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How Much to Get a Car Key Cut A new car key could cost more than anticipated. This is because keys with different features. If your car uses a traditional 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? There are many different kinds of car keys and the type you have will determine how much it will cost you to purchase an alternative. Keys for standard cars that don't contain transponder chips are simple to replace, and can be duplicated in most hardware stores for a minimal fee. However, more modern key fobs require special equipment to be programmed to your specific vehicle, and therefore require the assistance of a professional. Keys for cars are made by positioning the original key on a duplication device and then using it as a template for the new key. The blank key is then placed over the original one and cut to create an identical key that will unlock your car and begin it. Based on the car you drive you may also have an anti-theft key or valet key which has a transponder chip that communicates with the vehicle's system to stop theft. They are difficult to duplicate due to their slightly thicker shanks, less grooves and a thinner profile than regular keys. A laser-cut car key, also called a sidewinder key, is another type of key. car key cutting price are more expensive to duplicate than regular keys, and also require special machines to program them, which are generally only available at dealerships. These keys have a distinctive design in the blade of the key, which makes them difficult to duplicate. They are commonly used in high-end automobiles. If you need a duplicate key and have lost yours, you can often get one from a hardware store although the quality might not be the same as the original. If your car has a transponder chip fob you'll need to visit a dealership or locksmith. Certain auto parts chains such as AutoZone also have key copying services for cars. They can make basic keys and in certain instances, replace the keys fob. They're generally less expensive than a locksmith, though they can't create spares that are compatible with your particular car. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, also known as chip keys are found in the majority of modern automobiles. These keys are bigger than keys made of metal, and they contain tiny chips. The goal of these chips is to make it very difficult to steal your car. When you insert your transponder key into the ignition cylinder, the chip will transmit a radio frequency signal that includes an identification code. The immobilizer inside your car will scan the code and determine if the codes match. If not, it will prevent the engine from beginning. If you're in need of a new transponder, it's best that you contact an locksmith. They can copy your key with an instrument that can read information from the system of your vehicle and match the code. This is a process that requires special tools that are usually only available through professional locksmiths and some dealerships. There are numerous kinds of transponder keys each with its unique functions. They all function the same way by sending out a message which consists of letters or numbers. This signal is then scrutinized by the car's computer to see if the sequence matches up. If it does the immobilizer is disabled and the car is unable to start. Depending on the type of transponder you might have to push one or more buttons to unlock the doors or start the engine. This is a security measure to prevent anyone from accidentally starting your car while driving or when the key is in your pocket. You may be able to obtain an additional key from the dealership for less money than you would pay an locksmith for cutting and program the key transponder. AutoZone can duplicate GM transponder keys (such as VATS Circle Plus and PK3 keys) and includes a blade and pairing your car at a fraction the price. Key Fobs The key fobs used to control modern vehicle and access functions aren't impervious to damage. They are frequently being tossed around in pockets and purses. They are therefore susceptible to damage caused by water or a smashed ice cube or any other mishaps. As a result, it's not unusual for them to cease working at some time. If it happens to yours then the best solution could be to visit a dealership for cars. They have the latest equipment to program replacement fobs, and they can do it quickly. The cost of the new key fob will depend on the make and model of your vehicle and you should inquire with your dealer for an estimate. Some dealers will program replacement key fobs for no cost or at a reduced price when you're replacing one that was lost. You can also use an auto locksmith if you don't want to spend a lot of cash. We recommend selecting one that provides the key-fob scanning option, which allows the locksmith to provide a replacement remote programmed to your specific vehicle reading its unique codes from the vehicle identification number. Some replacement key fobs contain what's known as a switchblade key. It folds inside the plastic of the fob when in use, and then pops out by pressing the button. The cost ranges from $200 and $300 to replace, plus a visit to the dealer to program the key. In addition to key fobs, some cars provide smart keys that work with advanced security systems and allow you to 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 modern but a traditional car key is still the best option. There are older models that don't have key fobs and instead feature the standard key that has a metal key blade that's turned to lock or unlock the doors. If you're required to cut a car key, you can do so at most hardware stores or auto parts stores. If you're looking to save money, consider the options available at an auto retailer like Batteries Plus. We can cut and program the majority of car key fobs for around 50% less than a dealership charges. What's more, we often stay open later than the dealership and you can easily visit after work. Metal Keys Prior to recently the majority of cars were equipped with traditional keys for starting their car. They are the basic metal blades that were cut to fit a specific car's lock, and do not include any remote head or computer chip. You can get a replacement for the traditional car key by visiting the hardware store or locksmith that provides key cutting services. The professionals will duplicate the key you have and provide you with a replacement in the event of a loss or break. You can also buy a metal key online however, it is recommended to inquire with the seller first. Some of these online vendors sell low-cost, cheap spare keys that are not made from genuine OEM parts. These low-quality replacement keys aren't just less reliable, but they could cause damage to the locking cylinders of your car. Instead, choose a reliable car key service that has both traditional spare metal keys as well as electronic replacements. They'll assist you in determining the best option according to your car's make and model, to ensure that you don't buy the incorrect key for your vehicle and waste your money. When it comes to making a new key to your car, it's best to seek out an expert who utilizes laser cutting technology. This allows them to design keys that are more accurate and durable, making them more difficult for thieves to duplicate. If you're seeking a traditional metal key or an advanced transponder key, you can be sure that the locksmith in your area has the tools and experience to do the job precisely. Once you've finished with your old spare metal key, you can recycle it at an existing scrap metal recycling facility in your city or town. Contact your city's sanitation department to see whether they will accept it as part of their curbside collection program, or consult an online resource like Earth911 to find out which recycling facilities can accept this type of metal waste. Be sure to remove the cover and keyring made of plastic first. This will allow you to recycle it. You can also dispose of these materials at large landfills if you are not able to find an establishment in your area that can accept them.