
What “all keys lost” means
An all-keys-lost situation is different from getting a spare. With no working key to copy or to help with programming, the new key has to be created from the vehicle itself and then introduced to the car’s security system. On many modern vehicles that is a more involved process than adding a key.
It is also why the details you share at the start matter. The year, make, and model tell us what kind of key system we are dealing with before we arrive.
What to do first
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Check one more time with anyone else who drives the vehicle — a spare changes the job.
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Note exactly where the vehicle is parked and whether it is on private property.
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Find the registration, title, or insurance card. If the paperwork is inside the locked car, tell us.
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Call us or send a request with the year, make, and model.
How an all-keys-lost job works
With no working key, there is nothing to copy and no existing key to confirm the new one, so this job has more steps than adding a spare.
Details and location. Year, make and model, where the car is parked, and whether any key, even a broken one, is left.
Proof of ownership. Because there is no key, documents matter more. We check ID plus title or registration, or written authorization for company and fleet vehicles.
Entry and identification. If the car is locked, we open it first, then identify the immobilizer system and the correct replacement key.
Mechanical key. The blade is cut from the vehicle’s key code when it is available, or decoded from a lock.
Programming a new key. Depending on the car, the immobilizer may need a security code, a timed security access or the manufacturer’s online authorization before it accepts a new key.
Removing lost keys. When the procedure supports it, keys you no longer have are removed from the car’s memory so they can’t start it.
Test and hand-off. Repeated starts and remote functions, and we tell you how many keys are now programmed. It’s a good moment to add a second key.
How this differs from adding a spare key
When you have a working key, many cars let us add a new key while your existing keys keep working. With all keys lost, the car has no known key to work from, so the procedure can include security codes, erasing and re-learning keys, and on some vehicles work on a control module. That is why an all-keys-lost job usually takes longer and costs more than a spare.
Equipment and care
Longer procedures draw power, so we check the battery and connect a power supply when needed. We confirm the key is compatible before programming and follow the procedure that applies to your vehicle. If a model requires a step that only a dealer can perform, we tell you up front.
Ownership verification
Making a key with no original is exactly the situation where proof of ownership matters most. Before we make or program any key, we verify ownership. Please have the vehicle registration, title, or insurance card ready, or have the registered owner present.
Frequently asked questions
Can a key be made if I have no key at all?
In many cases, yes, but it depends on the vehicle. Some models require dealer-level access or parts that must be ordered. We will tell you what applies to your vehicle before scheduling.
Does the car need to be towed?
Usually not. We are mobile and work where the vehicle is parked in Vancouver and the surrounding area.
My documents are locked in the car. What now?
Let us know when you call. We can discuss how to confirm ownership, including having the registered owner present.
Should I get two keys?
We recommend it. Adding a second key while we are already working on the vehicle is usually simpler than coming back for an all-keys-lost job again. Learn more about spare keys and key duplication.
Related services
Service area: from our base in Vancouver, we also serve Camas, Battle Ground, Ridgefield and Washougal, and Longview, WA.
Brands we work with
Ford · Chevrolet · GMC · Honda · Subaru · Volkswagen · Audi · Mercedes-Benz
For supported vehicles we use professional equipment and factory software with the required subscriptions. If a procedure requires secured access, we use the appropriate authorization. Service availability depends on the model, year and vehicle system.
Each linked name opens our page for that brand, with examples of completed work. Brand names are trademarks of their respective owners and are listed only to show the vehicles we service. Pacific Locksmith is an independent locksmith, not a dealer or representative of any manufacturer.
Request service
Send us a few details and we will get back to you. It helps to include:
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Year, make, and model of the vehicle
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Whether you have a working key
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Where the vehicle is located
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The FCC ID or part number from your key, if you have it
You can also email a photo of your key to info@lockpacific.com.
Prefer to talk? Call (564) 888-1172.
We verify ownership before any key is made or programmed: registration, title, insurance, or the owner present.
Recent all keys lost jobs
Real jobs from our own work photos. See all completed jobs
All keys lost: new key made and programmed on site in Vancouver, WA.
All keys lost: new key made and programmed on site in Portland, OR.
All keys lost: smart key ECU replaced and a new key programmed on site in Portland, OR.





