Short answer
Replacing a lost car key in Melbourne typically costs $180 to $400 AUD, depending on the type of key your vehicle uses. SMS53 Locksmiths charges $180–$250 for a flip key and $280–$400 for a smart (proximity) key, with cutting and programming completed on site. A dealership will usually charge more and may require the vehicle to be towed in. There is no single “lost car key” price, because the cost is set by your key type, not by the fact that you lost it.
Quick price reference (SMS53 Locksmiths, Melbourne, 2026)
| Service | Price (AUD) | What it covers |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile automotive locksmith | Dealership | |
| Flip key replacement | $180 – $250 | Supply, cut and program a flip-style key |
| Smart key replacement | $280 – $400 | Supply and program a proximity / push-button start key |
| Remote programming | $100 – $150 | Programming an existing or supplied remote to your car |
| Broken key replacement | $100 – $150 | Extracting and replacing a snapped key |
| Car lockout (entry only) | $120 | Non-destructive entry when you still have your key |
| Garage & gate remotes | $100 – $150 | Supply and programming |
| Where the work happens | At your car, wherever it is | At the dealership |
| Towing required | No | Usually, if you’ve lost all keys |
| Typical turnaround | Same day, often within the hour | Days, if the key must be ordered |
| Booking | 24/7, including weekends | Business hours |
| Old keys deleted from car | Available on many models | Available |
| Typical total cost | Lower — no tow, no ordering fee | Higher — key, programming, tow, labour |
