Can a spare car key be duplicated?

[DanielaAnn]

Car spare keys can be duplicated. Locations for vehicle key duplication: If a vehicle key is lost, it needs to be duplicated at a qualified locksmith institution or at the brand's after-sales department. Both methods can effectively duplicate the vehicle's remote key, enhancing convenience during vehicle use. This is highly necessary. Alternatively, the lock can be directly replaced. Key duplication solutions: 1. Re-duplicate a smart remote controller. The drawback is that the mechanical lock of the left front door remains unchanged, meaning someone with the key can open the door but cannot start the engine. 2. Duplicate a new smart remote controller and also replace the mechanical lock of the left front door. This completely blocks both the electronic and mechanical parts of the lost key, ensuring greater security.

[OGarrett]

I've tried getting a spare key before. A few years ago, when I lost the key to my old Toyota, I went to the dealership and was surprised they could make a new one, though it took some time. They explained that a regular mechanical key can be copied by a locksmith in just 10 minutes for a few dozen bucks, but a smart key with a chip is more complicated. It requires computer programming to sync with the anti-theft system, costing at least four to five hundred. At first, I tried to save money and went to a roadside stall, but after half a day of effort, the key couldn't start the car, and I almost got stranded. Eventually, I went back to the dealership to get it fixed properly. Since then, I've advised everyone to prepare a spare key at home in advance to avoid the hassle. Of course, some high-end car keys now even have virtual control via apps, and getting a physical spare might require extra authorization steps. It really depends on your car model and key type!

[VanJosie]

I've discussed this topic with mechanics at auto repair shops. In most cases, spare keys can be duplicated, provided you go to the right place. Simple mechanical keys can be copied quickly, even by roadside locksmiths, at a low cost. However, for newer smart keys or models with anti-theft chips, you'll need professionals who can use specialized equipment to synchronize with the car's computer system. I've seen people try to save money by going to unauthorized vendors for key duplication, only to end up with cars that wouldn't start due to sensor issues, wasting hundreds on repairs. For safety, it's best to contact the original manufacturer's 4S store or reputable locksmith shops to prepare spare keys in advance and keep them in a secure place. Of course, costs vary significantly by brand—Japanese cars might cost between 500 to 1,000, while German cars can easily start at 2,000. Remember to keep the original key code for future duplication.

[VanAyla]

Whether a car key can be duplicated depends on its type: ordinary old-style keys without chips are easy and inexpensive to duplicate; those with anti-theft chips or smart remotes require professional programming to match the car's computer system for reliability. It is recommended to prioritize authorized 4S dealerships or professional locksmiths to avoid damage.

[DiMarley]

Spare keys can definitely be duplicated, but you need to choose the right method. When I lost my old Honda key, the locksmith in my neighborhood got it done in 15 minutes for just 80 yuan. However, my neighbor's Mercedes smart key had to be handled by the dealership, taking two days and costing over 2,000 yuan. The key point is that the original key must have its code preserved to duplicate a new one, especially for anti-theft models—don't try to save money or you might end up locking your car. Also, don’t keep spare keys in the car to prevent loss.