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Getting a New Car Key Cut You will save money compared to a dealership by using an auto locksmith. They can create replacement keys for all vehicle models and key types including fobs that require programming. Laser-cut keys have thicker shanks with fewer grooves. They also come with transponder chips which require programming into your vehicle. This procedure can be complex and time-consuming, however it's cheaper than visiting an auto dealer. What kind of keys do I need? The type of keys you own is crucial when it comes to replacing keys for your car that have been lost. If your car is older and you have a traditional type of key, you can get a replacement at many hardware or locksmith stores. These keys are easy to duplicate and feature a simple, precise ridge cut into the side. cheap key cutting of modern vehicles use electronic keys. These keys come with an embedded transponder chip which sends a signal to the vehicle once they are placed in the ignition. This system is designed to stop non-authorized users from opening your car or opening doors. It's more expensive to replace a smart lock if you lose it because they need a computer chip. It's recommended to have a spare key and leave it with someone in your family or a friend in case you lose the original. Based on the make and model of your vehicle it might or may not be possible to replace a lost smart key with a second-hand version. If your car does not have this type of technology, you'll have to call a locksmith or visit the dealership. You'll need a photo ID and proof of ownership to purchase the new car key. They will then have to program the key to the system of your vehicle. The process can take up to an hour. It's also more expensive than getting an ordinary copy of a key. A key fob laser-cut can cost between $50 and $100. While you're waiting for your new key to be made and delivered, don't be too worried about losing it. It's a good idea make sure you have a spare in your wallet or with a trusted friend and it's also wise to keep your keychain in check as it travels around. If you're trying to save money on a replacement for your car key, think about purchasing an aftermarket model on the internet. You can often find these keys for around 75 % less than what the dealer would charge you. You will still have to cut them and program them to your vehicle. Contact around to find the most affordable price in your area. How long will it take? If you are the type who is susceptible to losing or forgetting your keys it's the right time to buy a spare. You can avoid the hassle of paying for a locksmith to come out or having your car tow away to the dealer when you require an additional key. Depending on the type of key it can take anywhere from just a few minutes to few hours to make a new one. It could cost up to $200 to purchase a replacement key if you lose the sole key. This is because you will need to pay for the vehicle to be towed to the dealership, which will need to order and program a new key. You'll also have to pay for any labor charges that are associated with the process. It's much better to spend the money on an extra car key now at your own time, and on your terms than to have pay for a replacement when you're in the need of it. Traditional keys for cars can be made quickly by a locksmith, or at the hardware store. They have a slightly more robust shank and have fewer grooves than a keys made with lasers. If you're looking to replace the key fob it will take longer since they must be programmed into the vehicle's computer. A trustworthy auto locksmith or dealer can do this in most cases but it's best to contact them first to find out what their rates are and the time it will take them to complete the job. At most Mister Minit locations we have the tools and know-how to duplicate your current car keys or fobs. You'll have to bring the key you wish to duplicate as well as the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car to help us determine what kind of transponder chip your key is equipped with. The year model, make and year will also allow us to determine what kind of key fob you need. If you're worried about losing your original key fob, you can also visit the dealer that makes the car model you use. The dealer will need to program the key fob using your car's computers in case you need an alternative. To do this, they'll require proof of ownership such as your registration or title documents. You can also find a third car key as a spare and then reprogramme it yourself. You'll need to consult your owner's manual to find out how this is done since it will differ between different manufacturers. Are there any limitations on Getting a Key Made without the Original? If you have an older car you could get a standard metal key made by an auto locksmith, or in some cases even at a hardware store. This is because older vehicles do not use specialized electronic components, such as chips. However, newer cars may include transponder keys that need a special laser key-cutting machine called a sidewinder to create copies of the keys. The newer keys may also contain programmed chip that prevents your car from starting if the original key isn't in close proximity to ignition. If your car has one of these advanced keys, it's important to know that you will probably require a dealer to have an alternative key made without the original. This can be expensive especially in the event that the dealer wants that your vehicle be taken to the dealer for the key to be programmed. Calling a locksmith is a more affordable alternative. They can cut and program a copy of your car key for about half the price of the dealership. It is crucial to take this step before you lose your car keys, since it will save you a lot of money in the long run when you're unable to locate them. Can I purchase a key at AutoZone? Although modern cars are equipped with advanced security systems, they rely on keys to open the car and allow it to start. If you lose your keys and need to replace it, it is not as easy as a trip to the self-service kiosk at the mall and cutting it. Rather, modern keys for cars have to be programmed to work with the vehicle's security system and must contain a transponder chip that is unique to the vehicle you own. Fortunately, a number of AutoZone locations have the equipment and expertise to provide these services. If you have your key fob (or perhaps a standard key) with you, a staff member can cut it and assist you to program it to your vehicle on the spot. A machine is used to copy contours of an original car key. A blank key is put on one side of the duplication machine, and an existing key is on the other. Both are held in alignment with a specially-designed tool. The machine moves the blank key forward and back, cutting out the desired shape. The result is an original key that matches exactly the dimensions of the original. When it comes to creating a spare car key, however, things get more complicated. The year the make, model, and year of your vehicle will determine the type of key you have. It will then need to be cut by a professional locksmith in order to use in your vehicle. Many dealerships have the necessary equipment however, you can find a locksmith who will perform this task for less. Make sure you check if the locksmith is an associate member of the Associated Locksmiths of America. You can often get replacement keys online at a lower price than going to a dealership to cut them and programmed. You can locate them by searching “(your year and year of manufacture)” on websites specifically designed for this for this purpose. If you own a more complicated key or key fob, you will likely have to visit the dealer or a locksmith to have it repaired. You can have a new key made by providing your VIN and proof of ownership, however, the process will cost you. You can save the cost by getting an extra key made now.