Most keys do not need an appointment to be cut. We do recommend that you stop in store or call ahead of time to make sure we have the proper key blank in stock.

How long it takes to get a car key replacement depends on the type of car you have. Basic car keys can usually be cut in just a few minutes, while a car key fob replacement could take up to an hour. This is because modern car keys like fobs have unique transponder chips that may require programming.

Newer vehicles often use car key fob technology, while older, standalone automotive keys are usually made with steel, brass or a mixture of nickel and brass. The car key fob replacement process might involve programming the new car key fob using a specific combination that will allow the transmitter to respond to your vehicle. The car key programming process varies depending on the year, make and model of your car.

Standard keys are cut with a key duplicator machine. The original key is positioned on one side of the machine and lined up with a specialized cutting tool to serve as a template for the new key. A blank key is positioned on the opposite side of the machine where a key guide keeps both keys in alignment. The duplication process sees both keys move simultaneously across the machine, resulting in a duplicate key that perfectly matches the original.

No matter which type of car key your vehicle uses, it’s always good to have a spare. With a variety of automotive keys available, having a better understanding of the basic differences between the most common types can be helpful.

Car Key Fobs

On many modern cars, car key fobs are integral parts of a key set. These car keys are equipped with an internal transmitter or remote and serve as the main devices used in keyless entry systems.

Traditional Keys

Basic car keys are usually found on older models and don’t require specialized encoding. They can be cut from a variety of different key blanks and are usually inexpensive to make.

Laser-Cut Keys

These car keys have slightly thicker shanks than basic keys and less carved out grooves. Laser-cut keys come with built-in transponder chips that must be programmed for the specific vehicle.