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Getting a New Car Key Cut You can save money compared to the dealership by using an auto locksmith. They can make replacement keys for all vehicle models and key types including fobs that require programming. Laser cut keys have longer shanks and less carved-out grooves. They also have transponder chips that need to be programmed into your car. This process is more complicated and takes longer but it's still less expensive than going to the dealership. What kind of keys do I Have to have? The kind of keys you have is important when it comes to replacing keys for your car that have been lost. If your car is older and uses a traditional key, you can find a replacement at many hardware or locksmith stores. They are simple to duplicate and feature an easy, precise ridge cut into the side. Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys. They have a transponder chip built in that sends a message to the vehicle when they are put into the ignition. This system is designed so that anyone who is not authorized to use it cannot start your car or open the doors. It's more costly to replace a smart key when you lose it because they need a computer chip. It's a good idea keep a spare key in your possession and leave it with someone in your family or a friend in case you lose the original. Depending on your car's model and make You might or may not be in a position to replace the smart key that's missing by a replacement from an aftermarket. If your car does not have this technology, you will require contacting a locksmith or visit the dealership. car key cutting price will require an ID photo and proof of ownership to purchase an auto key. They will then have to program the key to your vehicle's system. The process can take up to an hour. It's much more expensive than the standard version of the key. The cost of laser-cut keys can vary between $50 and $100. While you wait for your new key, don't fret too much about it. You should always have an extra key in your purse, or with a trusted companion. Also, keep an eye on the keychain whenever it moves. Consider buying an aftermarket car key online if you wish to save money. You can often find these keys for around 75 percent less than the price the dealer would charge you. You'll still need to cut them and program them to your vehicle. Find out the most affordable price in your area. How long will it take? If you're the type of person who has trouble remembering where their keys are or is susceptible to losing them, it may be the time to get an extra car key. A spare can save you the headache of paying for a locksmith, or even tow towards the dealership if you are locked out and require an alternative key. Depending on the type of key it could take from just a few minutes up to a few hours for someone to make a new one. It can cost upwards of $200 to replace a key in the event that you lose your sole key. This is because you have to pay for the vehicle to be towed to the dealership, which will then need to purchase and program a replacement. You will also be charged for labor costs. It's better to spend the money on a spare car key today in a time that suits you, rather instead of having to pay for a replacement when you need it most. Traditional keys for cars can be made quickly by a locksmith or even at the hardware store. They usually have slightly thicker shanks and have less grooves carved out than laser-cut keys. If you require a key fob replacement it's likely to take a bit longer because they have to be programmed using the computer in your vehicle. A reliable auto locksmith or dealer can do this in most cases, but it's better to make a call first to find out what their charges are and how long it will take them to complete the job. At the majority of Mister Minit locations we have the tools and know-how to duplicate your car keys or fobs. You'll be required to bring the original key you wish to duplicate as well as the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to help us determine what kind of transponder chip your key is equipped with. The year, model and make will also help us determine the type of key fob you need. If you are worried about losing your original, you can also visit the dealer who manufactures the car you drive. If you need an replacement for your key fob, it may take longer as the dealer will have to program it with your car's computer. They will need to have evidence of ownership, such as your title or registration documents for this. You could also obtain a third car keys to use as a spare, and reprogramme it yourself. You'll need to read the owner's manual to learn how to do this as it will vary between manufacturers. Are there any restrictions on Getting a Key Made Without the Original? You can purchase a standard metal car key from an auto locksmith or, in some cases even a hardware store if you have an old automobile. This is because older vehicles do not have specific electronic components such as chips. However, newer vehicles may have transponder keys that require a specific laser key-cutting machine called a sidewinder make copies of the key. Keys that are newer contain programmed chip that prevents your vehicle from being started in the event that the original key isn't close to the ignition. If your car is equipped with one of these keys, it's important to be aware that you might require an authorized dealer to have an alternate key made, without the original. This could be expensive, especially if you have to take your vehicle to the dealer to set up the key. Contacting a locksmith is a cheaper alternative. They can cut and program a duplicate of your car key at a fraction of the cost of the dealership. This is something you must do before losing your keys. It will save you money in the future, if you can't locate keys. Can I Get a Key Created at AutoZone? While modern vehicles have sophisticated security systems, they rely on keys to unlock the car and start it. If you lose your keys replacing it isn't as simple as going to the self-service kiosk in the mall and cutting it. Rather, modern keys for cars have to be programmed to work with the security system of your vehicle and have a transponder chip inside that is unique to your vehicle. Fortunately, many AutoZone locations have the tools and experience to offer these services. If you have a key fob or even a traditional key associate at the store, they can help you program it to your car onsite. The most basic method of cutting a car key is using a machine to copy the contours of an original key. A working key is placed on one side of the duplication machine and a blank key on the other side, while an instrument designed for this purpose holds them in alignment. The machine moves the blank key forward and back cutting out the desired shape. The new key will match the dimensions of the original. When it comes to making a spare car key it can be more complicated. The year, make, and model of your car will determine what kind of key you have. It will then need to be cut by a professional locksmith to work inside your car. Locksmiths are available who can cut the key at a lower cost than dealerships. Make sure to verify if the locksmith is a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America. You can usually find replacement keys online at less than visiting a dealer to have them cut and programmed. You can locate them by searching “(your year and year of manufacture)” on websites specifically designed for this use. You'll have to take your key fob or more complex keys to a locksmith or dealer to get it replaced. You can have a new key made by providing your VIN and proof ownership, however, the programming will cost you. The best method to avoid these costs is to have a spare key made in the near future, so that you can utilize it in case of an emergency.