How to Make an Extra Car Key?
2 Answers
To make a duplicate car key, it is necessary to program the key according to the chip code; otherwise, the entire car lock and electronic circuits will need to be reinstalled and reconfigured. Often, during the process of making a car key, attention should be paid to information security. Many times, information security involves personal information and vehicle details. Since the car door lock is a mechanical lock without electronic anti-theft features, it can be opened as long as the key's teeth are correct. Therefore, the biggest risk is that items inside the car may be stolen.
I just helped a friend with this a few days ago, and key duplication actually requires some attention to detail. For traditional mechanical keys, it's straightforward—just find a reliable locksmith shop, bring the original key, and they can directly copy a new one for you, costing only a few dozen yuan. However, many modern car keys come with chips or remote functions, like those for SUVs or luxury cars. These can't be duplicated casually—you must go to a 4S dealership or a professional automotive service provider for programming. Otherwise, the new key won't be recognized by the car's lock, and you won't be able to open the door at all. The entire process typically costs between a couple hundred to five or six hundred yuan, depending on the car brand and key technology. I suggest you first check your car key type: for ordinary keys, choose a locksmith shop to save money and time; if it's a remote key with buttons, then play it safe and visit a 4S dealership—don't cheap out with street vendors to avoid ending up with an invalid key or security risks. Also, get into the habit of keeping a spare key to avoid panicking when you lose one.