14 Common Misconceptions Concerning How Much To Get A Car Key Cut

How Much to Get a Car Key Cut

A new car key can cost more than you expect. This is due to the fact that keys have different features.

If your car has a traditional metal key that has no chip or fob you can duplicate it at a reasonable cost at a majority of hardware stores and locksmiths. Some keys, however, require specialized equipment to duplicate.

What Kind of Keys Are There?

There are several different types of keys for cars and the type you've got determines the amount it will cost you to purchase an alternative. Standard car keys that don't contain transponder chips are simple to replace and can be duplicated at a variety of hardware stores for a small fee. Modern key fobs may require an expert to program them for your vehicle.

Keys for cars that are standard are made by putting the original key on a duplication machine and then using it as a template to create the new key. A blank key is then placed over the existing one and cut, creating a duplicate original key that is able to unlock and start your vehicle. Depending on your car, you may also have an anti-theft or valet keys that has a special transponder chip that communicates with the car's security system to stop theft. They are difficult to duplicate due to their slightly larger shanks, fewer grooves and a thinner profile than regular keys.

Another type of car key is a laser-cut, or sidewinder key. They are more expensive to duplicate than normal keys and require special programming machines that are only available at dealerships. These keys have a unique pattern on the blade of the key that makes them more difficult to duplicate. They are often used in luxury automobiles.

If you lose your keys and require a duplicate you can typically find one at the hardware store, but the quality of the key might not be as high as the original. If your vehicle has a transponder-chip fob, you will need to go to a dealer 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 some cases even replace the key fob if you need to. They're generally less expensive than a locksmith, however they can't create spare keys that work with your specific vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Most modern cars come with keys that are called chip or transponder keys. These keys are bigger than metal keys, and they contain an extremely small chip. The goal of these chips is to make it extremely difficult to take your car away. When you insert your transponder into the ignition cylinder the chip will transmit a radio frequency that includes an identification. The car's immobilizer will scan the code to determine if it matches and will not allow your engine to begin when it doesn't.

If you require a new transponder, it is recommended that you speak with a locksmith. They will be able copy your key with an instrument that can analyze the information in your vehicle's system and match the code. This process requires special tools that are typically only available from locksmiths who are professionals or from dealerships.

There are a variety of transponder keys in existence each with its own unique functionality. However they all function similar in that they send out a signal containing an array of numbers or letters. This signal is then scrutinized by the car's computer to see if the code is compatible with. If it matches the immobilizer is disabled and the vehicle will not be able to start.

Depending on the type of transponder key you have, it could require you to push one or more buttons to open the doors or start the engine. This is a security measure to prevent anyone from accidentally starting your vehicle when you're driving or when the key is in your pocket.

Depending on the maker of your car, you might be able to purchase an alternative key from the dealer at a lower cost than to have an automotive locksmith cut and program a transponder lock. AutoZone is one example. It is able to duplicate GM transponder keys (such as the VATS Circle Plus key or VATS Circle Plus or PK3 key) and includes cutting a blade and pairing with your vehicle at less than the cost of going through the dealership.

Key Fobs

The key fobs used to control modern-day access and vehicle functions aren't a guarantee of durability. Like any piece of consumer technology they spend a lot of their lives tucked away in purses and pockets and are therefore susceptible to damage caused by drops of water, drops of rain or other misfortunes. It's not unusual to see them stop working at some time. If this happens to you, you may want to visit a dealership. They usually have the most current equipment to program replacement fobs and are able to do it quickly.

It is recommended to contact your dealer for an estimation. Some dealers offer replacement keys for no cost or at a reduced cost when replacing one that was lost. You can also make use of an automotive locksmith if you don't need to spend much money. We suggest choosing one that provides scans of the key fob which enables them to provide an alternative remote that is programmed for your specific vehicle by reading its unique codes from the vehicle identification number.

Certain key fobs that are replacements come with the "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 types of key fobs are priced between $200 and $300, which includes a trip at the dealership to program the keys.

Some cars come with smart keys, which are similar to key fobs but come with advanced security features and permit you to start your vehicle with smartphones. They are generally more expensive to replace and purchase and also more difficult to program.

The technology behind key fobs might be cutting-edge, but a metal car key is still the best option. There are older models that don't have key fobs and instead feature a standard key with a metal key blade that's turned to lock or open the doors. You can cut a key made of metal at most hardware or auto parts stores.

Batteries Plus is a great place to search for ways to save money. We can cut and program most car key fobs for around 50% less than dealership's cost. We're often open later than a dealership, so you can pop in after work.

Keys made of metal Keys

In the past, most cars still utilized traditional keys made of metal to open the car. They are the basic metal blades that were cut to fit a specific car's lock, and do not contain any remote head or computer chip. If you have lost a traditional keys, you are able to replace it by visiting an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that offers key cutting services for cars. These professionals will duplicate your current key and provide you with a spare for future losses or broken.

You can also buy a metal key online however it's best to talk to the seller first. Some online sellers sell low-cost, cheap spare keys that are not made from genuine OEM parts. These cheap replacement keys aren't just less reliable, but they could harm the cylinders of your car's locks and cause premature failure. Choose a reliable car key service that provides electronic replacements and traditional spare metal keys. They'll help you determine the most appropriate option based on your car's type and model, to ensure that you don't buy the wrong key for your car and end up spending your money.

It's best to go to an expert who utilizes laser cutting technology when you need a new car key. This allows them to create keys that are more accurate and durable, nearby making them more difficult for thieves to duplicate. The locksmith in your area can provide you with traditional transponder or metal key.

Once you've finished with your old spare key, you can recycle it at an area that recycles scrap metal in your city or town. Make sure to contact the sanitation department of your city to determine if it's accepted as part of curbside collections. You can also utilize an online guide, like Earth911 to learn the best way to recycle this kind of metal waste. Be sure to take off the keyring and plastic cover first. This makes it easier where to get car key cut recycle the metal. If you're not able to locate a nearby location that takes these materials and can be disposed of at a variety of large landfills.