PRICE GUIDE · VEHICLES & TRANSPORT · 2026–2027
Car Key Replacement cost in Ireland
€120–€500 per key. Typically €250.
A car key replacement in Ireland costs €120–€500 per key, typically around €250. The price is set by key type (basic, remote, smart/proximity), programming/coding needed and make and model.
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HOW MUCH IT COSTS
How much does a car key replacement cost in Ireland?
| Low end | €120 | a simple job, off-peak, outside the cities |
|---|---|---|
| Typical | €250 | what most people pay |
| High end | €500 | the biggest jobs, short notice, Dublin |
Locufy guide prices for 2026–2027. Updated 2026. A national range, not a quote — enter your town above for real prices from the garages, mobile mechanics and valeters near you.
What moves the price
- Type of key — a basic cut key costs far less than a remote or smart proximity key.
- Complexity of the programming required — smart keys are coded to the car's immobiliser, which takes special tools and time.
- Emergency or booked visit — an emergency lockout call-out usually costs more than a planned key replacement.
- Model of your vehicle — some makes use security systems that only certain key programming tools can access.
- Any additional features such as remote locking — a remote fob needs its own programming as well as the key blade.
Maintenance and repair of personal transport equipment prices in Ireland are up 26% over five years (CSO Consumer Price Index, Maintenance and repair of personal transport equipment, to 2025 December). Five years ago a typical car key replacement would have cost about €200 — an estimate from today's guide price and that index, not a recorded price. Source: CSO CPM18, CPM12 →
WHAT YOU GET
What a car key replacement booking includes
Takes: The duration for car key replacement typically ranges from 30 minutes to a couple of hours.. Not included: Car key replacement services generally do not include repairs to the ignition system or other lock mechanisms unless specified.
WHAT PEOPLE BOOK
Common car key replacement jobs
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Car Key Replacement near you, with prices shown
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How to pay less
- Having a spare car key made while you still have a working one costs less than replacing a lost key.
- An auto locksmith who comes to you can cost less than a main dealer for the same car key replacement.
- Replacing just the fob casing or battery, if the electronics still work, costs less than a new car key.
- Booking the key replacement ahead, rather than calling out for an emergency lockout, keeps the cost lower.
- A basic cut key without a remote, where your car allows it, costs less than a full remote fob.
Before you book
- Your car's make, model and year, so the replacement key can be matched to your vehicle.
- Proof of ownership, such as the vehicle registration or title.
- Access to the vehicle for the technician to perform the necessary work.
- Any existing keys or key fobs for reference during the replacement process.
Car Key Replacement cost: questions people ask
The cost of car key replacement can vary based on the type of key, the complexity of the programming required, and the make and model of your vehicle. Luxury or newer vehicles often have more advanced keys, which can increase the cost.
The duration for car key replacement typically ranges from 30 minutes to a couple of hours. This timeframe depends on the type of key being replaced and whether programming or cutting is required.
While general locksmiths can handle most car key replacements, it's advisable to choose a specialist who has experience with your vehicle's make and model, especially for transponder keys. Some services may require regulated skills, particularly for advanced key systems.
Many locksmiths offer emergency or same-day car key replacement services, often at a premium. It's best to call ahead and confirm availability, especially if you need immediate assistance.
Yes, many locksmiths offer package deals for multiple services, such as lock changes and key replacements. Booking several related jobs at once can often lead to discounts.
Car key replacement services generally do not include repairs to the ignition system or other lock mechanisms unless specified. Always clarify with your locksmith what is included in the service prior to booking.
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