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Getting a New Car Key Cut You can save money compared to a dealership by using an auto locksmith. They can create replacement keys for all kinds of vehicles and models, including fobs that require programming. Laser-cut keys have a thicker shank with less grooves. They also include transponder chips that require programming into your car. This procedure can be complex and time-consuming, but it's still less expensive than going to an auto dealer. What kind of keys do I Need? The type of keys you have is crucial when it comes to replacing lost car keys. If your car uses a traditional key and is older, you can get the replacement at many locksmith or hardware stores. They are simple to duplicate and feature a simple sharp ridge cut into the side. Modern vehicles are equipped with electronic keys that have a built-in transponder chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it's inserted in the ignition. This system is designed to stop unauthorized users from starting your car or opening the doors. When you lose the smart key, it's more costly to replace as they require a specific computer chip to perform. This is the reason it's best to keep a spare car key in your possession and leave another with a family member in case you do lose your original. Based on the make and model of your car It may or might not be possible to replace a missing smart key with a second-hand version. If your car does not have this type of technology, you'll require contacting an locksmith or go to the dealership. You will require a photo ID and proof of ownership to purchase the new car key. Then, they will need to program the key to your vehicle's system. This process can take as long as an hour and it's important to remember that it will be more expensive than simply having a standard key copied. The cost of laser-cut keys will differ between $50 and $100. While you wait for your new key, don't fret too much about it. It's a good idea to keep a spare in your wallet or with a trusted friend It's also a good idea to keep your keychain in check when it's moving around. Consider buying an aftermarket car key online if your goal is to save money. You can often find these keys for around 75 percent less than the price dealers would charge. laser key cutting will still need to be cut and programmable to the specific vehicle you own, however be sure to check around for the best prices in your area. How long will it take? If you're a person who forgets where their keys are or is prone to misplacing keys, it's the time to get a spare car key. A spare key can help you avoid the hassle of having to pay for a locksmith or tow to the dealership when you get locked out and require a replacement key. It could take between several minutes to several hours to make an alternative key. It could cost up to $200 to purchase a replacement key if you lose your sole key. This is because you will need to pay for the vehicle to be taken to the dealership, which will then need to purchase and program a new key. You will also be charged for the labor cost. The cost of purchasing a spare key now is better than having to pay for a replacement later. A hardware store or locksmith can make traditional car keys in a short time. They usually have slightly thicker 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 because they have to be programmed with the computer in your vehicle. A reputable auto locksmith or the dealer can complete this task in the majority of cases but it's best to make a call first to find out the cost and how long it will take for them to complete the job. At all Mister Minit locations we have the tools and know-how to duplicate your current car keys or fobs. You'll be required to bring the original key you'd like duplicated along with the year, make, and MODEL of your car to help us determine what type of transponder chip your key is equipped with. The year the model, model and make will also allow us to determine the type of key fob you require. Another option to consider if you're concerned about losing your original key fob is to visit a dealer who makes the model of car you drive. If you need an replacement for your key fob, this will take a little longer since the dealer will need to program the key fob with your car's computer. They will require proof of ownership such as your registration or title papers for this. You can also purchase an extra third-party car key and then reprogram it yourself. You'll need to consult the owner's manual for your car to learn how to do this, because it differs from manufacturer to manufacturer. Are There Any Limitations on the production of a key Without the Original? If you have an older vehicle, you can likely get a standard key made of metal by an auto locksmith or in some cases, an hardware store. This is because older cars don't have special electronic components, such as chips. However, newer vehicles may include transponder keys that need a specific laser key-cutting machine known as a sidewinder to create copies of the keys. These newer keys can also have a chip programmed to prevent your vehicle from being started 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 have to visit a dealer to have a replacement key created without the original. This can be expensive particularly if you need to transport your car to the dealer in order to program the key. Contacting replacement car key cutting is a cheaper alternative. They can cut and program a replica of your car key for about half the price of a dealership. This is something you must do prior to losing your keys. It will save you money in the future, if you can't locate keys. Can I purchase a key at AutoZone? While modern vehicles have sophisticated security systems, they rely on keys to open the car and then start it. It's not as simple as going to the self-service kiosk at the mall and getting the replacement key. Instead, modern keys for cars must be programmed to work with your vehicle's security system and must have a transponder chip inside that is unique to your vehicle. Many AutoZone stores have the knowledge and equipment to provide these services. If you have a key fob or even a traditional key an associate from the store, they will assist you in programming it to your vehicle on-site. The basic process for cutting a car key involves the use of a machine to replicate the shape of an original key. A key that is already in use is placed on one side of the duplication machine and an uncut key is placed on the other, where a specialized tool holds both in a straight line. The machine moves the blank key back and forward cutting out the desired shape. The result is an entirely new key that is the exact dimensions of the original. The process of creating an additional key for your car could be more complicated. The year and make, as well as the model will determine what kind of key you need. The key will be cut by a professional to fit the car. Many dealerships carry the required equipment however, you can find a locksmith to perform this task for less. Make sure you check if the locksmith is an associate member of the Associated Locksmiths of America. If you own a standard key, you may be able to buy replacements online for less than going to a dealer to have them cut and programmed for you. You can locate them by searching “(your year and make)” on websites specifically designed specifically for this use. If you have a more complex key or a key fob you'll need go to the locksmith or dealer to get it replaced. It is possible to have the key cut by providing the VIN and evidence of ownership, however you will have to pay for programming. You can avoid the cost by getting an additional key made today.