Difference Between Rekeying and Replacing Car Keys?
What’s the Difference Between Rekeying and Replacing Car Keys?
Losing or damaging your car key can be stressful, and figuring out the best solution isn’t always easy. Many drivers wonder: should I rekey my car key or replace it completely? While both services are offered by professional automotive locksmiths, they serve different purposes and come with different costs.
Understanding the difference between rekeying and replacing car keys can help you save money, improve your vehicle’s security, and choose the right service for your situation.
What Is Rekeying a Car Key?
Rekeying means changing the coding of your car’s locks so that old keys will no longer work, and only a new key will match the lock. This doesn’t involve replacing the entire lock or ignition system—it’s simply reconfiguring the pins inside the lock cylinder or reprogramming electronic key codes.
When rekeying is useful:
You lost a spare key but still have the main one.
You bought a used car and want to make sure old keys no longer work.
You suspect someone might have copied your car key.
You need an affordable alternative to full replacement.
Pro Tip: Rekeying is usually cheaper than replacing a car key and is a smart way to increase security.
What Is Car Key Replacement?
Car key replacement involves creating a brand-new key (mechanical, transponder, or smart key fob) that matches your car’s ignition and door locks. In many cases, locksmiths need to program the electronic chip inside the key so your vehicle will recognize it.
When replacement is necessary:
Your car key is broken, bent, or cracked.
You lost all copies of your key.
You need a spare smart key or remote fob.
The transponder chip inside your key stopped working.
Car key replacement takes more time than rekeying, especially for modern vehicles with advanced security systems.
When Should You Rekey Your Car Keys?
After buying a pre-owned vehicle.
If your keys have been stolen or you think someone copied them.
If you want to prevent old keys from working.
When you still have a functioning key but want extra security.
When Should You Replace Your Car Keys?
Your key is physically broken.
You lost all keys and have no spare.
You need a new smart key or key fob.
Your transponder chip stopped working.
FAQs
Yes. Rekeying is usually more affordable, but it only works if you still have at least one functioning key.
Most professional automotive locksmiths can rekey car keys, but it depends on your vehicle’s make and model.
Yes—in fact, rekeying improves security by ensuring old keys no longer work.
Basic keys can be replaced in under an hour, but smart keys and fobs may take longer due to programming.
