How Much to Get a Car Key Cut
The purchase of a new car key can cost more than you think. This is because keys with different features.
You can get a copy of a traditional car key without a chip or fob at a low cost from most hardware stores and locksmiths. Some keys, however, require specialized equipment to duplicate.
What kind of Key?
The type of car key you are using will determine the cost for a replacement. Standard car keys without transponder chips can be easily replaced and are sold at most hardware stores. Modern key fobs may require a professional to program them for your car.
Keys for cars are created by placing the original key on a duplication machine and then using it as a template to create the new key. The blank key is placed over the original key and cut to create duplicate keys that unlock your car and begin it. You might also have an anti-theft or valet key that has a transponder chip to prevent theft. These keys are more difficult to duplicate due to their slightly more robust shanks, smaller grooves and a thinner profile than regular keys.
A laser-cut car key, also known as a sidewinder key, is another type of key. These are more expensive to duplicate than standard keys, and they also require specialized machines to program them, which are typically only available through dealerships. They have a distinct design in the blade of the key that makes them difficult to duplicate. They are commonly used in luxury vehicles.
If you need a duplicate key but have lost it, you can often get one from a hardware shop although the quality might not be as good as the original. If your car is equipped with a transponder-chip fob, you will need to visit a dealership or locksmith.
Some auto parts stores, such as AutoZone, also offer key duplication services for cars. They can create basic keys and in certain instances, replace the keys fob. They tend to be more affordable than a professional locksmith but they cannot create spares for your particular vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as chip keys are used in most modern cars. They are generally larger than regular metal keys and have a tiny electronic chip inside them. These chips are designed to make it difficult for someone to steal your vehicle. When you insert your transponder key into the ignition cylinder the chip will transmit an radio frequency signal that contains an identification number. The immobilizer in your car will examine the code to determine if it matches and won't allow your engine to start when it doesn't.
If you're in need of a new transponder key It is recommended to call a locksmith who is capable of copying your key using a specific machine that will read the data from your car's computer and match it to the correct code. This process requires special tools that are usually only available through professional locksmiths and dealerships.
There are several different types of transponder keys available each with its own unique capabilities. However, they all work similar in that they send out a signal that contains a sequence of numbers or letters. The signal is then scanned by the computer in the vehicle to determine if the code is compatible with. If it does then the immobilizer will be disabled and the car will not start.
Depending on the type of transponder key you have, it might require you to press one or more buttons to open the doors or start the engine. This is a safety measure to prevent anyone from accidentally starting your vehicle while you are driving or when the key is in your pocket.
Depending on the maker of your vehicle, you might be able to obtain a replacement key from a dealership for less than what it costs to cut an automotive locksmith 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 a blade cut and pairing with your car at less than the cost of the dealership.
Key Fobs
The key fobs that control the vehicle's access and function are not indestructible. Like any piece of technology used by consumers they spend a lot of their time in pockets and purses which makes them vulnerable to damage from water, a drop of drops or any other mishaps. It's not uncommon for them to stop functioning at some point. If it happens to yours then the best solution could be to visit a dealership for cars. They typically have the most up-to-date technology for programming replacement fobs and are able to do it quickly.
It is recommended to contact your dealer for an estimation. Some dealers will program a replacement key fob for free or at a discounted prices if you're replacing one that was lost. You can also make use of an automotive locksmith if do not want to shell out much money. We recommend choosing one that has the key-fob scanning option, which allows them to provide an alternative remote that is programmed to your specific vehicle reading its unique codes from the Vehicle Identification Number.
Some replacement key fobs come with the switchblade key. It folds into the plastic of the fob when in use, and then pops out by pressing an button. The cost ranges from $200 and $300 to replace, plus a visit to the dealer for key programming.
Certain cars have smart keys, which are similar to key fobs but integrate with advanced security features and permit you to start your car with the smartphone. They are generally more expensive to replace and purchase and are more difficult to program.
While the technology behind key fobs is advanced however, there's no alternative to a physical car key. Certain older models don't come with key fobs and instead have a standard key with the key blade made of metal that is turned to lock or open the doors. If automotive key cutting near me looking to cut a metal car key, you can usually do so at most hardware stores or auto parts stores.
If you're looking for ways to save money, take a look at the options at an automobile store like Batteries Plus. We can cut and program most car key fobs for around 50% less than dealership's price. What's more, we often stay open later than a dealership, and you can visit after work.
Metal Keys
In the past, most cars still used traditional keys made of metal to start the car. They are simple metal blades that have been cut for the specific lock of the car. They don't contain any computer chip or remote. You can get a replacement for a traditional car key by visiting a hardware store or locksmith that offers key cutting services. These professionals will duplicate your key and provide you with a replacement in case of a future loss or break.
A metal key can also be purchased online, however it's important to check with the seller before purchasing. Some online sellers offer cheap, low-quality spare keys that are not made from original OEM parts. These replacement keys that are cheap are not only less reliable, but they could cause damage to your car's lock cylinders and cause premature failure. Choose a reliable service for car keys that offers electronic replacements and traditional spare metal keys. They can help you select the best option for your car based on its type and model so that you don't waste money and get the wrong key.
When you need the creation of a new key for your vehicle, it is recommended to go to a professional that uses laser cutting technology. This allows them to create keys that are more durable and accurate and makes it difficult to replicate by thieves. Your local locksmith for cars can supply you with traditional transponder or metal key.
If you have an old spare key for metal that's no longer required then it is recommended to recycle it at a scrap metal center in your town or city. Make sure to contact the sanitation department of the municipality you live in to determine if it's accepted as part of curbside collections. You can also use an online guide, like Earth911 to find out the best way to recycle this kind of metal waste. Make sure to remove the keyring and plastic cover first. This will help you recycle. You can also dispose of these items in large landfills if not able to find an area that will accept them.