Treasure Coast Locksmith
LICENSED • INSURED • 35+ YEARS
A hardware store key machine copies the blade pattern - the physical cuts that turn the lock cylinder. For pre-2000 vehicles, that is all you need. For modern vehicles, the blade is only half the equation.
Modern car keys contain a transponder chip. When you insert the key (or bring a proximity fob near the car), the immobilizer system sends an RF challenge to the chip. The chip responds with a unique encrypted code. If the code does not match what the car's computer expects, the engine will not start. A hardware store copy has the right blade but no chip - or an unprogrammed chip that the car rejects.
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is linked to your key's blade pattern in the manufacturer's database. When you have lost all keys and have no original to copy from, we use the VIN to look up the correct cut depths for every position on the key blade.
This process requires proof of ownership (registration, title, or insurance card with matching ID). Once verified, we cut the key to factory specifications using the VIN data, then program the transponder to your vehicle's immobilizer.
Blade-only copy. Physical duplicate of the metal key. Works for door locks and ignition on pre-2000 vehicles. $75-$100.
Transponder key copy. Blade cut plus chip programmed. Required for all vehicles 2000+. $120-$200.
Smart fob copy. Proximity fob programmed as an additional key to your vehicle. $200-$350.
VIN-based cut. No original key needed. Cut from manufacturer database using your VIN. Additional $25-$50 for the VIN lookup.
Metal blade duplicated on-site. For pre-2000 vehicles and door-only copies. $75-$100.
Blade cut + chip programmed. Your car's immobilizer will recognize the new key. $120-$200.
No original key? We cut from VIN records with proof of ownership. Available for all makes.
Add a proximity fob to your vehicle's system. Push-to-start compatible. $200-$350.