Most people only start thinking about a spare key after they have already lost their main one. That is the worst time to deal with it - rushed, stressful, and often more expensive.

Getting a spare key made when you are not in a hurry is one of the simplest and most practical things you can do as a car owner in the GTA. Here is exactly how it works.

Why a Spare Key Is Worth Having

The obvious reason: if you lose your only key, you are stuck. But there are a few less obvious ones too.

  • Having a spare key often makes a lost-key job faster and cheaper - some programming procedures are simpler when at least one working key is present
  • Family members driving the same vehicle need access
  • Rental properties, fleet vehicles, and household cars with multiple drivers all benefit from a second key
  • Some newer vehicles require two programmed keys to complete a full security reset - having a spare already means less work if something goes wrong

What You Need to Know Before You Call

The process for getting a spare depends entirely on what type of key your vehicle uses. This is the most important thing to understand up front.

Basic metal key (no chip)

Older vehicles - most pre-2000 models - use a plain cut key with no electronics. A hardware store or locksmith can cut a copy from your existing key in minutes. Simple, cheap, no programming required.

Transponder key (chip key)

Most cars made after 2000 use a transponder key with a chip inside. Cutting the key is only step one - the chip also has to be programmed to match your vehicle's immobilizer. This requires professional equipment. A hardware store key blank will not start the car even if the cut is perfect.

Smart key or key fob

Push-to-start vehicles use a proximity fob that communicates wirelessly with the car. No cutting required - the fob just needs to be programmed to your vehicle. This is a key programming job that takes 30 to 60 minutes on-site.

Need help right now?

Tell us your vehicle year, make, and model - we will confirm what your spare key involves and quote the cost before you book.

Call (647) 557-8103 - free quote by phone, no obligation

What the Process Looks Like

When you call a mobile locksmith for a spare key, here is what typically happens:

  1. You describe your vehicle - year, make, model, and what key you currently have. The locksmith confirms what the spare involves.
  2. You get a quote by phone - before anything is booked. No obligation until you agree to the price.
  3. The locksmith comes to you - at your home, workplace, or wherever the car is parked.
  4. The key is cut and/or programmed on-site - usually takes 20 to 60 minutes depending on the vehicle.
  5. You test it and sign off - the spare works, you pay, done.

How Much Does a Spare Key Cost in the GTA?

Cost depends on the key type and vehicle:

  • Basic metal key: $10 to $30 (hardware store or locksmith)
  • Transponder key: $120 to $280 (cutting plus programming)
  • Smart key / proximity fob: $180 to $400 (programming only)
  • High-security or luxury vehicle key: $250 to $500+

Mobile locksmiths in the GTA are generally 30 to 60 percent less expensive than dealerships for the same spare key job. See our full car key cost guide for a complete breakdown.

Do You Need to Bring the Car to Anyone?

No - that is the point of a mobile service.

We come to your location anywhere in the GTA - whether that is your driveway in Toronto, a parking lot in Mississauga, or a side street in Vaughan. As long as the vehicle is there, we can do the work.

Can You Get a Spare Key Without the Original?

Yes, though it is a different process. Without an existing working key, the locksmith generates a new key from the VIN and vehicle security data. This is called an all-keys-lost job. It is more involved and slightly more expensive, but it is done regularly.

You will need to show proof of ownership - registration or title - before the work begins. That is standard practice for any reputable locksmith.

When Is the Best Time to Get a Spare Made?

Right now, honestly. Not in a crisis, not on the side of a highway at 9pm. Getting a spare key made when you have time to plan means you get a better price, no stress, and a backup for the next time something goes wrong.