Can a locksmith make a car key if I lost my only one?

Yes. A professional auto locksmith can create a new car key even if the original is lost. Using your vehicle’s VIN and specialized equipment, a replacement key or key fob can be cut and programmed on-site.

Do I need to tow my car if I lost my key?

No. A mobile auto locksmith can come directly to your location in Charleston and replace your car key on-site, eliminating the need for towing to a dealership.

How long does it take to replace a lost car key?

Replacement time depends on the vehicle’s year, make, model, and key type. In many cases, service can be completed quickly once the locksmith arrives.

Is a locksmith cheaper than the dealership for car key replacement?

In most cases, yes. Mobile locksmiths typically charge less than dealerships and avoid additional costs like towing and long wait times.

Do you replace key fobs and push-to-start keys?

Yes. We replace and program traditional keys, transponder keys, remote key fobs, and push-to-start smart keys for most vehicles.

What do I need to replace a lost car key?

You’ll need a valid photo ID and proof of vehicle ownership, such as vehicle registration or insurance. This ensures keys are only made for authorized owners.

Car Key & Key Fob Programming Services in Charleston, SC

Car key & key fob programming at your location.

Key Programming Charleston SC The Key Man

The Key Man is a mobile automotive locksmith in Charleston, SC specializing in fast, on-site car key and key fob programming. From reprogramming transponder keys to syncing smart keys and remote fobs, we come directly to your location—no towing and no dealership delays.

We Travel To You!

Call For A Free Quote

843-419-KEYS

Employee Owned

What To Do Right Away

CR2032 key fob battery labeled The Key Man used in car key and key fob programming

Try More Than One New Battery

If your key fob isn’t working, start by replacing the battery. Some new button batteries can be weak or dead out of the package, so trying more than one battery can save time and money before moving on to programming.

Check for “Key Not Detected” or Communication Issues

Check your dashboard for a blinking theft or security light—this often means the vehicle isn’t recognizing the key. If your car has a push-to-start system, look for a backup key or fob slot inside the vehicle. In many cases, you may still be able to start the vehicle even if the lock and unlock buttons are no longer working.

Call a Mobile Automotive Locksmith

If the issue isn’t the battery and the vehicle isn’t detecting the key, a mobile automotive locksmith can diagnose the problem and program the key on-site. We come to your location with the proper tools, no towing and no dealership delays.

How Our Car Key & Key Fob Programming Process Works

Our car key and key fob programming process is fast, secure, and performed on-site. We connect advanced programming equipment directly to your vehicle’s on-board diagnostic system to properly program transponder keys, smart keys, or key fobs so they communicate with your vehicle.

Most modern vehicles require electronic programming when creating or duplicating a key. Some older vehicles may not require programming at all. If you’re unsure whether your vehicle needs key programming, our locksmiths are happy to help—just give us a call.

Mobile automotive locksmith in Charleston replacing a lost car key on site

Has your car key or key fob lost its programming?

Has your car key or key fob lost its programming? Our experienced automotive locksmiths provide fast car key programming services in Charleston, SC to get you back on the road quickly and safely. We can reprogram existing keys, program new replacement keys, or create duplicates to prevent future lockouts.

If your key fob or remote is not working, it may simply need a new battery. If programming is required, we’ll let you know upfront. All of our keys and key fobs include a one-year guarantee for peace of mind. Call or live chat with us today for pricing and availability.

Rest assured, you can trust The Key Man.

843-419-KEYS

Car Key Programming FAQs

Why does my dashboard say “Key Not Detected”?

This usually means the vehicle is not recognizing the key or key fob. A weak battery, lost programming, or an unprogrammed replacement key can all cause this message.

Why is the key or lock symbol blinking on my dashboard?

A blinking key or lock light typically indicates a security or immobilizer issue. In many cases, the vehicle is not communicating properly with the key and may require programming.

My car won’t start but the battery in the key fob is new—why?

Some new button batteries are weak or dead right out of the package. Try more than one new battery. If the issue continues, the key may have lost its programming or is no longer being recognized by the vehicle.

Where is the backup key or fob slot in a push-to-start car?

Many push-to-start vehicles have a backup slot in the center console, dashboard, or near the steering column. Using the backup slot may allow the vehicle to start even if the buttons on the key fob are not responding.

Can a locksmith fix a “Key Not Detected” issue?

Yes. A mobile automotive locksmith can diagnose the issue and program the key or fob on-site if programming is required.

Do I need to go to the dealership for key programming?

Not usually. Most car keys and key fobs can be programmed by a mobile automotive locksmith without towing the vehicle to a dealership.

Car Keys We Can Program

GMC

Kia

What our customers say about us…

Reviews

Joe E.

Dylan helped me on a Sunday afternoon after I locked my keys in my car. Not only was he able to get the car unlocked, but he was kind enough to make me a spare key free of charge!

Dianne C.

Great price, speedy and responded promptly!! Highly recommend!!

Ronald F.

Holly Grandma H.

If I could I would leave 100 stars!! In a time when its hard to get fast, reasonable and accurate service this experience blew me out of the water!!! My son needed a key made for his lost car key so I called a few locksmiths. I could just tell when I spoke to Dylan that he would be awesome and he certainly did not disappoint!! His fee was at least $100 less than anyone else I called! He was available when we needed him and arrived on time and was done in 20 min's!! It was an amazing experience! Corporate America could learn a lot from this company about getting it done quickly, and reasonably!!Thank you again Dylan! I will definitely use you if the need should arise!!

Ed and Robin R.

Simply the best service I could ever received. I would give them 10 stars. I wish them all the best. Get your keys from The Key Man. Yes! That good

Tylor R.

Great service and fast!

Courtany H.

Jesse P.

Amazing service! Our two dogs managed to step on the button and lock themselves in our Jeep with the keys inside. We were pretty anxious about it, but Dylan saved the day. He arrived within 20 mins (on a Sunday too) and wouldn’t accept any payment… we couldn’t believe it. Thank you so much, we can’t tell you how much we appreciate it!!

Kim D.

Dylan returned my call in a timely manner and was friendly, professional, and informative. He showed up on time for my appointment and handled the situation in minutes. My replacement key was made quickly for a reasonable fee. I will definitely use Dylan again, just hopefully not too soon!

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