Reviewed by the Master Locksmith team · Updated November 11, 2026
Which type of key do you have?
The key type sets most of the work, so it is the first thing we ask about.
| Key type | How to spot it | What the job involves |
|---|---|---|
| Basic metal key | All metal, no plastic head. Mostly older cars | Cutting only |
| Transponder key | Plastic head with a chip inside. The car won’t start without it | Cutting, then programming the chip to the car |
| Remote head key | Lock and unlock buttons built into the key head | Cutting, chip programming and pairing the remote |
| Flip key | The blade folds into the fob | Same as a remote head key, plus the fob shell |
| Smart key or proximity fob | Push-button start, no blade needed to drive | Programming the fob to the car, and cutting the emergency blade if it has one |
| Laser-cut key | A groove down the middle of the blade instead of notches on the edge | Cutting on high-security equipment |
Does a working key still exist?
Copying a key that still works is a smaller job than making one when every key is lost. With all keys lost, the technician cuts a new key from the lock or the key code, then programs it to the car. If you still have one good key, a car key duplicate is usually the simpler route, and the best time to get a spare is while the first key still works.
Your car’s make, model and year
Some makes need a security code or extra steps before a new key can be added, and newer models can need updated equipment. Key-cutting and programming equipment is on some of our vans, not all, so give us the make, model and year on the call. That way the technician who carries the right equipment for your car is the one who comes.
Programming
Programming pairs the key’s chip or fob with the car’s computer. Some cars accept a new key in a few steps; others need every existing key present, or a code from the manufacturer. Car key programming explains what happens at the car.
What else can change the job
- A worn ignition or door lock. A key that sticks or won’t turn can point to the cylinder, not the key. We check it and price any ignition work before doing it.
- Where the car is parked. Garage levels and gated lots can change how we reach the car, so tell us on the call.
- A spare on the same visit. Adding a second key while the technician is at the car is simpler than a second trip later.
How we quote
Call (301) 888-5152 with the make, model and year, the key type if you know it, and whether any working key exists. You get the full quote on the call. If something on site changes the job, we explain it and give you the price before doing anything. Have a government-issued photo ID ready, because we check it before any key is made (what ID we ask for).
Locksmith or dealer?
A dealer usually needs the car brought in, which can mean a tow and a wait for an appointment. Our technician cuts and programs the key where the car is parked. See car key replacement for how a visit works.
Questions
Can you make a key if I lost every key?
For most domestic and foreign makes, yes. We cut it from the lock or the key code and program it at the car.
Why do you need the make, model and year?
They tell us the key type and the equipment the job needs, so the quote is accurate and the right technician comes.
Can the price change after you arrive?
Only if we find something the call didn’t cover, like a worn ignition. We explain it and price it before any work starts.
Locked out instead? See what affects the cost of a car lockout.
Car key replacement