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Most duplicators don't have enough space between the 2 jaws to hold a key with a large head like remote head keys. HPC Power Speedex Semi-Automatic Key Duplicator (9180MC): ($553.36) This is the least expensive quality duplicator we could find that supports duplication of larger remote head keys such as those made for Chryslers. Complete Set of 14 GM Double-Sided VATS Keys: ($36.75) Ditto.These single-sided keys are for older vehicles, but are more popular than the double-sided version. Complete Set of 15 GM Single-Sided VATS Keys: ($39.50) Technically, these are not transponder keys, but they are important chip keys to have for GM vehicles from the 90s.Starter Pack of 26 High Security Transponder Keys: ($199) If you're cutting high security keys you'll need this bundle.This bundle is updated frequently as car manufacturers release new keys every year. Starter Pack of 85 Transponder Keys: ($590) These are the transponder keys you need to keep in stock to be prepared for what comes.If you plan on being able to program these transponder (sometimes called "chip") keys, you'll need one or more of these starter packs. Now you can't just "hotwire" a car to bypass the mechanical security and drive away with it like they do in the movies. TRANSPONDER KEYS: Starting in the late 90's, most car manufacturers began adding transponder systems into their vehicles as an extra level of security.
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Is it worth an extra five hundred bucks to be prepared for that last 10%? That depends on your plans and your budget. This is appropriate for someone that wants to be as prepared as you can be. LARGE Starter Pack of 2315 Automotive Mechanical Keys: ($999) We estimate that this bundle will prepare you for about 95% of the cars you'll run into out there. For newer vehicles, locksmiths would typically cut one of these cheaper mechanical or "test" keys to test in the lock before cutting a more expensive transponder or remote head key. For older vehicles, these keys are all you need.
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That's your clue to knowing which cars you're most likely to run into in the field.
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Notice that some packs include very little of some keys and many more of the others. If you click on the links below, you'll see the complete list of keys within each Starter Pack. We've tried to make it easy for you by putting together some "Starter Packs" which are our recommendations for what you should be keeping in stock. If you're just getting into the business, it can be a very expensive and time consuming task to try and figure out which keys you should or should not stock. Have we left anything out? Please contact us and let us know so we can add more info for everyone to see.
AUTOMOTIVE KEY CODES HOW TO
Whether you purchase your products from American Key Supply or not, this guide should help you figure out what you need and how to get it. This is general information and it must be noted that all different car manufacturers have different ignitions that require slightly different approaches.So you've decided to look into making car keys for your customers but not sure exactly where to start? This introduction is meant to give you some guidance and tips. To summarize, we will start with the low hanging fruit options and most cost effective ways first, and only if necessary move on to more advanced procedures. Worst case scenario equals drilling the ignition lock, coding a new lock to your existing key, and installing it. We are usually successful in turning the lock with this manner, and can successfully remove and refurbish the cylinder. If this doesn't work, we would next decode your key and cut a new metal blank to factory specifications (has no wear), and try it on the lock. We will start in this case by lubricating and lightly tapping the key while attempting to turn, which sometimes results in successfully turning the lock- which can now be removed for service. Most ignitions, in order to be removed and serviced, need to turn to either the accessory position or the on position.
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