How Much to Get a Car Key Cut
A new car key may cost more than you expected. That's because different keys have different features.
If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned metal key with no chip or fob that you want to duplicate, you can do so at a reasonable cost at the majority of 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 of a replacement. Keys for standard cars that don't contain transponder chips are easy to replace and can be duplicated in most hardware stores for a small cost. Modern key fobs may require a professional to program them to your vehicle.
The original key is placed on a duplication device and used as a template for an ordinary car key. A blank key is then placed over the existing one and cut, creating a duplicate of the original key that will unlock and start your car. Depending on your car you might also have an anti-theft key or valet key with a transponder chip that communicates with your car's security system to stop theft. These keys are harder to duplicate due to their slightly larger shanks, fewer grooves and a smaller profile than standard keys.
A laser-cut car key, also called a sidewinder, is another type of key. These are more expensive to copy than standard keys, and they also require specialized equipment to program them, which are generally only available through dealerships. They have a distinct pattern in the blade of the key, which makes them more difficult to duplicate. They are commonly used in luxury automobiles.
If you require a duplicate key and lost it You can usually get one from a hardware store although the quality might not be as good as the original. However, if your car uses a fob with transponder chips you'll need to go to a locksmith or a dealership.
Some auto parts stores, such as AutoZone also provide key duplication for cars. They can cut standard keys and, in certain cases, even replace the key fob in case you require. They're generally less expensive than a locksmith, though they can't create spare keys that work with your particular car.
Transponder Keys
Chip keys or transponder keys are commonly used in modern automobiles. car key cutting and programming are typically larger than regular metal keys and have a tiny electronic chip inside them. These chips are designed to make it hard for someone to take your vehicle. When you insert your transponder key into the ignition cylinder, the chip will emit the radio frequency signal which includes an identification code. The immobilizer in your vehicle will scan the code to determine if the codes match. If not, it will block your engine from starting.
If you're in the market for a new transponder keys you should contact an expert locksmith who will be capable of copying your key with a machine that will read the information from your car's system and match it with the appropriate code. This process requires specialized tools that are usually only available from professional locksmiths or some dealerships.
There are many different kinds of transponder keys in existence, each with its own distinct capabilities. In general, they all operate the same way by sending out a signal that includes a series of letters or numbers. The computer in the vehicle scans this signal to determine whether it is compatible with the code. If it does, the immobilizer is disabled and the vehicle will not be able start.
Depending on the transponder type you might have to push one or more buttons to unlock the doors or start the engine. This is a safety measure to prevent anyone from accidentally starting your vehicle when you're driving or when the key is in your pocket.
It is possible to purchase an alternative key from the dealership for less than you would pay an locksmith for cutting and program a key transponder. AutoZone can duplicate GM transponder key (such as VATS Circle Plus and PK3 keys) and includes an ax and a pair for your car for a fraction the cost.
Key Fobs
The key fobs that control modern-day access and vehicle functions aren't impervious to damage. Like all pieces of technology used by consumers they spend a lot of their lives tucked away in purses and pockets and are therefore susceptible to damage caused by water, a drop of drops or any other mishaps. It's not uncommon to see them stop working at some time. If yours is the case then the best solution could be to visit a car dealership. They have the latest equipment to program replacement fobs, and they can do it quickly.
It is recommended to contact your dealer for an estimation. Some dealers will program replacement keys for no cost or at a reduced price when you're replacing one that was lost. You can also utilize an automotive locksmith if you do not want to shell out a lot of cash. We suggest choosing one that offers a keyfob scanning service, which enables the locksmith to offer a replacement programmed remote for your particular vehicle, based on its unique codes.
Certain key fobs that are replacements come with a "switchblade" key that folds in the plastic of the key fob when it's not in use, and can be pulled out by pressing a 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.
In addition to key fobs, some cars have smart keys that can be integrated with advanced security systems and allow you to start your car using an iPhone or another device. These are typically pricier to replace and purchase and are also more complicated to program.
While the technology behind key fobs is cutting-edge, there's still no substitute for a real metal car key. There are older models that don't come with key fobs and instead come with an ordinary key with a metal key blade that's turned to lock or unlock the doors. If you need to cut a car key, you can usually do it at a variety of hardware stores or auto parts stores.
If you're looking to save some money, take a look at the options at an automotive store such as Batteries Plus. We can cut and program all car key fobs at around 50% less than what a dealership's cost. We're usually open later than a dealer, so you can stop by after work.
Keys made of metal Keys
In the past, most automobiles still had traditional keys made of metal to start the car. These are the basic metal blades that were cut to fit a specific car's lock, and don't contain any kind of computer chip or remote head. You can get a replacement for a traditional car key by visiting an establishment like a locksmith or hardware store who offers key cutting. They will duplicate the key you have and will give you a spare in case of a future loss or break.
A key made of metal can be purchased online, however it's important to check with the seller before purchasing. Some of these online sellers offer cheap spare keys of poor quality that aren't made from genuine original OEM parts. These cheap replacement keys are not only less reliable, but they may damage your car's lock cylinders and may fail prematurely. Instead, search for an established car key service that has both traditional spare metal keys as well as electronic replacements. They can help you select the right option for your vehicle based on its model and type so that you don't overpay and end up with a wrong key.
When automotive key cutting need the creation of a new key for your car, it's best to visit a professional that uses laser cutting technology. This enables them to make keys that are more durable and accurate, making it harder for thieves duplicate. If you're searching for a traditional steel key or a transponder key, you can be sure that your local automotive locksmith has the equipment and know-how to do the job precisely.
If you have an old spare key for metal that is no longer needed then it is recommended to recycle it at the scrap metal center of your town or city. Check with the sanitation department of your city to see if it is accepted as a part of curbside collection. You can also use an online guide, such as Earth911 to find out how to recycle this kind of metal waste. Just remember to remove the keyring and plastic cover first. This will help you recycle. If you are unable to locate a local facility that takes these materials and can be disposed of at many large landfills.