Car Key Replacement — How It Works, Pricing & What to Expect
Lost, broken, or stolen car key? We cut & program new keys on-site.
Car Key Replacement — What You Need to Know
Losing your car keys or finding them snapped in the ignition is one of the most stressful moments of the day. QA Locksmith specializes in mobile car key replacement across the Greater Toronto Area — we come to your location, cut a new key, and program it to your vehicle's immobilizer system on the spot. No dealership wait times. No towing fees. Most jobs completed in under 45 minutes.
Our Equipment & Expertise
Modern vehicles use transponder chips, proximity sensors, and rolling security codes that require specialized equipment to program. Our technicians carry key-cutting machines and OBD-II-compatible programming tools for over 98% of vehicle makes and models sold in Canada, including Ford, Toyota, Honda, GM, Hyundai, Kia, and more.
Professional Tools We Use
- Autel IM608 key programmer
- Xhorse VVDI2
- Mobile laser key cutter
- OBD-II diagnostic interface
- EEPROM chip reader/writer
How Our Car Keys Service Works
Call & Confirm
Provide your vehicle make, model, and year. We verify compatibility and give you an upfront price — no surprises.
We Come to You
A certified technician dispatches immediately to your location anywhere in the GTA, typically arriving in 20–40 minutes.
Key Cutting
Using a precision mobile key-cutting machine, we cut a new blade matched exactly to your vehicle's lock profile.
Transponder Programming
We connect to your vehicle's OBD-II port and program the new key's chip to your car's ECU, bypassing the immobilizer.
Test & Confirm
We test the key in every lock and the ignition before we leave. You drive away — problem solved.
Common Car Keys Situations We Handle
- Keys locked inside the car with the engine running
- Key broke off inside the ignition cylinder
- Fob battery replaced but car won't recognize the key
- Moved to a new city and need a spare made
- Theft — need to rekey so lost key can't start the car
One call gets a certified technician dispatched to your location immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions — Car Key Replacement
Can you replace a car key without the original?
Yes. We can cut and program a new key from scratch using your vehicle's VIN. We may ask for proof of ownership (registration or insurance) for security purposes.
Is it cheaper than the dealership?
Typically 30–50% less than dealership pricing, with the added convenience of coming to your location.
Do you cover all car brands?
We cover 98%+ of vehicles sold in Canada. A small number of European luxury brands (some Maserati, rare Jaguar models) may require specialized dealership programming.
How long does programming take?
Most transponder key programming takes 20–40 minutes. Proximity/smart keys can take up to 60 minutes.
Can you make a key if my car has a push-to-start?
Absolutely. We carry proximity key blanks and the programming equipment to handle push-to-start vehicles from most manufacturers.