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How Much to Get a Car Key Cut A new car key may cost more than anticipated. The reason is that different keys have distinct features. If your car is equipped with a traditional metal key with no chip or fob you can duplicate it 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 that you are using will determine the cost of replacing it. Car keys that are standard and do not have transponder chips can be easily replaced and are available at most hardware stores. However, more modern key fobs require special equipment to be programmed for your particular vehicle, so they may require the assistance of a professional. Keys for cars that are standard are created by placing the original key on a duplication device and then using it as a template to create the new key. A blank key is placed over it and cut, creating a duplicate of the original key that will unlock and start your vehicle. It is also possible to have a valet or anti-theft key that has a transponder chip to stop theft. These keys are harder to duplicate due to their slightly larger shanks, fewer grooves, and a slimmer profile than standard keys. A laser-cut car key, also called a sidewinder is a different kind of key. They are more expensive to duplicate than standard keys and require specialized programming machines that are only available through dealerships. They have a unique pattern of cuts in the blade of the key that make them more difficult to duplicate. They are often used in luxury cars. If you need a duplicate key but have lost it, you can often get one from a local hardware store although the quality might not be the same as the original. If, however, your vehicle has a fob that incorporates transponder chips it is necessary to visit a locksmith or dealership. Some auto parts stores, like AutoZone, also offer key duplication services for cars. They can cut standard keys and, in some instances, even replace the fob of your key if you need to. They're generally less expensive than a locksmith, though they're not able to make spare keys that work with your particular car. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, also known as chip keys are found in the majority of modern vehicles. They are typically larger than regular metal keys and contain a small electronic chip inside them. The purpose of these chips is to make it very difficult to take your car away. When you insert your transponder into the ignition cylinder, the chip will transmit a radio signal which contains an identification. The car's immobilizer will look up the code to determine if it matches and won't allow your engine to start when it doesn't. If you're in the market for an updated transponder key, it's best to contact an expert locksmith who will be able to copy your key with a machine that can read the information from the car's system and match it with the correct code. This is a process that requires specialized tools, which are typically only available at professional locksmiths and dealerships. There are a variety of transponder keys in existence each with its own distinct functionality. They all function the same way, sending out a message which consists of letters or numbers. The computer of the vehicle scans this signal to determine if it matches the code. If it does then the immobilizer will be disabled and the car will not start. Depending on the transponder type, you may need to push one or several buttons to unlock the doors or start the engine. This is a safety feature that stops someone from getting your car started while you are driving it or if you carry the key in your pocket. Depending on the manufacturer of your car It is possible to purchase an additional key from the dealership for less than what it costs to cut a locksmith for your car and program a transponder lock. AutoZone can duplicate GM transponder keys (such as VATS Circle Plus and PK3 keys) and includes the blade and pair your car at a fraction the price. Key Fobs The key fobs that control modern vehicle and access functions aren't impervious to damage. Like all pieces of technology used by consumers they spend the majority of their lives jostled in purses and pockets, making them susceptible to damage from water, a dropped drop or other mishaps. It's not unusual to see them stop working at some moment. If this happens to you then you might want to visit a dealership. They typically have the latest equipment for programming replacement fobs and are able to do so quickly. It is recommended to contact your dealer for an estimate. Some dealers offer replacement key fobs for free or at a reduced cost if you're replacing one that was lost. You can also use an automotive locksmith if do not want to shell out much money. We recommend choosing one that offers the key-fob scanning option, which allows them to provide a replacement remote programmed to your specific vehicle scanning the unique codes of your vehicle from the vehicle identification number. Certain replacement key fobs have the switchblade key, which folds inside the plastic of the fob when not in use and pops out with the push of an button. These types of key fobs are priced between $200 and $300, plus the cost of a visit to the dealer to program the keys. In addition to key fobs, some vehicles offer smart keys that integrate with security systems that are advanced and let you start your car with smartphones or other devices. keys cut are typically more expensive to replace and purchase, as well as being more difficult to program. The technology behind key fobs may be advanced however a car key is still the best option. There are older models that don't have key fobs and instead feature the standard key that has a metal key blade that's turned to lock or unlock the doors. You can cut a key made of metal at the majority of auto parts or hardware stores. Batteries Plus is a great place to look for ways to save money. We can cut and program the majority of car key fobs at around 50% less than a dealership's price. Additionally, we usually stay open later than a dealership and you can easily come in after work. Keys made of metal Keys Up until recently, the majority of cars were equipped with traditional keys to start their car. These are the basic metal blades that are specifically designed to fit the specific lock of the car. They do not include any computer chip or remote. If you have lost a traditional keys, you are able to replace it by visiting an establishment like a hardware or locksmith which offers car key cutting services. They will duplicate the key you have and give you a spare in case of a future loss or break. You can also buy keys made of metal on the internet however it's best to talk to the seller first. Some of these online sellers offer cheap, low-quality spare keys that aren't made from genuine, original OEM parts. These low-quality replacement keys aren't only less reliable, but they could damage your car's lock cylinders and cause premature failure. Find a reputable car key service that provides electronic replacements as well as traditional spare keys made of metal. They can help you select the best option for your car according to the type and model of your vehicle to ensure that you don't overpay and get the wrong key. If you're looking to purchase a new key for your car, it's best to seek out an expert who utilizes laser cutting technology. This enables them to make keys that are more durable and accurate, making it harder for thieves to duplicate. No matter if you're looking for a traditional metal key or a sophisticated transponder key it is certain that your local locksmith has the equipment and expertise to get the job done correctly. If you're done with your old spare metal key, you can recycle it at an area that recycles scrap metal in your city or town. Contact the sanitation department of your municipality to determine if it's accepted as part of curbside collection. You can also consult an online guide, like Earth911 to learn the best way to recycle this kind of metal waste. Make sure to remove the keyring and plastic cover first. This makes it easier to recycle the metal. You can also dispose of these materials at large landfills if not able to locate an area that will accept these items.