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Getting a New Car Key Cut You will save money compared to the dealership by using an auto locksmith. They can create replacement keys for all car models and types of keys, including fobs that require programming. Laser-cut keys have a thicker shank with less grooves. They also include transponder chips that need to be programmed into your vehicle. This process can be more complex and time-consuming, but it's cheaper than going to a dealer. What kind of keys do I need? The kind of keys you have is essential when it comes to replacing keys to your car that are lost. If your car is older and has a traditional key, you can get the replacement from many hardware stores or locksmiths. These types of keys have simple, precise ridges cut into one side and are simple to duplicate. The majority of modern vehicles have electronic keys, which come with integrated transponder chips that sends a signal to the vehicle when it's put in the ignition. This system is designed to prevent non-authorized users from opening your vehicle or opening the doors. It's more expensive to replace a smart lock if you lose it since they need a computer chip. It's a good idea have a spare key and leave it with someone in your family or a friend in case you lose your original. Depending on the brand and model of your vehicle it might or may not be possible to replace a missing smart key with an aftermarket version. If your car does not have this technology, you will require contacting an expert locksmith or visit the dealership. They will need to have proof of ownership as well as a photo ID in order to purchase the new key for you, and they will need to program it into your car's system. The process can take as long as an hour, and it's important to keep in mind that it will be more expensive than just getting a standard key copied. The cost for laser-cut keys will vary between $50 and $100. While you're waiting for your new key to be made you shouldn't stress out too much about losing it. It's a good idea ensure you have a spare in your pocket or with a trusted 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 car key, consider buying an aftermarket version on the internet. You can usually get these keys for 75 percent less than what the dealer would charge. They'll still need to be cut and programmed to your specific vehicle, so make sure you check around for the best prices in your area. How Much Time Will It Take? If you're the kind of person who is prone to forgetting where their keys are or is prone to losing them, it may be time to invest in an extra car key. You'll be able to avoid the expense of having to pay for a locksmith to come out or having your car tow away to the dealer when you need a new key. It can take anywhere from several minutes to a few hours to make a replacement key. It can cost upwards of $200 to purchase a replacement key in the event that you lose your sole key. You have to pay for having your car tow into a dealership which will purchase and program the replacement key. You will also be charged for labor costs. The cost of purchasing a spare key now is better than having to pay for an upgrade later. A hardware store or locksmith can cut traditional car keys quickly. They have a slightly more robust shank, and fewer grooves than laser-cut key. If you need to replace the fob of your key it will take longer as they will need to be programmed into the vehicle's computer. A reliable auto locksmith or dealer can do this in most cases but it's best to contact them first to find out what their charges are and the time it will take them to complete the work. mobile key cutting of Mister Minit locations have the know-how and equipment to duplicate your car key or fob. You'll be required to bring the original key you'd like duplicated as well as the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car to help us determine what kind of transponder chip the key has. The year the model, model and make will also allow us to determine what kind of key fob you'll need. If you're concerned about losing your original, you can also visit the dealer who makes the car model you use. The dealer will need to program the key fob to the car's computer if you need an replacement. To do this, they'll need proof of ownership like your registration or title documents. You can also get an extra key for your third car and reprogram it yourself. You'll have to read the owner's manual for your car to see how to do this, because it differs from one manufacturer to the next. Are there any limitations on the production of a key without the Original? If you have an older car, you can likely get a standard metal key made by an auto locksmith, or in some cases, even at an hardware store. This is because older vehicles do not use specialized electronic components, such as chips. However, newer vehicles may include transponder keys that need a special laser key-cutting machine known as a sidewinder to make copies of the key. Also, these newer keys may have chip-programmed circuits that prevent your vehicle from starting without the original key being in close proximity to the ignition. If your car is equipped with one of these advanced keys, it's important to be aware that you may need to go to a dealer to have an alternative key made without the original. This can be costly, especially in the event that the dealer wants you to have your vehicle towed in for the key to be programmed. A much more affordable option is to get a locksmith, which can usually cut and program a precise duplicate of your key for less than half the price of an auto dealer. This is something you must do before losing your keys. It will save you money in the future, if you cannot find keys. Can I Get a Key Made at AutoZone? While modern vehicles have sophisticated security systems, they rely on keys to open the car and then start it. If you lose your keys, getting a new one is not as easy as stopping by the self-service kiosk at the mall and cutting it. Modern car keys need to be programmed to the vehicle's security and contain a transponder chip that is unique to every vehicle. Many AutoZone stores have the experience and equipment to provide 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 vehicle on-site. The fundamental process of cutting a car key involves the use of a machine to replicate the contours of a working key. A blank key is put on one side of the duplication machine, while an existing key is on the other side. Both are held in place with a specially-designed tool. The machine then moves the working and blank key back and forth cutting out the desired shape. The new key will match the dimensions of the previous one. The process of making an extra key for your car can be more complex. The year, make, and model of your vehicle will determine what type of key you have, which will then need to be cut by a professional to work in your car. A lot of dealerships have the equipment however, you can find a locksmith to complete the task for a lesser cost. Verify whether the locksmith is a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America. You can usually find keys replacement online for less than going to a dealer to cut them and programmed. You can locate them by searching “(your year and make)” on websites specifically designed for this use. If you own a more complicated key or a key fob, you'll need go to the dealer or a locksmith to have it replaced. It is possible to have the key cut by providing the VIN and evidence of ownership, however you'll need to pay for programming. You can save the cost by getting an extra key made now.