How To Outsmart Your Boss Getting A New Car Key Cut Getting a New Car Key Cut

You can save money compared to a dealership by using an auto locksmith. They can create keys replacements for all vehicle models and key types including fobs that require programming.

Laser cut keys have thicker shanks and less carved-out grooves. They also come with transponder chips which require programming into your vehicle. This can be time-consuming and complicated, but it's cheaper than visiting an dealer.

What kind of keys do I require?

When it comes to replacing a lost car key the type of key you have is a major factor. If your car is old and you have a traditional type of key, you can obtain an alternative from a variety of locksmiths or hardware stores. These keys are easy to duplicate and feature a simple sharp ridge cut into the side.

The majority of modern vehicles have electronic keys that have a built-in transponder chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it's put into the ignition. This system is designed in a way that unauthorised users are unable to start your car or open doors. If you lose the smart key, it's much more costly to replace since they require a specialized computer chip to function. This is why it's best to keep an extra car key on hand and leave another with a family member in case you ever do lose your original.

Depending on your car's make and model You might or may not be in a position to replace the smart key that's missing with an aftermarket replacement. If your car does not have this technology, you will need to contact a locksmith or visit the dealership. They will need to have proof of ownership and an ID picture to purchase an additional key for you, and then they'll have to program it to your car's system.

The process can take up to an hour. It is much more expensive than a standard copy of keys. The cost for laser-cut keys can differ between $50 and $100.

While you wait for your new key to be made, try not to be too worried about losing it. It's a good idea keep a spare in your wallet or with a friend It's also a good idea to keep your keychain in check as it moves around.


Think about purchasing G28 Car Keys if your goal is to save money. These keys are usually priced at 75% less than what dealers would cost. However, you will need to cut 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 forgets where their keys are or is prone to misplacing keys, it's the right time to purchase a spare car key. You'll be able to save yourself the hassle of having to pay for locksmiths to visit or having your car tow away to the dealer if you require a new key. Depending on the type of key, it could take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours for someone to make a new one.

It can cost upwards of $200 to get a replacement key if you lose the only one. You'll need to pay to have your car towed into a dealership which will purchase and program the replacement key. Also, you'll be responsible for any labor charges associated from the procedure. It's better to spend the money on a spare car key today, on your terms instead of having the expense of replacing it when you need it most.

Traditional car keys can be made quickly by a locksmith or even at the hardware store. They have a slightly more robust shank and have fewer grooves than a laser-cut key. If you're looking to replace a key fob, it will take longer since they will need to be programmed into the vehicle's computer. A reliable auto locksmith or dealer can complete this task in the majority of cases, but it's better to call ahead first to determine what their rates are and how long it will take them to complete the job.

Most Mister Minit locations have the expertise and the equipment to duplicate your current car key or fob. You'll need to bring the key you wish to duplicate as well as the year, make and MODEL of your car to help us determine what type of transponder chip your key has inside. The year, make and model will also let us know the type of key fob you need.

If you are worried about losing your original, you can go to the dealer that makes the car brand you drive. If you need an replacement for your key fob, it will take a bit longer as the dealer will need to program the key fob with your car's computer. They will need to have proof of ownership such as your registration or title papers to complete this. You can also buy a spare third car key and reprogramme it yourself. You'll need to consult the manual of your owner to find out how to do this as it will differ between different manufacturers.

Are there any restrictions on getting a key made without the original?

You can purchase a standard car key made of metal from an auto locksmith or, in certain cases, even a hardware store when you own an older automobile. This is because older cars do not have specific electronic components like chips. Modern cars may have transponder keys that require a laser-cutting device called sidewinder to duplicate the key. The newer keys may also include a programmed chip that stops the vehicle from starting if the original key isn't in close proximity to ignition.

If your car has one of these keys, it is important to know that you will probably need to go to a dealer to have an alternative key made without the original. This can be expensive especially if the dealer requires that your vehicle be towed in for the key to be programmed.

Calling a locksmith is a much more affordable alternative. They can cut and program a replica of your car keys for about half the price of a dealership. It is a good idea to do before losing your keys. It will save you money in the future, if you can't locate them.

Can I get a Key made at AutoZone?

Modern cars come with the latest security features, but still rely on the keys to open and start them. If you lose your keys, getting a new one isn't as simple as a trip to the self-service kiosk in the mall and cutting it. Modern car keys have to be programmed to work with your vehicle's security system and must include a transponder chip that is unique to the vehicle you own.

Many AutoZone stores have the experience and equipment to provide these services. If you have your key fob (or even just a traditional key) with you, an associate will cut it and then help you program it to your vehicle on-site.

The basic process for cutting a car key is the use of a machine to replicate the contours of a working original key. A blank key is positioned on one side of a duplication machine, and an existing key is on the other. Both are held in alignment with a specially-designed tool. The machine then moves the working key and the blank key in a circular motion and cuts out the desired shape. The new key will have the original dimensions.

When it comes to making a spare car key, however, things get more complicated. The year and make of your car will determine what type of key you have, which will need to be cut by a professional locksmith to use in your vehicle. Locksmiths are available who can cut the key at a lower cost than dealerships. Find out whether the locksmith is part of the Associated Locksmiths of America.

If you own a standard key, you can often purchase replacements on the internet for less than going to a dealer and having them cut and programmed for you. You can find them on sites specifically designed for this purpose, and also by searching for "(your year model, make, and year)."

You will need to take your key fob, or more complex key to a locksmith or dealer to get it replaced. You can have a key made by providing your VIN and proof of ownership, but the programming will cost you. The best method to avoid these costs is to get a spare key made now, so you can use it in the event in an emergency.