Locksmith Services Guide
Losing all copies of a key does not mean you need to replace the lock. A licensed locksmith has multiple methods for creating a new working key directly from the lock itself. This is one of the core skills that separates a professional locksmith from a simple key cutter at a hardware store.
The most common method for standard pin-tumbler locks. The locksmith inserts specialized decoding tools into the lock cylinder to read the pin depths -- essentially reverse-engineering what key shape the lock needs. Once the depths are known, a new key is cut on a key machine to match. This method is non-destructive and does not require removing the lock from the door.
Impressioning involves inserting a blank key into the lock and applying turning pressure while manipulating the blank. The pins leave tiny marks on the blank where material needs to be filed away. The locksmith files the blank based on these marks, tests again, files more, and repeats until the key turns the lock. This is a skill-intensive technique that takes longer but produces an accurate working key.
Every lock has a code -- either stamped on the lock body, on a card that came with the lock, or stored in the manufacturer's database. If the code is available, a locksmith can cut a key directly from the code without needing to examine the lock at all. High-security locks like Medeco and Mul-T-Lock use registration cards that link your lock to its code for exactly this purpose.
For stubborn cases, the locksmith can remove the lock cylinder from the door, disassemble it, and directly measure the pin lengths. New pins are selected to match a new key, or a new key is cut to match the existing pin configuration. The lock is then reassembled and reinstalled.
Modern car keys are more complex because they contain electronic transponder chips that must communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer system. A locksmith can still make a new car key without the original, but the process involves:
This is typically much less expensive than going through a dealership, and a mobile auto locksmith can do it at your location rather than requiring a tow.
If you have lost all keys and are also concerned about security (someone may have found your keys and knows your address), making a new key to the existing configuration leaves the old found keys still working. In that case, rekeying the lock -- which changes the pin configuration so no old keys work -- is the smarter choice. It costs only slightly more than key cutting and provides genuine security.
Need a replacement key with no original? Our locksmiths use professional key-by-code and decoding methods for most lock types.
For a standard residential door key, expect to pay $50 to $150 for the decoding and cutting process, depending on the lock type. High-security keys (Medeco, Mul-T-Lock) cost more because of restricted blanks. Car keys with transponder programming typically range from $150 to $350 depending on the vehicle.
Most professional locksmiths have the training and tools for basic key-from-lock work on standard pin-tumbler locks. High-security locks and car keys with electronic programming require more specialized equipment and training. When calling, ask specifically whether they can handle your lock brand or vehicle make.
Making a key from the lock typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. Rekeying takes about the same. The key difference is that making a key preserves the existing configuration (old keys still work if found), while rekeying creates a new configuration (old keys are permanently invalidated).