How key car cutting to Get a Car Key Cut
The purchase of a new car key could cost more than you think. This is because different keys come with different characteristics.
If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned metal key with no chip or fob, you can duplicate it at a very low cost at the majority of hardware stores or locksmiths. Certain keys require special equipment to duplicate.
What Kind of Keys Are There?
The type of car key you have will determine the price of a replacement. Keys for standard cars that don't contain transponder chips are easy to replace, and they can be duplicated at most hardware stores for a low fee. However the most modern key fobs require special equipment to be programmed for your specific vehicle, and so may require the services of an expert.
The original key is positioned on a duplication device and used as a template to make the standard car key. The blank key is positioned over the original key and cut to create an identical key that will unlock your car and open 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 car's security system to stop theft. These keys are harder to duplicate because they have slightly thicker shanks, less grooves and a thinner profile than standard keys.
A laser-cut car key, also known as a sidewinder key, is another type of key. They are more expensive to duplicate than standard keys, and they also require special machines to program them, which are generally only available through dealerships. They have a distinct pattern on the blade of the key that makes them more difficult to duplicate. They are commonly used in high-end vehicles.
If you require a duplicate key but have lost it You can usually get one from a hardware store however the quality may not be as good as the original. However, if your car is equipped with a fob with transponder chips you'll need to go to an auto locksmith or dealer.
Some auto parts stores, like AutoZone, also offer key duplication for cars. They can cut standard keys, and in some cases even replace the key fob if 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
Modern cars are equipped with a type of key called chip or transponder keys. These keys are bigger than keys made of metal and contain a small chip. The reason for these chips is to make it extremely difficult to steal your car. When you insert your transponder into the ignition cylinder, it will transmit a radio frequency that includes an identification. The immobilizer in your car will look up the code to determine if it is compatible and won't allow your engine to start if it does not.
If you're in the market for a new transponder keys you should contact a locksmith who will be capable of copying your key with a machine that reads the information from your car's system and match it to the appropriate code. This is a process that requires specialized tools, which are normally only available at professional locksmiths and some dealerships.
There are many different kinds of transponder keys in existence, each with its own unique function. Generally, however they all function in similarly, sending out a signal that contains an array of letters or numbers. This signal is then scanned by the computer in the vehicle to see if the code is compatible with. If it does the immobilizer is removed and the vehicle is unable to start.
Depending on the type of transponder key, it could require you to push one or more buttons to unlock the doors or start the engine. This is a safety feature that prevents people from accidentally starting your car while you are driving it or if you carry the key in your pocket.
You may be able to purchase an additional key from the dealership for less money than you would pay an automotive locksmith to cut and program a key transponder. AutoZone is an example. It can duplicate GM transponder keys (such as the VATS Circle Plus or PK3 key) VATS Circle Plus or PK3 key) and will include the cutting of a blade and the pairing with your car and all at less than the cost of going through the dealership.
Key Fobs
The key fobs that manage the functionality of vehicles and access aren't indestructible. They are frequently moving around in purses and pockets. This leaves them susceptible to damage by water, a dropped ice cube or other mishaps. This is why it's not unusual for them to cease functioning at some time. If this happens to yours, you may want to go to a dealership. They have the latest technology 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 car It's recommended to inquire with your dealer for an estimate. Some dealers will program a new key fob for free or at discounted prices if you're replacing a lost one. If you're not ready to spend a significant amount of money, you can also consider an automotive locksmith. We suggest choosing one that offers keyfob scanning service, which enables the locksmith to supply an alternative remote programmed for your specific vehicle, based on its unique codes.
Some key fobs that are replacements come with a "switchblade" key that folds up into the plastic of the key fob when not in use, and can be pulled out when you press the button. The cost ranges from $200 and $300 to replace, plus a visit to the dealer to program the key.
Certain cars have smart keys, which are similar to key fobs, but integrate with advanced security features and permit you to start your vehicle with a smartphone. These are typically more expensive to replace and buy as well as more difficult to program.
Although the technology behind key fobs is cutting-edge but there's no substitute for a real metal car key. There are older models that don't come with key fobs and instead come with a standard key with an iron key blade that can be turned to lock or unlock the doors. You can cut a key made of metal at the majority of auto parts or hardware stores.
Batteries Plus is a great place to search for ways to save money. We can cut and program the majority of car key fobs at around 50% less than a dealership's cost. We're often open later than a dealer, so you can visit us after work.
Metal Keys
Until recently, most cars still used traditional keys made of metal to open the car. They are the basic metal blades that have been made to fit a specific car's lock, and they do not contain any remote head or computer chip. You can get a replacement for a traditional car key by visiting the hardware store or locksmith that offers key cutting services. These professionals will duplicate your current key and give you a spare for future losses or breakages.
You can also buy keys made of metal online however it's best to check with the seller first. Some online retailers sell cheap, low quality spare keys that are not made from genuine OEM parts. These replacement keys that are cheap are not only less reliable, but they could damage your car's lock cylinders and may fail prematurely. Instead, search for a reliable car key service that provides both traditional spare metal keys and electronic replacements. They will help you choose the best one for your vehicle according to the type and model of your vehicle to ensure that you don't waste money and purchase the wrong key.
It is best to consult an expert who utilizes laser cutting technology when you need a new car key. This enables them to make keys that are more durable and precise and makes it difficult for thieves duplicate. Your local locksmith for cars can supply you with traditional transponder or metal key.
If you have an old spare metal key that you no longer require and you don't want to use it, recycle it at the scrap metal center of your town or city. Contact the sanitation department of your city to find out if it's accepted as part of curbside collections. You can also consult an online guide, like Earth911, to find out how to recycle this type metal waste. Be sure to take off the plastic cover and keyring first. This will make it easier to recycle the metal. You can also dispose of these items in large landfills if you are unable to find an establishment in your area that can accept them.