There are a few different ways how one can replace a lost/damaged key depending on how fast you want it, how cheap you want it, and how original you want it. The first and safest method is by going directly to a Porsche dealership and asking for a new key, but this is also the most expensive option.
Not only is this the most expensive option, yet it is also the one that takes the longest. On the other hand, you may be able to contact an experienced locksmith who has decent experience working with high-end car keys. They are able to replace the key a lot faster and a lot cheaper.
It also depends on which type of Porsche you own. If you own an older Porsche model that uses a standard steel blade key, the easiest and cheapest thing you can do is simply contact an experienced locksmith. On the other hand, if your Porsche uses keyless-entry through a key fob, this is a bit more difficult.
Some locksmiths are still able to help you but only if they use original parts. On the other hand, if you want to retain the value of your car properly, you should go for a dealership replacement as this is the safest option of them all.
Key fob replacements vs steel blade key replacements
As mentioned in the beginning, replacing a key fob and a steel blade key is not nearly the same. A steel blade key can easily be forged without needing programming which means that this is the easiest and cheapest way of getting a brand-new key.
However, replacing a key fob is an entirely different story, especially if your Porsche comes with keyless start and keyless go functionality. As these systems work wirelessly, you will have to acquire all the original parts which need to be programmed to your car specifically.
This is something that needs to be done according to Porsche manufacturing standards, otherwise, it makes no sense. Indeed, some locksmiths will also do this for you, but they will have to use original Porsche parts.
There are ways how one can manufacture a key even without original Porsche parts, but this is unsafe and is likely going to hamper your car’s resale value. Don’t sell unoriginal Porsche keys as original ones as they are never as safe as original Porsche keys are.
Replacing a Porsche key at a locksmith
You need to keep in mind that Porsche will never agree to you replacing your key at a locksmith’s. They will be able to tell whenever you take your car for a service that you are not using an original key. Even if you use original parts, there is still a great deal of chance that they might realize.
As such, it’s never a good idea to recommend to anyone that they should replace their keys anywhere else besides a dealership. Car keys serve an important function because they gain entry to the car and they enable you to drive the car off at any time.
If you own an older Porsche model and you simply just want it to keep running, a locksmith might make more sense. This also means that a steel blade Porsche key does not require original parts and the reality of it is that this is not nearly as unsafe as an unoriginal key fob.
Replacing a Porsche key at a dealership
Replacing a Porsche key at a dealership costs more money and it takes longer to finish. They are likely going to order a brand new key directly from the factory, ship it to the dealership and someone is then going to program the car to work with your car.
This way you will be able to sell the car with all the original keys and everything is fine with the world. On the other hand, if you try and manufacture a key from unoriginal parts at your local locksmith, you are never too sure that the key will work or if the key is safe.
Given the fact that Porsches are being stolen left and right, it’s better to just go through the dealership because you are not going to replace your key more than once. The reality is that you should do it once and be done with it.
FAQ Section
How much does a new Porsche key cost through a dealer?
It depends on the model and the type of key it uses. If you own an older Porsche model that uses a regular steel blade key, you are looking at a few hundred dollars at the very maximum. However, if you need a new key fob that also needs to be reprogramed, it is going to cost you anywhere between $200-1100 depending on part prices, part availability, and labor costs.
If your key is broken and it only needs fixing, you can just take it to a Porsche dealership and they can fix it for you in no time. The costs of fixing a Porsche key depend on what is wrong with it, but it’s safe to say that it is not going to cost more than completely replacing it.
How much does a new Porsche key cost through a locksmith?
It depends on the type of key, the availability of parts, and if the parts are original or not. Sometimes a locksmith might replace your entire lock which is obviously going to cost a lot more. On the other hand, if you simply need a regular blade steel key, you are looking at around $30-$80.
If you want to replace your Porsche key fob through a locksmith, you should be able to get a better price than in the dealership. However, it’s always better to go through the dealership route if you want to maintain your car’s value and keep it as safe as possible.
Are Porsches getting stolen often?
Porsches are indeed a fairly popular choice for thieves which means that a Porsche with an unoriginal key fob that can easily be scanned is not the best thing you can do. If you ensure your Porsche against theft while also using a non-original Porsche key fob, chances are that you will not be able to cash in your insurance if your car indeed gets stolen.
This is simply not worth it, so just go through the dealership route as most people will need a new car key once in their lifetime.