to-start smart keys. These are programmed through the car's diagnostic port with professional equipment.
  • ✓The new key has to start the engine. Transponder chip programming is a different step from the remote buttons.
  • ✓All keys are lost. A new key has to be cut and programmed with no original to copy. See our lost car keys service.
  • ✓You want the lost key erased so it can no longer start the car.
  • ✓The store tried and it didn't work, or they told you your vehicle isn't supported.
Autel IM508 key programmer used for on-site smart key and transponder programming
The Autel IM508 we use to program transponder keys, smart keys and fobs at your car.

Before You Buy a Fob Online or In a Store

Cheap fobs from online marketplaces are the most common problem we see. A few checks save money:

  • ✓Match the FCC ID or part number printed on your current fob (often on the back or inside the case). A fob that looks the same can run on a different frequency or chip.
  • ✓Be careful with used fobs. Many are locked to the car they came from and cannot be programmed to a second vehicle.
  • ✓Remember the blade. A flip key or emergency key still has to be cut to your car.
  • ✓Ask first. Text us a photo of the fob and its label at (360) 952-1087 and we'll tell you honestly whether it can work with your car.

How We Do It in the Portland Area

Quick Lock & Key is a mobile-only car locksmith. Alex, the owner, is an Oregon Certified Locksmith (#7050OCLS), and the business holds Oregon CCB #263757 and $1,000,000 liability insurance. We come to your driveway, parking lot or workplace across the Portland metro area, program the key at the car with professional equipment, and test the remote, the door and the ignition before we leave.

Here is the usual process:

  1. Call or text with your year, make and model and tell us whether you still have a working key.
  2. We tell you the price by phone before driving out. Prices depend on the vehicle; a mobile service fee based on distance is added.
  3. We verify ownership, then cut and program the key on-site.
  4. On request, we erase lost keys from the car.

Starting prices when you still have a working key: remote head, flip or fobik key $150–190; smart key from $180. If all keys are lost, we quote by phone. Some European vehicles need a quick system check before we can give a price. Want a backup before you're down to one key? See spare car keys, or read more about our key programming service.