How Much to Get a Car Key Cut
The purchase of a new car key may cost more than you think. This is due to the fact that keys with different features.
If your car has an old-fashioned metal key with no chip or fob that you want to duplicate, you can do so at a very low cost at a majority of hardware stores and locksmiths. Certain keys, however, require special equipment to duplicate.
What Kind of Key?
The type of car key that you have will determine the cost for replacing it. Standard car keys without transponder chips are easily replaced and are sold in most hardware stores. However modern keys require special equipment to be programmed for your particular vehicle, so they may require the services of an expert.
The original key is put on a duplication machine and used as a template for a standard car key. A blank key is placed over it and cut creating a duplicate of the original key that will unlock and start your car. You may also possess a valet or anti-theft key with a transponder chip to deter theft. These keys are slightly more robust shanks and less carved out grooves than standard keys, and are more difficult to copy.
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 through dealerships. They have a distinct pattern of cuts in the blade of the key, which help make them more difficult to duplicate. They're often used in luxury cars.
If you lose your keys and need a replacement it is possible to get one at an hardware store, though the quality of the key might not be as good as the original. If your car has an embedded transponder chip you'll need to go to a dealership or locksmith.
Some auto parts stores, such as AutoZone also provide key duplication services for cars. They can cut basic keys, and in some cases even replace the key fob if you require. They usually cost less than a professional locksmith but they cannot create spares for your particular vehicle.
Transponder Keys
The majority of modern vehicles have a type of key called a transponder or chip key. These keys are bigger than keys made of metal and contain an extremely small chip. key cut places near me are designed to make it impossible for someone to steal your vehicle. When you insert your transponder key into the ignition cylinder the chip will send out the radio frequency signal which contains an identification code. The car's immobilizer will look up the code to determine if it is compatible and won't allow your engine to start if it does not.
If you require an upgrade to your transponder, it's best that you contact a locksmith. They will be able duplicate your key by using a special machine which will take information from your vehicle's system and match the code. This process requires specialized tools that are usually only available through professional locksmiths or dealerships.
There are several different types of transponder keys available each with its own distinct functionality. They all operate the same way, sending out a message that contains a sequence of letters or numbers. The signal is then scanned by the car's computer to determine if the code is compatible with. If it does, the immobilizer will be disabled and the vehicle will not start.
Depending on the type of transponder key you have, it could require you to press one or more buttons to open the doors or turn on the engine. This is a security feature that prevents anyone from accidently starting your car when you're driving or when you have the key in your pocket.
Depending on the manufacturer of your car You may be able to purchase an additional key from the dealer for less than it costs to cut an automotive locksmith and program a transponder key. AutoZone can duplicate GM transponder key (such as VATS Circle Plus and PK3 keys) and also include a blade and pairing your car at a fraction the price.
Key Fobs
The key fobs that control modern-day access and vehicle functions aren't impervious to damage. Like any piece of technology used by consumers they spend a lot of their lives tucked away in purses and pockets and are therefore susceptible to damage from water, a dropped drop or other mishaps. In the end, it's not common for them to stop functioning at some point. If this happens to yours it's best to visit a dealership. They have the latest equipment to program replacement fobs, and they can 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 an old one. You can also make use of an automotive locksmith if you don't need to spend an excessive amount of money. We suggest choosing one that provides the key-fob scanning option that allows them to supply an alternative remote that is programmed specifically for your vehicle by reading its unique codes from the vehicle identification number.
Some replacement key fobs have a "switchblade" key that folds up into the plastic of the key fob when not in use, and pops out when you press a button. These kinds of key fobs can cost between $200 and $300, plus the cost of a visit to the dealer to program the keys.
Some cars come with smart keys that are similar to key fobs but incorporate advanced security features that allow you to start your car using the smartphone. These are typically pricier to purchase and replace and are also more complicated to program.
While the technology behind key fobs is cutting-edge however, there's no substitute for a real metal car key. Some older models don't have key fobs and instead come with the standard key that has a metal key blade that's turned to lock or unlock doors. If you're looking to cut a car key, you'll be able to do so at most hardware stores or auto parts stores.
Batteries Plus is a great site to find ways to save money. We can program and cut all car key fobs at only a fraction of the price of the dealership. What's more, we often stay open later than the dealership, and you can pop in after work.
Metal Keys
In the past, most cars still used traditional keys made of metal to open the car. These are the basic metal blades that have been cut for specific locks for cars. They do not contain any remote or computer chip. You can get a replacement for the key of your car by visiting a hardware store or locksmith who offers key cutting. These professionals will duplicate the key you have and will give you a spare in the event of a loss or break.
You can also buy keys made of metal online however it's best to talk to the seller first. Some online retailers offer cheap, low-quality spare keys that are not made from genuine OEM parts. These replacement keys that are cheap are not only less reliable, but they may damage your car's lock cylinders and fail prematurely. Look for a reliable car key service that provides electronic replacements and traditional spare keys made of metal. They will help you choose the best one for your car according to its model and type so that you don't overpay and get the wrong key.
It is best to consult a professional who uses laser cutting technology when you require a new car key. This allows them to create keys that are more precise and durable, making them harder for thieves to duplicate. Whether you're looking for a traditional metal key or a sophisticated transponder key it is certain that your local automotive locksmith has the equipment and know-how to complete the task precisely.
If you have an old spare key for metal 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. Contact the sanitation department of the municipality you live in to see if it is accepted as a part of curbside collection. You can also consult an online guide, like Earth911, to find out the best way to recycle this kind of metal waste. Just remember to remove the keyring and plastic cover first. This will make it easier to recycle. You can also dispose of these items at large landfills if unable to find an establishment in your area that can accept them.