Question 1

How much does automotive key programming cost?

Accepted Answer

Smart key programming costs $150-300 per key depending on vehicle year, make, and key type. This includes mobile service, programming, and verified start test for Ford, GM, Toyota, Honda, RAM, Kia, and Hyundai. Additional spare key programming is $100-200. Lost all keys service (cutting + programming) is $250-450. Compare to dealership prices of $350-800+ per key. Immobilizer reset costs $150-300. Call (941) 310-7528 for exact pricing for your vehicle.

Question 2

Do you offer mobile key programming service?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We offer mobile key programming throughout North Port, Sarasota, Venice, Port Charlotte, and Southwest Florida. We come to your location with all necessary programming equipment - you don't need to tow your vehicle or visit a shop. Mobile service includes on-site key cutting (if needed), programming, immobilizer synchronization, and verified start test. Average service time is 30-60 minutes at your location. Available for all makes including Honda, Toyota, Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia.

Question 3

Can you program keys if I lost all my keys?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can program new keys even if you've lost all existing keys. This requires immobilizer reset/bypass procedures using specialized equipment to generate new security codes and synchronize the immobilizer system with new keys. Lost all keys service costs $250-450 including key cutting, immobilizer reset, programming, and verified testing. Turnaround time is typically same-day for most vehicles. We handle Honda, Toyota, Ford, Chevrolet, Nissan, and all major brands. Much faster and cheaper than dealer towing + programming ($600-1200).

Question 4

What's the difference between key cutting and key programming?

Accepted Answer

Key cutting is the physical process of duplicating the metal blade that mechanically operates the door lock or ignition cylinder. Key programming is the electronic process of synchronizing the transponder chip (RFID) inside the key with your vehicle's immobilizer system so the engine will start. Modern vehicles (1998+) require BOTH cutting and programming. A properly cut key will turn in the ignition but won't start the engine without programming. We provide both services - cutting + programming in a single mobile service call.

Question 5

How long does key programming take?

Accepted Answer

Most key programming services take 30-60 minutes total including travel time to your location, key cutting (if needed), programming procedures, and verification testing. Simple transponder key programming can be completed in 20-30 minutes. Smart key/proximity key programming for push-button start vehicles may take 45-60 minutes due to additional security procedures. Lost all keys service requiring immobilizer reset takes 60-90 minutes. We complete most services same-day in North Port, Sarasota, Venice area.

Question 6

Can you program smart keys for push-button start vehicles?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We specialize in smart key (proximity key) programming for push-button start vehicles manufactured 2010+. This includes Honda, Toyota, Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, RAM, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, and luxury brands. Smart key programming is more complex than traditional transponder programming because it involves RFID synchronization, push-button start system coding, and remote start integration. Cost is $150-300 per smart key vs. dealership $400-800. We solve 'Key Not Detected' and push-button start issues caused by lost or damaged smart keys.

Question 7

Do you program keys for European cars (Audi, BMW, Mercedes, VW)?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we program keys for European vehicles including Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and Porsche using factory-level diagnostic equipment (VCDS, ODIS, ISTA, Xentry). European key programming requires specialized procedures, security access codes, and dealer-level diagnostic tools that mobile locksmiths don't have. We handle transponder keys, smart keys, comfort access keys, and immobilizer synchronization for all European makes. Costs $200-400 per key vs. dealer $500-1200. Some European vehicles require towing to our North Port shop due to complex security systems.

Question 8

What if my key programming doesn't work after service?

Accepted Answer

All key programming services include on-site verification testing - we don't leave until your vehicle starts reliably with the newly programmed key. If any issues arise within 30 days related to our programming (not physical key damage), we'll return to diagnose and correct the issue at no additional charge. Our success rate is 99.2% for key programming across all makes and models. In rare cases where a vehicle has underlying immobilizer or BCM issues preventing successful key programming, we'll diagnose the root cause and provide repair recommendations.

Lost Your Car Keys? We Come to You!

How Can We Help You Today?

Lost All Keys?

Key Not Working?

Need Spare Key?

Trusted by 460+ Customers

Keys We Program

Why Choose AutoIQ

Ready to Get Started?