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Getting a New Car Key Cut You can save money when compared to a dealership by using an auto locksmith. They can make keys replacements for all vehicle models and key types including fobs that require programming. Laser cut keys have longer shanks with less carved-out grooves. They also include transponder chips that require programming into your vehicle. This process is more complicated and takes more time, but can still be cheaper than going to the dealership. What kind of keys do I Really Need? When it comes to replacing the car key that was lost the type of keys you own is a significant factor. If your car is older and you have a traditional type of key, you can obtain a replacement at many locksmiths or hardware stores. These keys are simple to duplicate and come with a simple and precise ridge cut into the side. Most modern vehicles use electronic keys, which come with an embedded transponder chip which transmits a signal the vehicle when it's inserted into the ignition. This system is designed in a way that anyone who is not authorized to use it cannot start your vehicle or open doors. It's more costly to replace a smart key when you lose it since they require a computer chip. This is why it's best to keep a spare car key in the vehicle and leave another with a friend or family member in the event that you ever do lose your original. Depending on the car's model and make You may or may not be able to replace the smart key missing using an aftermarket replacement. If your car doesn't have the technology, you'll have to go to a dealer or contact locksmith. They will require proof of ownership and an ID photo to buy an additional key for you, and they will need to program it into your car's security system. The process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, and it's important to note that it will be more expensive than simply having a standard key copied. The cost for a laser-cut key fob will differ between $50 and $100. While you wait for your new key, don't stress too much about it. It's a good idea to make sure you have an extra in your pocket or with a friend, and it's also smart to keep an eye on your keychain as it moves around. If you're seeking a way to save money on a replacement for your car key, consider buying an aftermarket key on the internet. These keys are usually priced at about 75% less than the price dealers charge. However, you will need to cut and program them into your vehicle. Call around to find the best price in your area. How long will it take? If you're the type who is prone to losing keys or forgetting them, it might be time to purchase a spare. You'll be able to save yourself the expense of having to pay for locksmiths to visit or having your car towed to the dealer if you need new keys. Depending on the type of key, it can take anywhere from just a few minutes to couple of hours to create a new key. It can cost upwards of $200 to get a replacement key if you lose your sole key. This is because you have to pay for the vehicle to be taken to the dealership, which will then need to purchase and program a new key. You'll also have to pay for any labor charges associated with the process. Spending money on a spare key now is much better than paying for an upgrade later. A hardware store or locksmith can cut traditional car keys in a short time. They typically have slightly larger shanks and have less grooves carved out than laser-cut keys. However, if you need a key fob replacement it's likely to take longer since they need to be programmed using the car's computer. A reliable auto locksmith or dealer can do this in most cases but it's best to make a call to find out what their charges are and the time it will take for them to complete the work. At all Mister Minit locations we have the equipment and expertise to duplicate your car keys or fobs. Bring the key you want to duplicate as well as the YEAR MAKE MODEL of your vehicle to help us determine the type of transponder chip is contained within. The year, model and make will also help us determine the type of key fob you require. If you are worried about losing your original key fob, you can also visit the dealer who makes the car you drive. If you require a key fob replacement it will take a bit longer since the dealer will have to program it using your car's computer. To do this, they'll require proof of ownership, such as your registration or title documents. key cutting price can also buy a spare third car key and reprogramme it yourself. You'll have to check the manual of your owner to learn the procedure for doing this since it will differ between different manufacturers. Are there any restrictions to getting a key made without the original? If you own an older car, you can likely get a standard key made of metal by an auto locksmith or in some cases even at the hardware store. This is because older cars do not have specialized electronic components such as chips. However, modern cars could include transponder keys that need an exclusive laser key-cutting device called a sidewinder to create copies of the key. Also, these newer keys may contain programmed chips that keep your vehicle from starting without the original key being in close proximity to the ignition. If your car has one of these keys, you should be aware that you might require a dealer to have an alternate key made, without the original. This can be costly, especially in the event that the dealer wants that your vehicle be towed in for the key to be programmed. A locksmith's call is a much more affordable alternative. They can cut and program a replica of your car key at a fraction of the cost of a dealership. It is a good idea to do before you lose your keys. It will save you money in the future, if you are unable to locate them. Can I Get a Key made at AutoZone? Although modern cars are equipped with advanced security systems, they rely on keys to unlock the car and then start it. If you lose your keys and need to replace it, it is not as easy as stopping by the self-service kiosk at the mall and having it cut. Modern car keys have to be programmed to work with your security system of your vehicle and have a transponder chip inside that is unique to the vehicle you own. Many AutoZone stores have the experience and equipment to offer these services. If you have your key fob (or even just a traditional key) with you, an associate can cut it and help program it to your vehicle on-site. A machine is used to copy contours from a working original car key. A working key is placed on one side of the duplication device and an uncut key is placed on the other, where an instrument designed for this purpose holds them in a straight line. The machine moves the blank key forward and back and cuts out the desired shape. The result is an entirely new key that is exactly to the dimensions of the original. The process of making a spare key for your car could be more complicated. Your vehicle's year and make will determine the kind of key you need. This will be cut by a professional in order to fit the car. Many dealerships carry the required equipment, but you can also locate a locksmith who can complete the task for a lesser cost. Find out whether the locksmith is a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America. It is common to find replacement keys online for less than going to a dealership to cut them and programmed. You can find them on sites that are intended specifically for this use, as well as by searching for “(your year, make, and model).” If you have a more complex key or key fob, you'll need go to the dealer or a locksmith to have it replaced. You can have a key made by providing your VIN and proof of ownership however, the programming will cost you. The best method to avoid these expenses is to have an extra key created in the near future, so that you can use it in case of an emergency.