How Much to Get a Car Key Cut
A new car key may cost more than you expected. This is because different keys come with different features.
If your car has a traditional metal key with no chip or fob, you can duplicate it at a very low cost at a majority of hardware stores and locksmiths. However, some keys require specialized equipment to copy.
What kind of keys are There?
The kind of car key you have will determine the price of replacing it. Standard car keys without transponder chips are easily replaced and are available at most hardware stores. However the most modern key fobs require special equipment to be programmed to your specific vehicle, and therefore require the assistance of a professional.
The original key is put on a duplication device and used as a template to create a standard car key. The blank key is placed over the original key and cut to create a duplicate key that can unlock your car and open it. Depending on your car you might also have an anti-theft or valet key with a transponder chip that communicates with your vehicle's system to stop theft. Keys with this feature are slightly thicker shanks and less carved out grooves than standard keys, and are harder to duplicate.
Another type of car key is a laser cut key or sidewinder key. They're more expensive duplicate than normal keys and require special programming machines that are only available in dealerships. They have a unique pattern of cuts within the key blade that help make them more difficult to duplicate, and they're frequently used in luxury vehicles.
If you require a duplicate key and lost it You can usually get one from a hardware store although the quality might not be the same as the original. If your car is equipped with a transponder chip fob you'll need to go to a dealership or locksmith.
Some auto parts chains like AutoZone also have keys for cars that can be copied. They can create basic keys and, in some cases, replace the key fob. They usually cost less than a professional locksmith but they cannot create spares for your specific vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as chip keys are found in the majority of modern automobiles. They are generally larger than regular keys and include a small electronic chip inside them. These chips are designed to make it hard for someone to steal your vehicle. When you connect your transponder to the ignition cylinder the chip will transmit a radio frequency that includes an identification. The immobilizer in the car will scan the code and determine if they are compatible. If not, it will stop your engine from starting.
If you're in the market for a new transponder key, it's best to contact a locksmith who is capable of copying your key with a machine that reads the information from your car's system and match it to the correct code. This procedure requires special tools that are usually only available through professional locksmiths or some dealerships.
There are a variety of transponder keys that are available each with its own distinct functionality. In general, however they all function in the same way by sending out a signal that includes an array of letters or numbers. This signal is then scanned by the car's computer to see if the code matches. If it matches the code, the immobilizer will be disabled and the car is 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 security feature that will prevent someone from accidentally starting your car while you are driving it or when you have the key in your pocket.
You may be able to get an additional key from the dealership for less than the cost of an locksmith for cutting and program a key transponder. get car key cut can duplicate GM transponder key (such as VATS Circle Plus and PK3 keys) and includes a blade and pairing your car at a fraction the cost.
Key Fobs
The key fobs that regulate modern-day access and vehicle functions aren't impervious to damage. As with any piece of consumer technology they spend the majority of their lives jostled in purses and pockets, making them susceptible to damage from water, a drop of drops or other mishaps. It's not unusual to see them stop working at some moment. If yours does, the best option may be to visit a car dealership. They have the most up-to-date equipment to program replacement fobs and they can do it quickly.
The cost of a new key fob depends on the model and make of your vehicle and you should contact your dealer for an estimate. Some dealers can program replacement keys for free or at a reduced cost if you're replacing a lost one. If you're not prepared to spend a significant amount of money, you can consider a locksmith for your car. We recommend selecting one that offers a keyfob scanning service, which enables the locksmith to provide an alternate remote that is programmed for your specific vehicle based on its unique codes.
Certain key fobs that are replacements come with a "switchblade" key that folds up into the plastic of the key fob when not in use, and can be pulled out by pressing a button. These kinds 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 smartphones or other devices. These are usually more expensive to replace and buy and are more difficult to program.
While the technology behind key fobs is advanced, there's still no alternative to a physical car key. Some older models don't have key fobs. Instead, they use an ordinary key that comes with an iron blade. This is used to lock and unlock the doors. You can cut a metal key at the majority of auto parts or hardware stores.
If you're looking for ways to save money, take a look at the options available at an auto store like Batteries Plus. We can cut and program most car key fobs at around 50% less than dealership's cost. We are often open later than a dealer, so you can pop in after work.
Metal Keys
In the past the majority of cars used traditional metal keys to start their cars. These are the basic metal blades cut to fit a particular car's lock, and do not include any computer chip or remote head. If you lose a traditional key you are able to replace it by visiting an establishment like a hardware or locksmith which offers cutting services for car keys. These professionals will duplicate your key and give you another key for any future losses or breakages.
You can also buy keys made of metal on the internet however, it is best to talk to the seller first. Some of these online sellers offer cheap spare keys of poor quality that aren't crafted from genuine authentic OEM parts. These low-quality replacement keys are not only less reliable, but they could 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'll assist you in determining the most appropriate option based on your car's type and model, ensuring that you don't get the wrong key for your car and waste your money.
When you need the creation of a new key for your vehicle, it is best to seek out an expert who utilizes laser cutting technology. This allows them to make keys that are more durable and accurate which makes it more difficult for thieves to duplicate. Your local automotive locksmith can provide you with traditional metal or transponder key.
If you have an old spare key for metal that you no longer require and you don't want to use it, recycle it at a scrap metal center in your town or city. Contact your city's sanitation department to find out if they accept it as part of their curbside collection or an online guide such as Earth911 to discover which recycling facilities can accept this kind of metal waste. Make sure to remove 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 locate an establishment in your area that can accept them.