https://www.openlearning.com/u/kaasturan-slsill/blog/15SurprisingStatsAboutCarKeysCutAndProgrammed Car Key Cut and Programed Many customers visit their local locksmith shop to get their new car key cut and programmed. The key also needs to be programmed to the specific car. This is done onsite using a key duplicator. Traditional mechanical keys do not require programming. However, many modern cars have keys that are difficult for hardware stores to duplicate and program. Cost A lot of the latest models of automobiles have keys that have transponder chips that must be programmed to function. It is possible to clone keys and program them yourself, but it is better to find an expert locksmith who is a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America. They have the experience and skill to properly clone your key and program it so that it works with your vehicle. In addition to cutting and programming your key, a locksmith can also assist in removing broken keys from the lock and replace them. The cost to have a new car key cut and programmed will depend on the type of key you need. Keys that are basic can be duplicated in just a few minutes, but fobs or remote starter keys can take up to an hour. Key duplication costs can range anywhere from $25 to $100. This includes the price of the key, labor to cut it, and a cost for programming the key into your vehicle. Some car manufacturers only allow dealerships to produce replacement keys. This is because some of these automobiles are "push-to-start" and require key fobs or remote starter keys. Replacing these keys could be very expensive, especially if you lose all of your originals. If you have a traditional/non-transponder key, you can bring it to your local hardware store for a copy. This is less expensive than going to a locksmith or car dealer. However, you must make sure that the hardware store is able to properly rekey your locks to ensure that no one else has access. Some hardware stores will not change the locks on you