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How Much to Get a Car Key Cut Getting a new car key can cost more than you expect. This is due to the fact that keys have different features. If your car is equipped with a traditional metal key with no chip or fob you can duplicate it at a reasonable cost at a majority of hardware stores and 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 cost of a replacement. Standard car keys that don't contain transponder chips are simple to replace, and they can be duplicated at most hardware stores for a small fee. Modern key fobs might require a professional to program them for your car. The original key is positioned on a duplication device, and used as a template to make the standard car key. The blank key is placed over the original one and cut to create a duplicate key that can unlock your car and open it. It is also possible to possess a valet or anti-theft key with a transponder to prevent theft. Keys with this feature are slightly thicker shanks and less carved out grooves than standard keys and are harder to duplicate. Another type of car key is a laser cut key, or sidewinder keys. These are more expensive to duplicate than standard keys, and they also require specialized machines to program them, which are usually only available through dealerships. They have a distinct pattern of cuts on the blade of the key that make them difficult to duplicate. They're frequently used in luxury vehicles. If you lose your keys and need a replacement you can typically find one at an hardware store, though the quality of the key might not be as good as the original. If your car has an embedded transponder chip it is necessary to visit a dealership or locksmith. Certain auto parts chains such as AutoZone also have car key copying services. They can cut standard keys and, in certain cases, even replace the key fob in case you require. They tend to be more affordable than a professional locksmith, however they aren't able to make spares for your specific vehicle. Transponder Keys Most modern cars come with a type of key called a transponder or chip key. They are more substantial than traditional keys made of metal and include a small chip. The purpose of these chips is to make it extremely difficult to steal your car. When you insert your transponder key into the ignition cylinder the chip will send out a radio frequency signal that contains an identification code. The immobilizer in the vehicle will scan the code and determine if they match. If not, it will prevent the engine from starting. If you're in the market for an updated transponder key you should contact a locksmith who will be able to copy your key with a machine that can read the information from your car's system and match it with the appropriate code. This process requires specialized tools, which are typically only available from professional locksmiths or dealerships. There are many different types of transponder key, each with their distinct functions. In general, however, they all work similar in that they send out a signal containing the sequence of letters or numbers. This signal is then scanned by the computer in the vehicle to see if the code matches. If it does the code, the immobilizer will be disabled and the vehicle is unable to start. Depending on the transponder type, you may need to push one or several buttons to open the doors or start the engine. This is a safety feature that stops someone from accidently starting your car when you're driving or if you carry the key in your pocket. You may be able to get a replacement key at the dealership for less money than the cost of an automotive locksmith to cut and program the key transponder. AutoZone is an example. It can duplicate GM transponder keys (such as the VATS Circle Plus key or VATS Circle Plus or PK3 key) and will include a blade cut and pairing with your vehicle, all for only a fraction of the cost of the dealership. Key Fobs The key fobs used to control modern access and vehicle functionality aren't a guarantee of durability. They are frequently jostled around in purses and pockets. This leaves them susceptible to being damaged by water or a smashed ice cube or any other mishaps. It's not unusual to see them stop 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 technology to program replacement fobs and they can do it fast. The cost of the new key fob will depend on the make and model of your car It's recommended to inquire with your dealer for an estimate. Some dealers can program a replacement key fob for free or at reduced price if you are replacing an old one. If you're not willing to spend a significant amount of money, you can also try an automotive locksmith. We suggest choosing one that provides key fob scanning service, which enables the locksmith to provide an alternate remote that is programmed for your vehicle based on its unique codes. Some replacement key fobs have a “switchblade” key that folds in the plastic of the key fob when it's not in use, and can be pulled out when you press a button. Key fobs of this kind can cost between $200 and $300, which includes an appointment at the dealer to program the keys. Visit Homepage come with smart keys, which are like key fobs but integrate with advanced security features that allow you to start your vehicle using the smartphone. These are generally more expensive to buy and replace and also more difficult to program. Although the technology behind key fobs is advanced, there's still no substitute for a real metal car key. Some older models don't have key fobs and instead feature an ordinary key with a metal key blade that's turned to lock or unlock doors. If you need to cut a metal car key, you can usually do it at a variety of hardware stores or auto parts stores. If you're looking for ways to save money, take a look at the options at an automotive store such as Batteries Plus. We can program and cut most car key fobs at a fraction of the cost of a dealership. We're often open later than a dealership, which means you can stop by after work. Metal Keys Up until recently the majority of automobiles utilized traditional keys for starting their car. These are the basic metal blades cut to fit a specific car's lock, and they do not include any computer chip or remote head. You can change the traditional car key by visiting the hardware store or locksmith that offers key cutting services. These professionals will duplicate the key you have and give you a spare in the event of a loss or break. A key made of metal can be purchased online, however it is essential to verify with the seller before purchasing. Some online retailers offer cheap, low-quality spare keys that are not made from genuine OEM parts. These low-quality replacement keys aren't only less reliable, they can cause damage to the locking cylinders of your car. Find a reliable service for car keys who offers both electronic replacements as well as traditional spare metal keys. They'll help you choose the most appropriate option based on your car's type and model, to ensure that you don't get the incorrect key for your vehicle and waste your money. When you need a new key for your vehicle, it is 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. Your local automotive locksmith can provide you with traditional metal or transponder key. Once you've finished with your old spare metal key, it's best to recycle it at an existing scrap metal recycling facility in your town or city. Check with your municipality's sanitation department to determine whether they will accept it as part of the curbside collection, or use an online guide like Earth911 to find out the best places to recycle this kind of metal waste. Remember to take off the plastic cover and keyring first. This will allow you to recycle it. If you're not able to locate a local facility that takes these items, they can also be disposed of at many large landfills.