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Are You Getting The Most From Your How Much To Get A Car Key Cut?
How Much to Get a Car Key Cut

A new car key might cost more than you expected. This is due to the fact that keys with different features.

You can purchase a replica of a traditional car key with no chip or fob at an affordable cost from many hardware stores and locksmiths. Some keys, however, require special equipment to duplicate.

What Kind of Keys Are There?

There are a variety of types of car keys, and the type you have determines the amount it will cost you to purchase an alternative. Keys for standard cars that do not have transponder chips are easily replaced and can be found at a majority of hardware stores. However, more modern key fobs require special equipment to be programmed for your particular vehicle, and therefore require the assistance of an expert.

Keys for cars that are standard are made by positioning 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 an identical key that will unlock your car and start it. Depending on your car you might also have an anti-theft or valet keys that has a special transponder chip that communicates with your vehicle's system to stop theft. These keys are harder to copy because they have slightly more robust shanks, smaller grooves and a thinner profile than normal keys.

Another kind of car key is a laser cut key, or sidewinder key. These are more expensive to duplicate than regular keys, and also require special machines to program them, which are usually only available through dealerships. They have a distinct pattern of cuts in the blade of the key that make them difficult to duplicate. They're frequently used in luxury vehicles.

If you need a duplicate key and have lost yours You can usually get one from a hardware store however the quality may not be the same as the original. If your car has an embedded transponder chip you'll need to go to a dealership or locksmith.


Some auto parts chains like AutoZone also offer keys for cars that can be copied. They can cut keys of any type and, in certain cases, even replace the key fob if you require. They're typically more affordable than a locksmith, however they're not able to make spare keys that work with your particular car.

Transponder Keys

Chip keys or transponder keys are used in most modern cars. These are usually larger than regular keys and contain a small electronic chip within them. The reason for these chips is to make it difficult to steal your car. When you insert your transponder key into the ignition cylinder, the chip will send out an radio frequency signal that contains an identification code. The immobilizer in the car will scan the code and determine if the codes match. If not, it will prevent your engine from beginning.

If you're in the market for a new transponder key, it's best to contact an expert locksmith who will be capable of copying your key using a special machine that reads the information from the car's system and match it with the appropriate code. This process requires special tools that are usually only available from professional locksmiths or dealerships.

There are a variety of transponder keys available, each with its own unique capabilities. However they all function the same way by sending out a signal that includes a sequence of letters or numbers. The computer in the vehicle scans this signal to determine if it matches the code. If it does, the immobilizer is removed and the vehicle will not be able start.

Depending on the type of transponder key, it may require you to press one or more buttons in order to open the doors or start the engine. This is a precautionary measure to prevent anyone from accidentally starting your vehicle while driving or when the key is in your pocket.

You may be able to get an additional key from the dealership for less money than what 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 price.

Key Fobs

The key fobs used to control vehicle access and functionality aren't indestructible. They spend a lot of time being tossed around in purses and pockets. This makes them vulnerable to damage by water, a dropped ice cube or any other mishaps. It's not uncommon to see them stop working at some time. If it happens to yours, the best option may be to go to a car dealership. They usually have the most current equipment for programming replacement fobs and are able to do so quickly.

It's best to ask your dealer for an estimate. Some dealers can program replacement key fobs for no cost or at a reduced price when you're replacing one that was lost. If you're not willing to spend a significant amount of money, you could also consider an automotive locksmith. We recommend choosing a locksmith that offers a keyfob scanning service, which enables the locksmith to offer an alternate remote that is programmed for your particular vehicle based on its unique codes.

Some replacement key fobs contain what's referred to as a switchblade key, which folds inside the plastic of the fob when it's not in use and pops out at the touch of an button. These types of key fobs are priced between $200 and $300, which includes a trip at the dealership to program the keys.

In addition to key fobs, some vehicles offer smart keys that integrate with advanced security systems and let you start your car using an iPhone or another device. They are generally more expensive to replace and buy as well as more difficult to program.

Key fobs' technology may be advanced but a traditional car key is still the best option. Some older models do not have key fobs. Instead, they use the standard key with an iron blade. This is used to lock and unlock doors. If you need to cut a metal car key, you can usually do so at most hardware stores or auto parts 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 for roughly 50% less than dealership's cost. We're often open later than a dealership, which means you can stop by after work.

Metal Keys

In the past, most automobiles still had traditional keys made of metal to open the car. These are the basic metal blades that were made to fit a specific car's lock, but they do not include any remote head or computer chip. If you lose a traditional key you are able to replace it by visiting a hardware store or locksmith which offers cutting services for car keys. The professionals will duplicate your current key and provide you with a spare for future losses or breakages.

car keys cut made of metal can be purchased online, though it is essential to verify with the seller prior to buying. Some online sellers offer cheap, low-quality spare keys that aren't crafted from genuine authentic OEM parts. These cheap replacement keys are not only less reliable, but they could harm the cylinders of your car's locks and cause premature failure. Choose a reliable service for car keys that provides electronic replacements and traditional spare keys made of metal. They'll help you determine the best choice depending on the type of car and model, ensuring that you don't get the wrong key for your vehicle and waste your money.

It is best to consult an expert who utilizes laser cutting technology if you need a new car key. This allows them to make keys that are more durable and accurate and makes it difficult for thieves duplicate. Your local locksmith for cars can provide you with a traditional metal or transponder key.

If you have an old spare metal key that's no longer required and you don't want to use it, recycle it at the scrap metal center of your town or city. Make contact with your municipal sanitation department to determine whether they accept it as part of their curbside collection program, or consult an online guide such as Earth911 to discover which recycling facilities can accept this type of metal waste. Be sure to take off the plastic cover and keyring first. This will make it easier to recycle the metal. If you're not able to locate a local facility that takes these items and can be disposed of at a variety of large landfills.

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