Chevrolet (Chevy) Key Replacement
Chevrolet, and GM brands in general, have a mix of older key types and newer smart keys. Many Chevrolets from the 1990s used simple keys or the VATS keys (which had a visible resistor chip pellet) – those could often be duplicated relatively easily by reading the code. Newer Chevys (2000s onward) moved to transponder keys and now push-button start fobs on some models. The good news is that Chevrolet keys are not as restricted as some luxury brands; many locksmiths can cut and program Chevy keys with standard equipment. Typical costs: A dealership might charge anywhere from $125 up to $350 for providing and programming a new key for a modern Chevy, plus a labor fee for pairing it to the car’s computer (often another $100 or so). So a dealer total could be around $225–$450 depending on the model and type of key (plain key vs. remote fob). An automotive locksmith can usually beat that price. For instance, if a dealer is charging $300, a locksmith might do it for $150-$200. There are also hardware store options for certain GM keys – e.g., some Home Depot or Ace locations can clone common GM transponder keys if you have one working key, often for under $75. For push-to-start “smart” key fobs (found on higher-end Chevy models or newer ones like the Camaro, Corvette, etc.), you will need programming via computer; locksmiths can do this as well, typically for less than the dealer. It’s worth noting that “Chevrolet” and “Chevy” are the same thing – Chevy is just the nickname – so any replacement key page or service should target both terms. (Yes, from an SEO perspective, it makes sense to combine Chevrolet and Chevy key information on one page, since users might search either term. They refer to the same brand, so one page can optimize for both.)In practice, you won’t find separate procedures for a “Chevy key” versus a “Chevrolet key” – a locksmith or dealer uses the vehicle model and year to determine the key type. If you’ve lost a Chevrolet key, generally you have the standard three options: 1) Call a mobile locksmith who can come to you and make a new key on site, 2) Go to (or tow to) a Chevrolet dealership for a new key, or 3) Obtain a blank key yourself (online or from a parts store) and then have it cut & programmed by either a locksmith or dealer. Option 1 is often the fastest and quite cost-effective for Chevys. To give a concrete example, replacing a key for a Chevy Silverado pickup might cost $120–$170 through a locksmith, whereas a dealer might be $250+. A specific source notes that a Chevy Silverado key replacement can range $120 to $370 depending on circumstances. As always, having a spare made in advance (when you still have a working key) can save a lot of money – some Chevrolets allow owners to program a new spare key themselves if two keys are already available (as outlined in the owner’s manual). In summary, Chevrolet/Chevy key copy and replacement is relatively straightforward for locksmiths, and you should definitely compare prices. Combining “Chevrolet” and “Chevy” into one discussion is logical, since any competent service will handle both – it’s the same process.
U.S. Models & Years
Sedans: Malibu (1964–1983; 1997–2024); Impala (1958–2020); Cruze (2011–2019); Cavalier (1982–2005; China import 2016–2020 U.S.); Sonic (2012–2020); Spark (2013–2022);
Sports: Camaro (1967–2002; 2010–present); Corvette (1953–present); Monte Carlo (1970–2007);
SUVs: Suburban (1935–present); Tahoe (1995–present); Blazer (1969–2005; revived 2019–present); TrailBlazer (2002–2009; revived 2021–present); Equinox (2005–present); Traverse (2009–present); HHR (2006–2011); Captiva Sport (2012–2014 fleet);
Trucks/Vans: Silverado 1500/HD (1999–present); Colorado (2004–2012; 2015–present); Express Van (1996–present); Astro (1985–2005); Avalanche (2002–2013);
EVs: Volt (2011–2019); Bolt EV (2017–2023); Bolt EUV (2022–2023); Blazer EV (2024–present); Equinox EV (2024–present); Silverado EV (2024–present).
Mazda
Aiphone
CDVI
Ram
Defiant
Volkswagen

