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How Much to Get a Car Key Cut A new car key may cost more than you expected. This is due to the fact that keys have different features. If your car is equipped with a traditional metal key that has no chip or fob, you can duplicate it at a very low cost at a majority of hardware stores and locksmiths. Some keys, however, require special equipment to duplicate. What Kind of Key? The type of car key that you are using will determine the cost of a replacement. Standard car keys without transponder chips are easily replaced and are available at a majority of hardware stores. However the most modern key fobs require special equipment to be programmed for your specific vehicle, and so may require the assistance of a professional. Keys for cars are made by putting the original key on a duplication machine, then using it as a template to create the new key. The blank key is positioned over the original and cut to create an identical key that will unlock your car and start it. Depending on the model of your car, you may also have an anti-theft or valet keys with a transponder chip that communicates with the car's security system to stop theft. These keys are more difficult to duplicate due to their slightly thicker shanks, less grooves, and a slimmer profile than regular keys. A laser-cut car key also called a sidewinder, is another type of key. Full Content are more expensive to copy than normal keys, and also require specialized machines to program them, which are typically only available at dealerships. These keys have a unique pattern on the blade of the key that makes them harder to duplicate. They are commonly used in luxury vehicles. If you lose your keys and require a replacement it is possible to purchase one from an hardware store, though the quality of the keys might not be as high as the original. However, if your car uses a fob with a transponder chip it is necessary to visit an auto locksmith or dealer. Some auto parts stores, such as AutoZone, also offer car key duplication services. They can cut keys of any type and, in some instances, even replace the fob of your key if you need to. They're typically more affordable than locksmiths, but they're not able to make spare keys that work with your specific car. Transponder Keys Transponder keys or chip keys are found in the majority of modern vehicles. These keys are bigger than metal keys and include a small chip. The chips are designed to make it impossible for someone to steal your vehicle. When you insert your transponder keys into the ignition cylinder the chip will emit a radio frequency signal that contains an identification code. The car's immobilizer will then look up the code to determine if it matches and won't allow your engine to start in the event that it doesn't. If you're in need of an updated transponder key It is recommended to call a locksmith who will be able to copy your key using a specific machine that can read the data from your car's computer and match it up with the appropriate code. This process requires special tools that are usually only available through locksmiths who are professionals or from dealerships. There are several different types of transponder keys in existence, each with its own unique functionality. However they all function similarly, sending out a signal that includes a sequence of numbers or letters. The signal is then scanned by the computer in the vehicle to see if the sequence is compatible with. If it does, the immobilizer will be removed and the vehicle will be unable to start. Depending on the type of transponder depending on the type of transponder, you may have to press one or more buttons to open the doors or start the engine. This is a security feature that will prevent someone from accidently starting your car when you're driving it or if you carry the key in your pocket. It is possible to obtain an additional key from the dealership for less money than you would pay an automotive locksmith to cut and program the 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 of the cost. Key Fobs The key fobs that control modern access and vehicle functionality aren't impervious to damage. They spend a lot of time moving around in purses and pockets. This makes them vulnerable to damage caused by water or dropping ice cubes or other misfortunes. This is why it's not unusual for them to cease functioning at some time. If this happens to you it's best to visit a dealer. They typically have the most up-to-date equipment to program replacement fobs and are able to do it quickly. The cost of the new key fob is contingent on the make and model of your car It's recommended to get in touch with your dealer to receive an estimate. Some dealers can program replacement key fobs for free or at a discounted cost when replacing a lost one. You can also make use of an automotive locksmith if you don't need to spend an excessive amount of money. We recommend choosing one that offers the key-fob scanning option, which allows them to supply a replacement remote programmed to your specific vehicle reading its unique codes from the vehicle identification number. Certain key fobs that are replacements come with key fobs that have a “switchblade” key that folds into the plastic of the key fob when it's not in use, and then pops out when you press the button. The cost ranges from $200 and $300 to replace, and an appointment at the dealer to program the key. In addition to key fobs, a few cars offer smart keys that integrate with advanced security systems and let you start your car using smartphones or other devices. These are usually more expensive to replace and purchase and are more difficult to program. Key fobs' technology may be advanced but a traditional car key is still the best option. Certain older models don't come with key fobs and instead feature the standard key that has the key blade made of metal that is turned to lock or open the doors. If you're looking to cut a car key, you can usually cut it at the majority of hardware stores or auto parts stores. If you're looking to save money, take a look at the options available at an auto store like Batteries Plus. We can program and cut the majority of keys for cars at only a fraction of the price of the dealership. We're often open later than a dealership, which means you can stop by after work. Keys made of metal Keys In the past the majority of automobiles used traditional metal keys to start their car. These are basic metal blades, which were designed for a specific car's lock. They don't contain any remote or computer chip. If you lose a traditional key, you can usually replace it by visiting an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that offers car key cutting services. These professionals will duplicate your key and provide you with a replacement in the event of a loss or break. You can also buy keys made of metal online however, it is recommended to inquire with the seller first. Some of these online vendors sell cheap, low quality spare keys that are not made from original OEM parts. These replacement keys that are cheap aren't just less reliable, but they may cause damage to your car's lock cylinders and may fail prematurely. Choose a reliable car key service that provides electronic replacements as well as traditional spare metal keys. They will help you choose the best one for your vehicle according to its model and type so you don't spend money and purchase the wrong key. It's best to go to an expert who utilizes laser cutting technology if you need a new car key. This allows them to make keys that are more precise and robust, making them difficult for thieves to duplicate. Your local locksmith for cars can provide you with traditional metal or transponder key. If you have an old spare metal key that is no longer needed, it is best to recycle it at an area that has a scrap metal center within your city or town. Contact the sanitation department of the municipality you live in to determine if it's accepted as part of curbside collections. You can also use an online guide, such as Earth911, to find out how to recycle this kind of metal waste. Make sure you take off the plastic cover and keyring first. This will make it easier to recycle. You can also dispose of these items at large landfills if not able to find a local facility that accepts these items.