Audi
Audi Key Replacement – All The Information You Need about Audi Car Keys, Remotes, Fobs, Push to Start, Ignition Problems & More.
Here you will find all the relevant information about how to get an Audi key replacement. This is relevant for most Audi models including Audi A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, Q2, Q3, Q5, Q6, Q7, Q8, R6, R8, RS3, RS5, RS6, RS7, RS8, S1, S2, S4, S5, S6, S7, S8, TT and more.
Want to get some useful tips before you call a locksmith? Read out blog post Locksmith near me
Table of Contents
What should you do when your Audi car key is lost and how to get a replacement:
Generally speaking, you have three options:
- First, call an automotive locksmith that offers a mobile service for Audi cars.
- Second, tow the car to the dealer.
- Third, order a key online and have the dealer or locksmith cut and program (if necessary) it for you.
For a more detailed explanation including tips on how to SAVE TIME AND MONEY please visit our blog post: How to get a replacement key
Below are some additional tips:
- First, make sure you don’t have a spare key. Many of us put one away as a backup for when we lose our key. Take a deep breath and try to remember where it is. Need some help? Here are some great ideas about how to find your lost Audi keys.
- In addition, if you decided to call an automotive locksmith or dealer, remember to provide the exact year, make and model, e.g. “I lost the key to my 2015 Audi Q5/ 2010 Audi A3/ 2018 Audi A6” etc. This is important so the locksmith can check if he or she has the right key blank.
- Furthermore, remember to ask if the key needs to be programmed or coded, some models do – e.g., a replacement key for a 2018 Audi key fob or a 2017 Audi Q5 will need to be programmed, whereas 1994 Audi won’t.
- If you think you need a new ignition switch/ lock cylinder, first make sure you don’t simply need a new key. Changing the ignition for Audi cars is more expensive than buying a replacement key and it will mean that you will have one key for the doors and another for the ignition.
- When calling a dealer to get an Audi replacement key, ask if you can pick up the new key yourself, or whether you have to tow the car there.
- In addition, if the key won’t turn in the ignition, mention if this is something that has happened for the first time or is an ongoing problem.
- Moreover, if you have previously changed the ignition cylinder, tell the locksmith or dealer as it may prevent them from cutting you a new key by code.
- Finally, make sure you have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the car and relevant documents to show ownership of the car. The title certificate, registration papers, your ID and proof of insurance, etc.
Audi keys replacement near me – Things to remember before calling a locksmith or dealer
Calling an automotive locksmith or a dealer near your location when you need a key replacement is probably the most common thing to do. Based on your location, an automotive locksmith can come to you, or you may choose to tow the car to the dealer.
We outline a few points to remember, to help you save some time and money regardless of which option you choose:
- First, always ask for a quote. Describe the problem in detail and give the automotive locksmith all the details, even if you think they may not be relevant.
- Moreover, If the locksmith has all the details, it can speed up the process and make it more cost-effective. Remember to give them your exact location to prevent a long waiting period. It may also affect the price.
3. In addition, tell the locksmith/dealer if the ignition was changed before, as far as you know. A previous ignition change may result in different keys for the ignition and doors.
4. Most Audi models today are equipped with chips or transponders, so make sure you mention the exact year, make, and model and ask the locksmith if they have the necessary tools in their truck to code the key. Not all locksmiths have a key coding machine to program those keys.
5. In addition, it’s important to have the VIN number available as the locksmith may need it.
6. Finally, remember that for most Audi models, there is no need to tow the car to the dealer should you lose your car keys. An automotive locksmith should be able to make you a new car key on site.
Q: Audi key replacement cost – How much will it cost to replace an Audi key without the original? What is the average price?
The answer below is a short explanation. For a more detailed explanation and GREAT TIPS on how to save money, please visit our blog post: Car keys replacement cost
A: In a nutshell, to replace an Audi key can cost anywhere between $200 and $1200. The price you pay depends on several factors:
- The type of key
- The car’s year of manufacture
- The day of the week, the time of day (or night!) & your location
- Where you get the key replacement (dealer, automotive locksmith, online, etc.)
- Availability of the code to cut a new key
- Original ignition or not
The type of key you had and the year the car was manufactured are probably the most important factors as they dictate whether you need a chip, intelligent fob, “push to start”, remote, or a regular “non-transponder” key. Keys for late model cars have better security features and so you can expect to pay more than $350 for a replacement key.
In addition,
it depends on where you get a key replacement. The dealer, automotive locksmith or get it online. Click here to get a more detailed explanation of how to get a replacement key. As mentioned above, most chances the dealer would be your best and only choice as most locksmiths do not program these types of keys.
Finally,
if your Audi ignition cylinder has been changed in the past (quite often the case with older cars), this probably means that the code for the key may no longer be valid, so you will either have to get a new key cut manually by a locksmith or change the ignition once again so the dealer can’t be of help.
Q: How can I know if my 2017 Audi Q5 key had a chip in it? I understand that some keys need to be programmed and some don’t?
A: A good rule of thumb is that a key that had a plastic cover at the top and/or the vehicle was manufactured after the year 1998 most likely had a chip in it.
Hence, if you’ve lost your Audi key and it had a chip in it, the key will have to be programmed/ coded on-site in order to start the car.
An automotive locksmith for Audi keys replacement can do that on-site. Alternatively, you can contact the dealer, but the car will have to be towed there.
In addition, for models newer than 2005, we would recommend contacting the dealer, as most locksmiths do not have the necessary coding machine to program newer Audi keys.
Below are examples of the different types of Audi keys and remote “push to start button” fobs:
Fob car key – Fob remote “push to start” car key: Usually looks like some sort of remote. This fob car key has a chip and therefore will need to be programmed.
Fob car key – Fob “push to start” car key: Usually looks like some sort of remote. This fob car key has a chip and therefore will need to be programmed.
The next image is of an Audi key that has a transponder chip in it and therefore NEEDS to be coded. The chip is located inside the cover at the top.
The next image is of an Audi key that doesn’t contain a chip and therefore DOES NOT NEED to be coded. It’s a simple metal key.
Q: I lost my 2019 Audi Q7 car key, and have no spare. I need to know how long does it take and do you make replacement Audi keys on site?
A: The process for a new Audi key or fob, can take up to two days to complete. That depends on how many keys are already programmed into the system. If you had one or two keys and they both lost, then the dealer should be able to program you a new key within an hour or two.
However, in case more than 5 (depends on which model you have) keys have already been lost, a new computer may be needed to be ordered and replaced and therefore the process will take longer.
Q: My 2006 Audi A4 ignition key won’t turn and my steering wheel is locked. What is the reason and can you change my ignition for me? What should I do? How can I get a new Audi ignition?
A: There are a number of reasons why the ignition key won’t turn. The key may be worn out, or jammed; the ignition may be rusty or its wafers broken. An automotive locksmith for Audi cars can determine the reason on-site and solve the problem. We can help you in this scenario.
Remember that losing your Audi ignition key does not mean that you have to change the ignition. In most cases, you won’t have to.
For more information please visit: My ignition key won’t turn
Q: Can you explain why there is a difference in the cost of replacement keys between Audi models? What would be the price for a newer model at the dealer VS an automotive locksmith?
A: The price for Audi key replacement varies depends on the make and model. There are mainly two different types of Audi keys when it comes to replacement key cost:
- Non-transponder chip key – No need to program the key.
- Transponder chip keys/ Remotes keys – Coding is needed. Dealer only option
Here we will give an example of what the expected price for a key replacement would be:
Non-transponder replacement key cost –
Dealer:
Since no programming is needed, you can call the dealer to cut you a new replacement key and pick it up at your convenience.
However, in case the ignition was changed before, as may happen with older models, the codes the dealer has on file will not work and therefore the key won’t turn in the ignition.
In addition, important to remember that the dealer has only codes for the original ignition and up to certain years on file. In case the car is too old, it may be a problem to get a replacement key from the dealer.
Estimated cost: Usually around $75 for a new key.
Automotive locksmith:
A locksmith usually charges a service fee plus the cost of the parts and labor for a replacement key. Therefore, you should expect to pay more than the dealer would charge.
However, since the cost of a non-transponder chip key is minor you shouldn’t pay much more than the dealer charge and you have the convenience of a solution at your location as many locksmiths offer mobile service.
In addition, since the cost of a non-transponder chip key is minor(compared to a transponder) you shouldn’t pay much more than the dealer charge and you have the convenience of a solution at your location as many locksmiths offer mobile service.
Estimated cost: Usually around $135.
Transponder chip / “push to start” / fob / remote Audi replacement key cost –
Dealer:
These types of keys have to be programmed in order to start the car and therefore the car will have to be towed to the dealership which will result in an additional cost.
The estimated cost for a transponder key: Usually around $400 for a new key.
An estimated cost for a remote key: Usually around $950 for a new key.
Automotive locksmith:
An automotive locksmith usually doesn’t carry the necessary keys and equipment to regenerate new Audi key fobs or transponder. Therefore, the dealer is the only option.
Q: Can I get an Audi key replacement by VIN?
A: That depends on the year of manufacture of your car and the type of key you had.
The VIN gives Audi dealers or automotive locksmiths the option of accessing the key code on file – i.e., to cut you a replacement key by code which makes the process very fast and easy. There are however two things to consider:
- For vehicles older than 15 years: Audi dealers may not keep a record for vehicles older than 15 years. An automotive locksmith is therefore your only option to get a replacement key.
- For vehicles equipped with a transponder system and/or a remote/intelligent key/fob key: Codes are available. However, as coding is required, you will have to tow the car to the dealer.
Click here to learn more about VIN number.
Q: My 2015 Audi A4 smart key will not start the car. The battery is new, the lights are on and the radio works. What may be the reason?
A: There are a couple of reasons for the key not starting the car – it could be a mechanical problem or a key-related problem. Please visit: My ignition key won’t start the car for more information.
Q: Audi key cutting – Who can cut and program a new key for my car? Can I get it done at any hardware store or should I go to an automotive locksmith or dealer? What is the procedure and how much does it cost?
A: There are many different types of Audi keys. Some can be cut with a basic cutting machine (mostly for older models made before 1995) and some, such as laser cut keys, can only be cut with a more advanced machine, which not all locksmiths carry, and definitely not hardware stores. Therefore, you should do your research before you decide where to get your Audi key cut.
The next image is of a non-transponder regular key on a cutting machine:
The next image is of a high-security cutting machine:
In addition, there are a few things to consider:
As mentioned above, your best bet would be to contact the dealer as replacing Audi keys require not only a special cutting machine but also unique programming tools and software. However, if this is not an emergency and would like to do your research you may be able to find a locksmith who can help. here are some tips to help you save some money.
First, you have to remember that cutting a new Audi key probably won’t be enough for you to start your vehicle as most Audi models made after 2000 requires coding in addition to cutting the key. Saying that, you will have to take care of coding the keys as well AFTER you had your key cut.
The next image is of a cut key (or key fob) and a programming machine for Audi models:
Second, try to get the key code, which makes the process of cutting a new key very fast, from your dealer. They should be able to provide it for you after verification that you are the owner. Once you have this code, any locksmith should be able to cut you the key within minutes, and it would be cheaper as well.
How much should you expect to pay for cutting your Audi key? (Not including coding/programming)
Laser-cut keys or remote emergency keys – About $90 if you have the key code. (If not about $130)
Regular key, transponder keys – about $40 if you have the key code. (If not about $80)
Audi key fob battery replacement – Cost, size, what do to when the battery is dead and more.
Most of Audi models made after 2005 use a key fob, or a push to start remote key technology. This type of key has advanced security features, as well as built-in keyless entry and more.
This type of key fob is battery operated. Once in a while, there are some issues with the key fob because of this battery. We will go over some important information and a few tips about what to do when the battery is dead, how to change the battery, cost, and some technical information.
Most of Audi models key fobs use the same battery which is CR2032. This battery is very common and you can find it in most hardware stores, AutoZone, locksmith shop and online. You can order it here.
Here is an example of an Audi key fob battery replacement.
Before we get into some specific information, here is some useful information you must know:
First, if you are locked out of your car because the key fob battery is dead you can use the emergency key provided with the key to unlock the car door.
In addition, if you want to start your vehicle, you can do it by placing the key fob in the charging area once you are in the car. This way, you will be able to start your vehicle EVEN if the battery is dead. If you are not sure where is the designated charging area, you should check the owner’s manual.
Finally, let the key fob charge until you get to a place when you can replace the key fob battery.
Price of Audi key fob battery: Usually less than $6
We also recommend getting a cover or a case for the key fob to keep it in better condition. Audi key fob cover/case cost about $10-$15 and definitely worth the price. You can order it online here
Technical information: (Click for more information from Panasonic)
Diameter(mm): 20
Height(mm): 3.2
Voltage(V): 3
Audi key fob battery replacement:
The process of replacing the key fob battery is very simple. You can use a small flat head screwdriver to disassemble the key fob. Then simply take the old battery and replace it with a new one.
Programming information:
After replacing the key fob battery, there is no need to do any special programming. The key fob should work as usual.
However, if you just bought a new key fob, you will need to have it programmed to start the car. This can be done by the dealership.