duplicate car keys-do i need to go to a dealer?

[hooklahoma]

Can i get this done at the hardware store?

Google and the dealer are not being helpful on this one.

 

[Bookman]

I've always gone to the Home Depot.

Don't some of these new cars have fancy keys that aren't easily copied?

 

[michaelpshayes]

depends on the car and the key

if you have a key with a chip in it ...you have to go to the dealer...I think mine was $75 or so for a duplicate

 

[BigLeonard]

I'd much rather have a chipless key for that exact reason.

 

[next2naus]

dude: re you telling me you didn't get dupes when you made the purchase?

 

[Agent007]

new Lexus keys cost about $150-200 each, and you can't go anywhere but the dealer to have them done...

 

[accuratehorn]

Yes, it depends on whether your key has a chip in it for a factory immobilizer or security system. The only place you get an exact key blank is at the dealer, even if there is no chip in the key. For Hondas, I would definitely recommend the parts department of the dealer-the keys are a bargain, and fit perfectly (that is, plain keys that don't have a chip in them).
I have read of horror stories where the keys were lost on models of cars with immobilizer systems, and the whole computer had to be replaced or reflashed. Make sure you have at least one extra key on those cars.

 

[Boozehound]

One other thing about immobilizer keys - you can always buy the key online, have it cut somewhere, and following your shop manual (if you have the one for your car) I would guess that you could follow the proceedure to reprogram your new key. It's not too hard for my car, but I'm not sure about others.