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How Much to Get a Car Key Cut A new car key could cost more than expected. This is because different keys come with different features. You can obtain a duplicate of a classic metal car key with no chip or fob at an affordable cost from many locksmiths and hardware stores. Certain keys require special equipment to duplicate. What Kind of Keys Are There? There are a variety of types of car keys, and the type you've got will determine how much it will cost to get an alternative. Car keys that do not contain transponder chips are easy to replace, and they can be duplicated at most hardware stores for a minimal fee. Modern key fobs may require a professional to program them to your vehicle. Keys for cars that are standard 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 placed over the original and cut to create an identical key that will unlock your car and open it. Depending on your car, you may also have an anti-theft key or valet key that has a special transponder chip that communicates with your car's system to prevent theft. These keys are harder to copy because they have slightly thicker shanks, less grooves and a thinner profile than regular keys. Another kind of car key is a laser cut key, or sidewinder key. They are more expensive to copy than standard keys, and they also require specialized machines to program them, which are typically only available at dealerships. They have a distinct pattern on the blade of the key, which makes them harder to duplicate. They are often used in high-end automobiles. If you need a duplicate key and lost it You can usually get one from a hardware store although the quality might not be as good as the original. If your car is equipped with an embedded transponder chip, you will need to visit a dealership or locksmith. Some auto parts stores, like AutoZone offers car key duplication services. They can create basic keys and in certain instances, replace the key fob. They are usually more affordable than a professional locksmith, however, they are unable to create spare keys for your specific vehicle. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, also known as chip keys are used in most modern automobiles. They are more substantial than metal keys, and they contain a small chip. These chips are designed to make it hard for someone to steal your vehicle. When you connect your transponder to the ignition cylinder, it will send a radio frequency that contains an identification. The immobilizer in your car will look up the code to determine if it is compatible and will not allow your engine to begin in the event that it doesn't. If you're in the market for a new transponder key you should contact a locksmith who is able to copy your key with a machine that can read the data from your car's computer and match it up with the proper code. This procedure requires special tools, which are typically only available through professional locksmiths or some dealerships. There are a variety of transponder key that each have their unique functions. Generally, however they all function similar in that they send out a signal containing a sequence of numbers or letters. The computer of the vehicle scans the signal to determine if it matches the code. If it does, the immobilizer will be disabled and the vehicle is unable to start. Depending on the transponder type depending on the type of transponder, you may have to push one or several buttons to open the doors or start the engine. This is a security measure that prevents anyone from accidentally starting your vehicle while driving or when the key is in your pocket. You could be able to get an alternative key from the dealership for less money than what you would pay an automotive locksmith to cut and program a 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 at a fraction the cost. Key Fobs The key fobs that manage the functionality of vehicles and access aren't indestructible. Like all pieces of technology used by consumers they spend the majority of their lives jostled in pockets and purses, making them susceptible to damage from water, a dropped drop or other misfortunes. In the end, it's not unusual for them to cease working at some time. If this happens to you then you might want to visit a dealership. They typically have the latest technology for programming replacement fobs and can do so quickly. The cost of the new key fob is contingent on the model and make of your vehicle, so it's best to contact your dealer for an estimate. Some dealers can program a replacement key fob for free or at reduced price if you are 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 choosing one that provides a key-fob scanning service that allows the locksmith to provide an alternative remote specifically for your vehicle by reading its unique codes from the vehicle identification number. Certain replacement key fobs have key fobs that have a “switchblade” key that folds up into the plastic of the key fob when it's not in use, and then pops out when you press the button. These types of key fobs are priced between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of a visit to the dealer to program the keys. Certain vehicles come with smart keys that are similar to key fobs, but come with advanced security features that allow you to start your car using smartphones. They are generally more expensive to replace and purchase and are more difficult to program. The technology behind key fobs may be modern, but a metal car key is still the best choice. Certain older models don't have key fobs and instead have the standard key that has the key blade made of metal that is turned to lock or unlock the doors. You can cut a key made of metal at most auto parts or hardware stores. Batteries Plus is a great site to find ways to save money. We can program and cut most car key fobs for a fraction of the cost of a dealership. We're often open later than a dealer, so you can visit us after work. Keys made of metal Keys Up until recently the majority of cars utilized traditional keys for starting their car. They are the basic metal blades that were made to fit a specific car's lock, but they do not include any remote head or computer chip. If you lose a traditional key you can usually replace it by visiting an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that provides car key cutting services. These professionals will duplicate the key you have and give you a spare in case of a future loss or break. You can also buy keys made of metal online however it's best to talk to the seller first. Some of these online vendors sell cheap, low quality spare keys that aren't made from original OEM parts. These cheap replacement keys are not only less reliable, but they could damage your car's lock cylinders and may fail prematurely. Instead, choose a reliable car key service that provides both traditional spare metal keys as well as electronic replacements. They'll help you determine the best choice depending on the type of car and model, so you don't purchase the wrong key for your car and end up spending your money. If you're looking to purchase making a new key to your vehicle, it is best to visit a professional that uses laser cutting technology. This allows them to create keys that are more accurate and robust, making them difficult for thieves to duplicate. No matter if you're looking for a traditional metal key or an advanced transponder key you can be certain that your local locksmith has the tools and experience to do the job correctly. If you have an old spare metal key that you no longer require, it is best to recycle it in an area that has a scrap metal center within your city or town. Contact your city's sanitation department to find out if they accept it as part of the curbside collection, or use an online guide like Earth911 to discover the best places to recycle this type of metal waste. Just remember to remove G28 Car Keys and keyring first. This will make it easier to recycle. You can also dispose of these items at large landfills if you are unable to find an area that will accept these items.