Lost All Your Car Keys? Here's What You Need to Know.
Losing all of your car keys — with no working spare remaining — is one of the most stressful automotive situations you can face. Standard key duplication is not an option because there is no working key to copy. The car's immobilizer system needs to be accessed at a deeper level to recognize and accept a completely new key. This requires specialized equipment and expertise that goes beyond what a typical hardware store or basic locksmith provides.
770 Locksmith handles all-keys-lost situations throughout Orange County every day. We arrive at your location fully equipped with EEPROM-level and OBD-port programming tools that allow us to create new transponder keys, smart keys, or push-to-start fobs from scratch — without towing your vehicle anywhere.
Why All-Keys-Lost Is Different From a Standard Key Replacement
When you have at least one working key, making a copy is relatively straightforward: cut the blade to match, program the chip to clone or add to the system. When all keys are gone, this process changes significantly:
- No key to clone: The chip in a transponder key stores an encrypted code unique to your vehicle. With no working key present, we cannot simply clone the signal — we must access the vehicle's immobilizer control unit directly.
- Immobilizer reset required: The car's ECU (engine control unit) or BCM (body control module) stores a list of authorized key codes. When all keys are lost, we must clear that list and enroll new keys — a process that requires direct module access.
- EEPROM reading: For many vehicles, the most reliable method is reading the immobilizer's EEPROM (memory chip) directly, extracting the security code, and using it to generate and authorize a new key. This requires specialized hardware and software tools — the same technology used by OEM dealers.
- OBD-port programming: For newer vehicles, the process can often be done entirely via the OBD-II diagnostic port under the dashboard, without opening any modules. This is faster but still requires professional dealer-level software.
Our All-Keys-Lost Process
Verify Ownership
Before beginning any all-keys-lost procedure, we verify your government-issued photo ID and proof of vehicle ownership (title, registration, or insurance card with your name and VIN). This is a non-negotiable security requirement.
Diagnose the System
We identify your exact vehicle make, model, year, and immobilizer type to determine the correct programming method — OBD-port, EEPROM read, or module-level access.
Access & Program
Using professional EEPROM or OBD-level tools, we access the immobilizer system, clear the lost key codes, and enroll brand-new transponder keys or smart key fobs to the vehicle.
Cut Keys & Test
We cut the key blades to match your locks, then test every key in the ignition and door to confirm the vehicle starts and operates perfectly before we leave.
All-Keys-Lost Service for All Vehicle Types
We handle all-keys-lost situations for virtually every vehicle type:
Transponder Key Vehicles
Most cars made after 1995 use transponder chip keys. We program new chip keys from scratch using EEPROM or OBD-level tools for all makes and models.
Push-to-Start / Smart Key
Modern vehicles with proximity key fobs and push-button start require the most advanced programming. We supply and program replacement smart key fobs even when no original remains.
Older Vehicles (Pre-1995)
Vehicles without transponder systems are generally easier — we cut a new mechanical key using the car's VIN code and get you back on the road quickly.
Trucks, SUVs & Vans
All-keys-lost service for trucks, commercial vans, fleet vehicles, and SUVs — including F-150, Silverado, Ram, Tacoma, and all major fleet brands.
Vehicles We Service for All-Keys-Lost
We provide all-keys-lost programming for all major manufacturers including:
- Toyota & Lexus — All years, all chip and smart key types including Prius, Camry, RAV4, Tacoma, 4Runner, and all Lexus models
- Honda & Acura — Civic, Accord, CR-V, Pilot, Odyssey, and all Acura models
- Ford, Lincoln & Mercury — PATS system vehicles, F-150, Explorer, Mustang, Fusion, and all Lincoln models
- Chevrolet, GMC, Buick & Cadillac — Silverado, Tahoe, Equinox, Malibu, all GM platforms
- Nissan & Infiniti — Altima, Rogue, Pathfinder, Frontier, all Infiniti models
- Hyundai, Kia & Genesis — All models including push-to-start smart key systems
- BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi & Volkswagen — European EIS/EZS systems, Megamos, and all current platforms
- Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler & Ram — SKIM/SKREEM transponder systems for all models
- Subaru, Mazda & Mitsubishi — All current and previous generation platforms
Not sure if we cover your vehicle? Call us with your year, make, and model — we'll confirm immediately.
What You Need to Have Ready
Because all-keys-lost is an advanced security procedure, we are required to verify that you are the legitimate owner before proceeding. Please have the following available when we arrive:
- Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport)
- Vehicle title — the most definitive proof of ownership
- OR: Current vehicle registration showing your name and the vehicle's VIN
- OR: Insurance card in your name with the VIN listed
If you do not have any of these documents on your person, call us and we'll discuss what alternatives may be acceptable depending on the situation.
All-Keys-Lost Pricing in Orange County
- Basic transponder vehicles (older, simpler systems):
- Modern transponder key vehicles:
- Push-to-start / smart key vehicles:
- European luxury vehicles (BMW, Mercedes, Audi):
Compare this to a dealership all-keys-lost procedure which typically runs — plus towing costs, plus the wait for a service appointment. We come to you, same day, with no towing required.
All-Keys-Lost Service Throughout Orange County
We respond to all-keys-lost calls throughout all Orange County cities including Irvine, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Huntington Beach, Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Fullerton, Orange, Garden Grove, Westminster, Tustin, Mission Viejo, Lake Forest, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, San Clemente, Yorba Linda, Brea, Dana Point, and all surrounding areas. Call us and we'll give you an accurate ETA for your location.