How Much to Get a Car Key Cut

A new car key may cost more than you expected. The reason is that different keys have distinct characteristics.

If your car has a traditional metal key with no chip or fob that you want to duplicate, you can do so for a relatively low price at the majority of hardware stores or locksmiths. Certain keys, however, require specialized equipment to duplicate.

What Kind of Keys Are There?

There are many different kinds of keys for cars, and the type you have determines how much it will cost to get an alternative. Standard car keys that don't contain transponder chips are easy to replace, and they can be duplicated in most hardware stores for a small cost. However, more modern key fobs require special equipment to be programmed to your specific vehicle, and so may require the assistance of a professional.

The original key is placed on a duplication device, and used as a template to create an ordinary car key. The blank key is then placed over the original one and cut to create a duplicate key that can unlock your car and open it. You may also have a valet or anti-theft key with a transponder chip to deter theft. They are difficult to copy because they have slightly larger shanks, fewer grooves and a thinner profile than standard keys.

Another type of car key is a laser-cut or sidewinder keys. They're more expensive to duplicate than normal keys and require special programming equipment that is only available in dealerships. These keys have a unique pattern in the blade of the key, which makes them harder to duplicate. They are commonly used in luxury automobiles.

If you have lost your keys and require a duplicate it is possible to find one at a hardware store, although the quality of the keys might not be as good as the original. If, however, your vehicle has a fob that incorporates transponder chips it is necessary to visit a locksmith or dealership.

Certain auto parts chains such as AutoZone also have car key copying services. They can cut keys of any type and, in some instances, even replace the key fob if you need to. They usually cost less than a professional locksmith however, they are unable to create spare keys for your particular vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Most modern cars come with a type of key called a transponder or chip key. These keys are bigger than keys made of metal, and they contain a small chip. The purpose of these chips is to make it difficult to steal your car. When you insert your transponder key into the ignition cylinder the chip will send out an radio frequency signal that includes an identification code. The car's immobilizer will then examine the code to determine if it is compatible and won't allow your engine to begin when it doesn't.

If you need a new transponder, it's best that you contact a locksmith. They can duplicate your key cut service using an equipment that can read information from your vehicle's system and match the code. This process requires specialized tools, which are typically only available from professional locksmiths or dealerships.

There are a variety of transponder keys that each have their own unique functionality. In general, however they all function in similar in that they send out a signal that includes an array of letters or numbers. The computer in the vehicle scans the signal to determine if it matches the code. If it does, the immobilizer will be removed and the vehicle will be unable to start.

Depending on the type of transponder key you have, it might require you to press one or more buttons in order to unlock the doors or start the engine. This is a safety measure to prevent anyone from accidentally starting your car while driving or when the key is in your pocket.

Depending on the manufacturer of your car, you might be able to purchase an alternative key from the dealership at a lower cost than to have an automotive locksmith cut and program a transponder lock. AutoZone is one example. It is able to duplicate GM transponder keys (such as the VATS Circle Plus or PK3 key) and includes the cutting of a blade and the pairing with your car and all at a fraction of the cost of the dealership.

Key Fobs

The key fobs used to control modern access and vehicle functionality aren't indestructible. Like all pieces of technology used by consumers they spend the majority of their lives tucked away in purses and pockets which makes them vulnerable to damage from water, a drop of drops or other misfortunes. As a result, it's not unusual for them to cease working at some point. If this happens to yours then you might want to visit a dealership. They have the most up-to-date equipment to program replacement fobs, and they can do it quickly.

It's best to ask your dealer for an estimation. Some dealers will program a new car key cut key fob for free or at a discounted prices if you're replacing an old one. You can also make use of an automotive key cutting near me locksmith if you don't need to spend much money. We recommend choosing one that offers a key-fob scanning service which enables the locksmith to provide an alternative remote that is programmed for your specific vehicle by taking the unique codes from the Vehicle Identification Number.

Some replacement key fobs come with a "switchblade" key that folds into the plastic of the key fob when not in use, and can be pulled out by pressing a button. These types of key fobs are priced between $200 to $300, and include the cost of a visit to the dealer to program the keys.

In addition to key fobs, a few cars provide smart keys that work with security systems that are advanced and allow you to start your car with smartphones or other devices. They are generally more expensive to purchase and replace, as well as more difficult to program.

The technology behind key fobs may be advanced however a car key is still the best choice. Certain older models don't have key fobs and instead have a standard key with a metal key blade that's turned to lock or open the doors. You can cut a metal key at most hardware or auto parts stores.

Batteries Plus is a great place to look for ways to save money. We can cut and program the majority of car key fobs for roughly 50% less than what a dealership's cost. We are often open later than a dealership, so you can stop by after work.

Keys made of metal Keys

Up until recently, the majority of cars used traditional metal keys for starting their car Key copy. These are basic metal blades, which are specifically designed to fit a specific car's lock. They don't contain any computer chip or remote. If you lose a traditional key you can usually replace it by visiting a hardware store or locksmith that provides key cutting services for cars. They will duplicate the key you have and give you an additional key in case of loss or breaks.

A metal key can also be purchased online, though it is essential to verify with the seller prior to buying. Some of these online vendors offer cheap, low-quality spare keys that aren't made from genuine OEM parts. These cheap replacement keys not only are less reliable, but they could cause damage to the locking cylinders in your car. Choose a reputable car key service who offers both electronic replacements and traditional spare metal keys. They'll assist you in determining the most appropriate option based on your car's type and model, ensuring that you don't buy the wrong key for your car and waste your money.

It's best to go to an expert who utilizes laser cutting technology if you need a new car key. This allows them to design keys that are more accurate and durable, making them harder for thieves to duplicate. If you're looking for a traditional metal key or a sophisticated transponder key you can be certain that the locksmith in your area has the tools and experience to get the job done correctly.

If you have an old spare key for metal that is no longer needed, it is best to recycle it in an area that has a scrap metal center within your town or city. Contact your city's sanitation department to determine whether they will accept it as part of their curbside collection, or use an online guide like Earth911 to discover which recycling facilities can accept this type of metal waste. Make sure to remove the keyring and plastic cover first. This will help you recycle. If you are unable to locate a nearby location that accepts these materials, they can also be disposed of at a variety of large landfills.