How Much to Get a Car Key Cut

A new car key can cost more than you expect. This is because keys have different features.

If your car is equipped with a traditional metal key that has no chip or fob you can duplicate it at a reasonable cost at the majority of hardware stores or locksmiths. Certain keys require specialized equipment to duplicate.

What kind of Key?

There are many different kinds of car keys and the type you're using will determine how much it will cost you to purchase an replacement. Car keys that do not contain transponder chips are simple to replace, and they can be duplicated at most hardware stores for a small fee. However, more modern key fobs require special equipment to be programmed for your specific vehicle, and so may require the services of a professional.

The original key is placed on a duplication machine and used as a template to create a standard car key. A blank key is placed over the existing one and cut, making a duplicate of the original key that will unlock and start your vehicle. It is also possible to have an anti-theft or valet key with a transponder to prevent theft. These keys have slightly thicker shanks and less carved out grooves than standard keys, and are more difficult to duplicate.

Another kind of car key is a laser-cut key, or sidewinder keys. They are more expensive to copy than standard keys, and they also require special machines to program them, which are usually only available through dealerships. These keys have a unique pattern on the blade of the key that makes them more difficult to duplicate. They are typically used in high-end vehicles.

If you require a duplicate key and have lost yours, you can often get one from a hardware shop although the quality might not be as good as the original. If your vehicle is equipped with a fob with a transponder chip you'll need to go to a locksmith or a dealership.

Certain auto parts chains such as AutoZone also have car key copying services. They can make basic keys and in certain cases, replace the key fob. They're generally less expensive than a locksmith, though they're not able to make spare keys that work with your specific vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Most modern cars come with a type of key called chip keys or transponders. These keys are larger than keys made of metal, and they contain tiny chips. The goal of these chips is to make it very difficult to take your car away. When you insert your transponder key into the ignition cylinder, the chip will send out an radio frequency signal that contains an identification number. The immobilizer in the car will scan the code and determine if they are compatible. If not, it will stop the engine from beginning.

If you're in need of a new transponder key, it's best to contact an expert locksmith who will be able to copy your key using a special machine that reads the information from your car's system and match it to the appropriate code. This is a process that requires specialized tools, which are normally only available at professional locksmiths and dealerships.

There are a variety of transponder keys that are available each with its own unique functionality. They all perform the same function by sending out a signal which consists of letters or numbers. The computer in the vehicle scans this signal to determine if it matches the code. If it matches the code, the immobilizer will be disabled and the vehicle will not be able start.

Depending on the transponder type you might have to press one or more buttons to open the doors or start the engine. This is a security feature that will prevent someone from accidentally starting your car while you're driving it or if you carry the key in your pocket.

You may be able to get an alternative key from the dealership for less money than what you would pay an automotive locksmith to cut and program the key transponder. AutoZone can duplicate GM transponder key (such as VATS Circle Plus and PK3 keys) and also include a blade and pairing your car at a fraction the cost.

Key Fobs

The key fobs used to manage the functionality of vehicles and access are not indestructible. As with any piece of technology used by consumers they spend a lot of their time in purses and pockets which makes them vulnerable to damage caused by drops of water, drops of rain or other mishaps. It's not uncommon for them to cease functioning at some point. If this happens to yours then you might want to visit a dealer. They usually have the latest equipment to program replacement fobs and can do it quickly.

It's best to inquire with your dealer for an estimate. Some dealers will program replacement key fobs for free or at a discounted cost when replacing one that was lost. If you're not prepared to spend a significant amount of money, you can also consider an automotive locksmith. We recommend choosing one that has a key-fob scanning service, which allows them to provide a replacement remote programmed to your specific vehicle taking the unique codes from the vehicle identification number.

Some replacement key fobs contain what's known as a switchblade key. It folds inside the plastic of the fob when in use. It can be removed at the touch of a button. These types can run between $200 and $300 to replace, plus a trip to the dealership for key programming.

In addition to key fobs, some vehicles have smart keys that can be integrated with security systems that are advanced and let you start your car key copy with a smartphone or Car Key Copy other device. These are usually more expensive to replace and buy, as well as being more difficult to program.

Although the technology behind key fobs is advancing however, there's no alternative to a physical car key. There are older models that do not have key fobs, and instead have an ordinary key with an iron key blade that can be turned to lock or unlock doors. You can cut a key made of metal at most hardware or auto parts stores.

If you're looking for ways to save money, take a look at the options available at an auto key cutting store like Batteries Plus. We can program and cut the majority of car key fobs at only a fraction of the price of the dealership. We're often open later than a dealer, so you can visit us after work.

Keys made of metal Keys

Prior to recently the majority of cars were equipped with traditional keys for starting their car. These are the basic metal blades cut to fit a particular car's lock, and they don't contain any kind of computer chip or remote head. You can replace a traditional car key by visiting a hardware store or locksmith that provides key cutting services. The professionals will duplicate the key you have and will give you a spare in the event of a loss or break.

You can also purchase a metal key online however it's best to check with the seller first. Some online sellers offer cheap, low-quality spare keys that aren't made of genuine authentic OEM parts. These replacement keys that are cheap aren't just less reliable, they can cause damage to the locking cylinders in your car. Choose a reliable car key service who offers both electronic replacements and traditional spare metal keys. They'll help you determine the best option based on your car's type and model, ensuring that you don't purchase the wrong key for your car and waste your money.

It is recommended to seek out a professional who uses laser cutting technology when you need a new car key. This allows them to make keys that are more durable and accurate and makes it difficult to replicate by thieves. Your local automotive key cutting locksmith can supply you with traditional transponder or metal key.

If you're done with your old spare key, it's best to recycle it at an area that recycles scrap metal in your town or city. Check with the sanitation department of your city to find out if it's accepted as part of curbside collection. You can also use an online guide, like Earth911 to find out how to recycle this type metal waste. Be sure to take off the plastic cover and keyring first. This makes it easier to recycle the metal. If you are unable to locate a local facility that takes these items as well, they can be disposed of at a variety of large landfills.