No. If you still have a working key we can usually copy it, but if every key is gone we can generate a new one from the vehicle itself. See our lost car keys service for that situation.

The year, make and model of the vehicle, where it is parked on Mercer Island, and — if you can reach it — the VIN from your registration or insurance card. We will also ask for ID and proof of ownership before making a key.

We cover a wide range of makes and models, but not every one. Key systems vary by year and trim, so we confirm your exact vehicle on the phone before dispatching.

Yes, for most vehicles. The blade can be cut from the vehicle’s key code or decoded from the lock, and the key is then programmed to the car. We confirm your specific vehicle when you call.

A properly cut and programmed key works the same way as the original: it opens the doors, starts the engine and runs the remote functions your key system supports. We test every function with you before we leave.

It depends on the key system. Copying a basic key is quick; programming a smart key takes longer. We give you a realistic idea on the phone once we know the vehicle.

Yes, in most cases. This is exactly what an all-keys-lost service is for. Feasibility depends on the vehicle, which we confirm when you call.

Usually not. We bring the equipment to the vehicle on Mercer Island and do the work there.

We ask for photo ID and proof of ownership, such as the registration or title, before making any key. It protects you as much as it protects us.

Retrace your steps and check with places you visited, but do not leave the car unattended for long if it is in a public lot. Then call with the vehicle details and its exact location.

If the key is found with your address or registration nearby, it is a risk. On many vehicles we can erase lost keys from the car’s memory so they no longer start it.

Current registration with matching photo ID is usually enough. If the registration is locked inside the car, we can open the car first and check it there.

Sometimes. Many aftermarket or used fobs are locked to another vehicle or are the wrong frequency or part. Call us with the part details and we will tell you honestly whether it is likely to work.

On most vehicles, yes — your existing keys are re-paired along with the new one. If you want a lost fob removed from the car, tell us.

The most common causes are a dead battery, worn button contacts, water damage, or the fob losing its pairing with the car. A new battery is the first thing to try.

Some older vehicles have an owner programming procedure for remotes. Most modern immobilizer keys and smart keys require professional programming equipment.

We can supply a replacement fob or smart key for many vehicles. If you already bought one, call with the part details first so we can tell you whether it is likely to work.

No. We come to the vehicle and bring a working key along with us to copy from — yours.

Yes. Let us know how many keys you want when you call so we come prepared.

A blade-only copy opens the doors but will not start a car that needs a chip. A programmed spare is paired with the vehicle and starts it like the original.

Copying an existing key is a simpler job than creating a key from nothing, so a spare made now saves time and hassle later. We quote your specific vehicle when you call.

Yes. Car Keys Mercer Island is open 24/7, including weekends and holidays.

We use purpose-made automotive entry tools, not improvised methods. If anything about your specific vehicle carries a risk, we explain it before we start.

Yes. If a child or a pet is locked inside a vehicle, call 911 first. Do not wait for a locksmith.

Usually, yes. Smart-key cars sometimes lock with the key inside; we open the vehicle and you can drive away with the key you already have.

Yes — for Tesla vehicles we offer lockout service only. We can get you back into a locked Tesla, but we do not make, program or replace Tesla keys, key cards or key fobs.

Trunk lockouts are common. The approach depends on the vehicle — some open through the cabin, others need direct trunk access. Give us the year, make and model and we will explain.

Not always. Most can, but it depends on the vehicle, the depth of the fragment and the cylinder’s condition. We are upfront about that on the call and on site.

Call us and describe what happened. We will tell you honestly whether it is something we can handle.

It is tempting, but pushing on the fragment or gripping it badly often drives it deeper. If it does not slide out easily, stop and call.

Often not. If the fragment comes out cleanly and the cylinder is in good shape, a new key is all you need. If the cylinder was damaged, we explain the options on site.

Not always. A worn key can cause the same symptoms as a worn ignition. We check both, and if a new key solves it, that is what we recommend.

Often, yes. Where that is not possible, we cut and program new keys so a single key operates the doors and the ignition.

Common causes are a worn key, a worn ignition cylinder, or a steering lock putting pressure on the cylinder. Gently turning the steering wheel while turning the key releases a binding steering lock.

Yes, for many vehicles. We inspect the ignition first and tell you whether servicing or replacement makes sense, and make sure your keys work with the result.