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How Much to Get a Car Key Cut A new car key might cost more than expected. That's because different keys have different characteristics. If your car is equipped with a traditional metal key with no chip or fob that you want to duplicate, you can do so for a relatively low price 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 have will determine the price of the replacement. Standard car keys that don't contain transponder chips are simple to replace, and they can be duplicated in most hardware stores for a minimal cost. However modern keys require special equipment to be programmed to your specific vehicle, and therefore require the services of an expert. Standard car keys are made by positioning the original key on a duplication machine, then using it as a template to create the new key. A blank key is then placed over it and cut, creating a duplicate original key that is able to unlock and start your car. Based on the car you drive you might also have an anti-theft or valet key with a transponder chip that communicates with the vehicle's system to stop theft. Keys with this feature are slightly thicker 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 keys. These are more expensive to duplicate than normal keys, and also require special machines to program them, which are usually only available at dealerships. They have a distinct design in the blade of the key, which makes them harder to duplicate. They are typically used in luxury vehicles. If you require a duplicate key and lost it you can often purchase one from a hardware shop, though the quality might not be as good as the original. However, if your car has a fob that incorporates transponder chips it is necessary to visit an auto locksmith or dealer. Certain auto parts chains such as AutoZone also have car key copying services. They can cut basic keys, and in some cases even replace the key fob in case you need to. They're generally more affordable than locksmiths, but they aren't able to create spares that are compatible with your particular car. Transponder Keys Chip keys or transponder keys are used in most modern automobiles. These keys are bigger than traditional keys made of metal and include tiny chips. The purpose of these chips is to make it very difficult to steal your car. When you insert your transponder keys into the ignition cylinder the chip will transmit a radio frequency signal that contains an identification number. The immobilizer in your vehicle will scan the code to determine if the codes match. If not, it will block your engine from beginning. If web in need of an updated transponder key It is recommended to call an expert locksmith who will be capable of copying your key using a specific machine that reads the data from your car's computer and match it to the appropriate code. This is a process that requires specialized tools, which are normally only available at locksmiths who are professionals and at some dealerships. There are a variety of transponder keys each with its own unique functionality. In general, they all operate the same way, sending out a message which consists of numbers or letters. This signal is then scanned by the computer in the vehicle to see if the sequence matches. If it matches, the immobilizer is disabled and the car will not be able start. Depending on the transponder type, you may need to press one or more buttons to unlock the doors or start the engine. This is a safety feature that prevents people from getting your car started while you're driving or when you have the key in your pocket. Depending on the manufacturer of your vehicle, you might be able to get a replacement key from the dealer at a lower cost than to cut an automotive locksmith and program a transponder lock. AutoZone can duplicate GM transponder keys (such as VATS Circle Plus and PK3 keys) and include an ax and a pair for your car for a fraction of the price. Key Fobs The key fobs used to control vehicle access and functionality are not impervious to destruction. As with any piece of consumer technology they spend a lot of their time in pockets and purses, making them susceptible to damage caused by water, a dropped drop or any other mishaps. It's not unusual for them to cease functioning at some time. If yours does it, the best choice could be to visit a dealership for cars. They typically have the most current equipment for programming replacement fobs and are able to do it quickly. The cost of the new key fob will depend on the model and make of your car and you should contact your dealer for an estimate. Some dealers offer replacement key fobs for free or at a discounted 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 offers scans of the key fob that allows them to provide an alternative remote that is programmed for your specific vehicle by taking the unique codes from the vehicle identification number. Certain replacement key fobs come with key fobs that have a “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. The cost ranges from $200 and $300 to replace, plus a trip to the dealership to program the key. Certain vehicles come with smart keys, which are similar to key fobs but integrate with advanced security features and permit you to start your vehicle 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 advancing however, there's no alternative to a physical car key. Some older models don't have key fobs. Instead, they use a standard key that has a metal blade. This is used to lock and unlock doors. If you need to cut a metal car key, you'll be able to do it at a variety of hardware stores or auto parts stores. Batteries Plus is a great site to find ways to save money. replacement car key cutting can cut and program most car key fobs for around 50% less than a dealership's cost. What's more, we often remain open later than the dealership, and you can pop in after work. Metal Keys For a long time, cars still used traditional keys made of metal to open the car. These are the basic metal blades that are specifically designed to fit specific locks for cars. They do not contain any remote or computer chip. If you have lost a traditional keys, you can usually replace it by visiting a locksmith or hardware store that offers key cutting services for cars. These professionals will duplicate your existing key and give you a spare in case of a future loss or break. You can also purchase keys made of metal online however, it is recommended to inquire with the seller first. Some online sellers sell low-cost, cheap spare keys that aren't made from original OEM parts. These cheap replacement keys are not only less reliable, but they may harm the cylinders of your car's locks and cause premature failure. Find a reliable car key service that offers electronic replacements as well as traditional spare keys made of metal. They will help you choose the best one for your vehicle depending on its type and model so you don't spend money and end up with a wrong key. When you need a new key for your car, it's best to seek out an expert who utilizes laser cutting technology. This allows them to design keys that are more precise and robust, making them difficult for thieves to duplicate. If you're searching for a traditional steel key or a transponder key you can be certain that your local locksmith has the tools and experience to get the job done correctly. If you're done with your old spare metal key, you should recycle it at an existing scrap metal recycling facility in your city or town. Contact the sanitation department of your city to find out if it's accepted as a part of curbside collection. You can also consult an online guide, like Earth911, to find out how to recycle this kind of metal waste. Be Discover More Here to take off the cover and keyring made of plastic first. This will make it easier to recycle the metal. If you're unable to find a local place that will take these materials and can be disposed of in many large landfills.