Lost-key deletion & automotive rekeying in Burbank, CA
If a key is lost, stolen or still with someone who shouldn’t have it, getting a new key doesn’t stop the old one from working. Deletion removes the missing key from the car’s electronic memory. Rekeying changes the mechanical locks so the old blade no longer turns them.
Electronic authorization and mechanical locks
Your vehicle has two independent layers of security. The electronic layer, the immobilizer and keyless entry, keeps a list of keys it will accept. The mechanical layer, the door, trunk and ignition cylinders, responds to the shape of a blade. Dealing with one does not change the other.
Deleting a missing key
The vehicle’s list of authorized keys is updated so the missing key is no longer accepted for starting or remote entry. On some vehicles a single key can be removed; on others, every key is erased and the keys you still have are registered again.
Programming a replacement
Adding a new key is a separate step from deleting an old one, though they are often done in the same visit. See smart key & transponder programming.
Mechanical rekeying
Where the lost key has a metal blade that could still open a door or turn the ignition, the cylinders can be rekeyed or changed so that blade no longer fits. A new key is then cut to match. Whether this is possible or needed depends on the vehicle.
When people ask for this
- A key was stolen with a bag or wallet that also showed your address.
- A key is still with a former employee, partner or tenant.
- You bought a used vehicle and don’t know how many keys exist.
- You have lost your car keys and want the new key to be the only one that works.
What may be performed
Key audit
We read how many keys the vehicle currently accepts, where the car allows it.
Deletion and re-registration
Missing keys are removed and the keys you have are confirmed or registered again.
Rekey or match
Mechanical cylinders are rekeyed or matched when the lost blade is a risk. When the ignition cylinder needs work, see Car Ignition Service.
What to expect
Tell us what’s missing
VIN, how many keys you have, and how many you think exist.
Confirm what’s possible
We check whether your vehicle supports deleting a single key and whether rekeying makes sense, then quote.
Update and test
At the vehicle we update the key list, rekey if agreed, and test every remaining key.
Frequently asked questions
Can every car delete a single key?
No. Some vehicles only allow erasing all keys and re-adding the ones present. We confirm from your VIN which applies.
Do I need rekeying if I delete the key?
Not always. Deletion stops the missing key from starting the car. If that key’s blade could still open the doors, rekeying closes that gap.
Should I bring all my keys?
Yes. Any key not present during the visit may stop working if the vehicle requires a full re-registration.
Where we provide this service
We do key deletion and rekeying at the vehicle in Burbank, and regularly in Glendale and La Crescenta-Montrose. It is often booked alongside a replacement key, so both are handled in one visit.
Related automotive services
A current registration or title and matching government-issued photo identification must be verified before automotive key, lock, or immobilizer service is performed.
Get a quote
Call
Tell dispatch how many keys you have and how many are missing.
Text
Send your VIN and what you want done.