Not sure what to expect when it comes to Volkswagen key replacement here in Raleigh, Durham, or Chapel Hill? FA Locksmith can help you get back behind the wheel of your Golf, Jetta, Taos or other VW! We offer key replacement and a range of other auto locksmith services for Volkswagen here in the Triangle Area. And over the years, we’ve heard similar questions from VW owners about where to order blank keys, what programming includes, and how to get spare fobs.
Here are your questions about Volkswagen key replacement, answered by the pros!


What does the VW key replacement process entail?
Volkswagen key replacement will depend on whether your model uses a classic mechanical key or more modern transponder key, flip key, or keyless fob.
For one thing, if your car uses a standard mechanical key, replacing it will include:
- Sourcing the appropriate blank key
- (Optional) Rekeying of the locks and ignition. Now, if you’re sure that the original key is lost to the world and not in someone else’s hands—for instance, if you dropped the key in a lake or accidently mailed it to a relative in another state—you won’t have to rekey your locks. But, if you’re unsure of where your keys are, it’s best to rekey the locks and ignition for a new set of keys. This will ensure that you’re not at risk for car theft from the lost set.
- Cutting the new keys. Not only can we cut you a new key for your VW but we’re also happy to cut a spare key to lower your risk of a lockout in the future!


Now, if your car uses a transponder key, flip key or keyless fob, replacing it will require:
- Sourcing the right model of key or fob.
- Cutting the mechanical part of the new key. Even keyless fobs often have a mechanical key embedded in the fob in case of emergencies. Cutting them will require the use of a specialized machine for high security car keys.
- Reprogramming the new key to your car’s operating system. Reprogramming of new VW keys requires the use of a car key programming tool, a machine that connects to your car’s operating system. This tool allows us to introduce new keys or fobs as well as retire old ones to give you peace of mind that your security is completely restored.


Can I program my new VW keys myself?
Although you might see DIY videos about VW key reprogramming online, the fact is, VW car security is designed to be too advanced for at-home solutions. Otherwise, all modern cars would be vulnerable to hacking and theft. Indeed, key programming machines are expensive pieces of equipment and they need to be updated with the latest software from various car manufacturers to be able to communicate with your Volkswagen’s operating system. Without this equipment your new blank key or fob will be unusable.
I lost my main VW key, can I duplicate the spare?
Most VW dealerships provide two working keys for their models when you drive your car off the lot. So, if you’ve lost your main key, you might wonder if you can simply duplicate the spare.
Well, yes and no. Volkswagen operating systems typically only allow two working keys at a time, so, when we cut and program an additional key, we’ll also retire the original one. That also means that if that original key shows up at the bottom of the laundry basket, it will be unusable.


Where can VW owners buy blank keys and fobs online?
Many VW owners ask us where they can find the best aftermarket blank keys online so that they can avoid going through the dealership. But our recommendation is to leave this step up to us at FA Locksmith. That’s because ordering keys online comes with a couple of risks.
On the one hand, VW keys are very specific to the model and year of the car, and it can be easy to order the wrong blank. For example, the 2001 VW Golf uses a different key than the 2005 VW Golf even though they look like the same flip key fob. It’s a costly mistake that can be avoided by relying on a professional locksmith who knows exactly what to look for.
The other risk of ordering a blank key online is that you’re not 100% sure what you’re getting. Often, the cheapest options online are coming from out of the country, and there’s no guarantee that they’re going to have functional internal wiring. As experts in car key replacement, we have a stock of working blank keys or know exactly where to order them at the best price.


Is it better to go to the VW dealership or an auto locksmith?
To be sure, contacting your Triangle Area Volkswagen dealership is a simple, relatively fast way to get new keys. But, there are a few reasons why car owners in Raleigh call our team at FA Locksmith first:
- We offer cheaper VW car key replacement. In terms of price, you’ll almost always save money by calling an auto locksmith before going to the dealer. We offer cheaper car key replacement and a range of other services, like help during a lockout or problems with your ignition.
- We come to you. No matter where you are in Raleigh, Durham, or Chapel Hill, when you call FA Locksmith, we’ll send a mobile locksmith to your location to offer key programming on-site.
- We work all hours. While your closest local dealership probably has set business hours, our team offers auto locksmith services 24/7, as well as on weekends and holidays.
Ready for Volkswagen car key replacement with FA Locksmith? We’ll come to you anywhere in the Triangle Area to help you with VW key replacement, lockouts, faulty locks, and more!


















































































