How Much to Get a Car Key Cut

A new car key could cost more than you anticipated. That's because different keys have different characteristics.

If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned metal key with no chip or fob, you can duplicate it at a very low cost at a majority of hardware stores and locksmiths. Some keys, however, require specialized equipment to duplicate.

What Kind of Key?

There are several different types of car keys, and the type you have determines the amount it will cost you to purchase a replacement. Car keys that do not contain transponder chips are easy to replace, and they can be duplicated at most hardware stores for a low fee. Modern key fobs might require a professional to program them for your car.

Keys for cars that are standard are created by placing the original key on a duplication device and then using it as a template for the new key. The blank key is then placed over the original one and cut to create a duplicate key that can unlock your car and begin it. Depending on the model of your car you may also have an anti-theft or valet key with a transponder chip that communicates with your car's security system to stop theft. These keys are slightly more robust shanks and less carved out grooves than standard keys, and are harder to duplicate.

A laser-cut car key, also called a sidewinder is a different type of key. These are more expensive to copy than regular keys, and also require special machines to program them, which are generally only available through dealerships. These keys have a unique pattern in the blade of the key, which makes them difficult to duplicate. They are commonly used in luxury automobiles.

If you lose your keys and require a duplicate you can typically get one at the hardware store, but the quality of the keys might not be as excellent as the original. However, if your car is equipped with a fob with transponder chips you'll need to go to an auto locksmith or dealer.

Some auto parts stores like AutoZone also have key copying services for cars. They can create basic keys and, in some instances, replace the keys fob. They're generally less expensive than a locksmith, though they can't create spares that will work with your specific vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Chip keys or transponder keys are used in most modern cars. These keys are bigger than metal keys, and they contain an extremely small chip. The goal of these chips is to make it difficult to steal your car. When you insert your transponder into the ignition cylinder the chip will transmit a radio frequency that includes an identification. The immobilizer inside your car will scan the code and determine if they are compatible. If not, it will stop the engine from beginning.

If you're in the market for a new transponder keys you should contact a locksmith who will be capable of copying your key using a specific machine that reads the information from the car's system and match it to the proper code. This process requires special tools that are usually only available through professional locksmiths and some dealerships.

There are many different kinds of transponder keys in existence, each with its own unique functionality. In general, they all operate the same way by sending out a message that contains a sequence of numbers or letters. The computer in the vehicle scans the signal to determine whether it is compatible with the code. If it does the immobilizer is disabled and the car will not start.

Depending on the type of transponder keys, it could require you to push one or more buttons to open the doors or start the engine. This is a security feature that prevents people from getting your car started while you are driving it or if you carry the key in your pocket.

You could be able to get an additional van key cutting from the dealership for less than what you would pay an automotive locksmith to cut and program the key transponder. AutoZone is one example. It is able to duplicate GM transponder keys (such as the VATS Circle Plus or PK3 key) and will include the cutting of a blade and the pairing with your car, all for only a fraction of the cost of the dealership.

Key Fobs

Key fobs that manage the functionality of vehicles and access are not indestructible. Like any piece of consumer technology they spend a lot of their lives jostled in pockets and purses which makes them vulnerable to damage caused by drops of water, drops of rain or any other mishaps. It's not unusual to see them stop working at some point. If yours is affected, you may want to go to a dealership. They have the most up-to-date equipment to program replacement fobs, and they can do it fast.

It's best to ask your dealer for an estimation. Some dealers offer replacement keys for no cost or at a reduced price when you're replacing one that was lost. If you're not prepared to spend a large amount of money, you could consider a locksmith for your car. We recommend choosing one that provides a key-fob scanning service that allows them to provide a replacement remote programmed for your specific vehicle by taking the unique codes from the vehicle identification number.

Certain replacement key fobs have the switchblade key. This key folds into the plastic of the fob when in use and pops out with the push of an button. These types of key fobs can cost between $200 and $300, which includes an appointment at the dealer to program the keys.

Some cars come with smart keys that are like key fobs but incorporate advanced security features and allow you to start your car using the smartphone. They are generally more expensive to replace and buy and are more difficult to program.

Although the technology behind key fobs is cutting-edge, there's still no substitute for a physical metal car key. There are older models that don't have key fobs and instead feature 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 cut it at the majority of hardware stores or auto parts stores.

Batteries Plus is a great site to find ways to save money. We can program and cut the majority of car key fobs at a fraction of the cost of a dealership. We also often remain open later than the dealership and you can easily pop in after work.

Keys made of metal Keys

In the past, most cars still used traditional metal keys to start the car. They are the basic metal blades cut to fit a particular car's lock, and they do not contain any remote head or computer chip. If you lose a traditional key you can usually replace it by visiting a locksmith or hardware store that provides car key cutting services. These professionals will duplicate your current key and also provide you with another Automobile Key Cutting Near Me for any future losses or breakages.

You can also buy keys made of metal on the internet however, it is best to check with the seller first. Some of these online sellers offer cheap, low-quality spare keys that aren't made of genuine authentic OEM parts. These low-quality replacement keys aren't just less trustworthy, but they can harm the cylinders of your car's locks and may fail prematurely. Choose a reputable car key service that provides electronic replacements and traditional spare metal keys. They'll help you choose the best option based on your car's type and model, to ensure that you don't get the incorrect motorcycle key cutting for your vehicle and waste your money.

It is best to consult a professional who uses laser car key cutting near me cutting technology when you require a new car key. This allows them to design keys that are more accurate and durable, making them more difficult for thieves to duplicate. If you're seeking a traditional metal key or a sophisticated transponder key you can be certain that your local automotive locksmith has the tools and experience to do the job right.

When you're finished with your old spare metal key, you should recycle it at an area that recycles scrap metal in your town or city. Contact your city's sanitation department to determine whether they will accept it as part of the curbside collection or an online guide such as Earth911 to find out which recycling facilities can accept this kind of metal waste. Be sure to remove the cover and keyring made of plastic first. This will help you recycle. You can also dispose of these materials at large landfills if unable to find a local facility that accepts them.