How Much to Get a Car Key Cut

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

If your car uses a traditional metal key with no chip or fob that you want to duplicate, you can do so at a reasonable cost at most hardware stores or locksmiths. Certain keys, however, require special equipment to duplicate.

What kind of keys are There?

The type of car key you have will determine the cost for a replacement. Keys for standard cars that do not have transponder chips are easily replaced and are sold at most hardware stores. Modern key fobs could require the assistance of a professional to program them for your vehicle.

The original key is positioned on a duplication device and used as a template to make an ordinary car key. The blank key is placed over the original key and cut to create a duplicate key that can unlock your car and start it. You might also have an anti-theft or valet key that has a transponder chip to deter theft. These keys have slightly thicker shanks and less carved out grooves than standard keys and are more difficult to copy.

Another kind of car key is a laser-cut or sidewinder keys. They're more expensive to duplicate than normal keys and require special programming machines that are only available in dealerships. These keys have a distinctive design in the blade of the key, which makes them harder to duplicate. They are often used in luxury vehicles.

If you require a duplicate key but have lost it You can usually get one from a hardware store, though the quality might not be the same as the original. However, if your car uses a fob with a transponder chip it is necessary to visit a locksmith or a dealership.

Some auto parts stores, like AutoZone, also offer key duplication services for cars. They can cut keys of any type, and in some cases even replace the key fob if you need to. They're generally less expensive than a locksmith, though they're not able to make spares that will work with your particular car.

Transponder Keys

Most modern cars come with keys that are called chip or transponder keys. They are more substantial than keys made of metal and include an extremely small chip. These chips are designed to make it difficult for someone to take your vehicle. When you put your transponder in the ignition cylinder, it will transmit a radio signal which contains an identification. The car's immobilizer will then look up the code to determine if it matches and won't allow the engine to start in the event that it doesn't.

If you need a new transponder, it's best that you speak with an locksmith key cutting. They'll be able to duplicate your key using an instrument that can read information from your vehicle's system and match the code. This process requires special tools that are usually only available from professional locksmiths or some dealerships.

There are a variety of transponder key that each have their own unique functionality. In general, they perform the same function, sending out a message that contains a sequence of numbers or letters. This signal is then scanned by the computer in the vehicle to determine if the code matches up. If it matches the immobilizer is removed and the vehicle will not be able start.

Depending on the type of transponder key, it might require you to push one or more buttons to unlock the doors or start the engine. This is a safety feature that prevents people from getting your car started while you're driving or when you have the key in your pocket.

You could be able to obtain an alternative key from the dealership for less money than the cost of an automotive locksmith to cut and program a key transponder. AutoZone can duplicate GM transponder key (such as VATS Circle Plus and PK3 keys) and also include an ax and a pair for your car for a fraction of the price.

Key Fobs

Key fobs that control vehicle access and functionality are not impervious to destruction. Like any piece of technology used by consumers they spend the majority of their lives tucked away in purses and pockets, making them susceptible to damage caused by water, a dropped drop or any other mishaps. In the end, it's not uncommon for them to stop functioning at some point. If this happens to yours then you might want to visit a dealer. They typically have the most current technology for programming replacement fobs and can do it quickly.

It's best to inquire with your dealer for an estimation. Some dealers will program a new key fob for free or at a lower cost if you're replacing a lost one. If you're not ready to spend a significant amount of money, you could consider a locksmith for your car. We recommend selecting one that provides scans of the key fob that allows them to provide a replacement remote programmed specifically for your vehicle by reading its unique codes from the vehicle identification number.

Certain replacement key fobs have the switchblade key. It folds inside the plastic of the fob when not in use, and then pops out at the touch of the button. These types of key fobs are priced between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of a visit to the dealer to program the keys.

Some cars come with smart keys, which are similar to key fobs but come with advanced security features and permit you to start your car using smartphones. They are generally more expensive to replace and buy and are more difficult to program.

The technology behind key fobs might be cutting-edge but a traditional car key is still the best choice. Some older models do not have key fobs, but instead use an ordinary key that comes with an iron blade. It is used to lock and unlock the doors. You can cut a key made of metal at most hardware or auto parts stores.

If you're looking to save money, take a look at the options at an automotive retailer like Batteries Plus. We can program and cut most car key fobs for less than the cost of the dealership. We're usually open later than a dealership, so you can stop by after work.

Metal Keys

In the past, the majority of cars utilized traditional keys to start their cars. They are the basic metal blades that were cut to fit a particular car's lock, and they do not include any remote head or computer chip. You can replace a traditional car key by visiting the hardware store or locksmith that offers key cutting services. These professionals will duplicate your existing key and will give you a spare in the event of a loss or break.

You can also purchase a metal key online, but it's best to talk to the seller first. Some of these online sellers sell cheap, low-quality spare keys that aren't made from genuine authentic OEM parts. These low-quality replacement keys aren't just less reliable, but they may cause damage to your car's lock cylinders and cause premature failure. Instead, choose a reliable car key service that has both traditional spare metal keys as well as electronic replacements. They'll help you choose the best option based on your car's type and model, to ensure that you don't buy the incorrect key for your vehicle and waste your money.

When you need the creation of a new key for your car, it's best to seek out a professional that uses laser cutting technology. This allows them to create keys that are more durable and precise and makes it difficult to replicate by thieves. The Locksmith Key Cutting in your area can supply you with traditional transponder or metal key.

If you're done with your old spare metal key, you can recycle it at an existing scrap metal recycling facility in your town or city. Make contact with your municipal sanitation department to see if they accept it as part of their curbside collection, or use an online guide such as Earth911 to find out the best places to recycle this type of metal waste. Be sure to take off the plastic cover and keyring first. This will help you recycle. You can also dispose of these items in large landfills if you are not able to find an establishment in your area that can accept these items.