Transponder Keys Cut & Programmed
A transponder key has a chip in the head that talks to the immobiliser. Cut the blade without programming the chip and the car will crank and die every time, which is why a hardware-store copy is not a car key.
We cut the blade to the vehicle's key code and then program the transponder through the diagnostic port so the immobiliser recognises it. Both halves happen in your driveway or wherever the car is parked.
Most vehicles from the mid-nineties onward are immobilised. If yours is older and has no chip, you need a plain mechanical key instead and the price drops considerably.
What the job involves
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Cut and coded in one visit
Blade to the key code, chip to the immobiliser.
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Domestic, Asian and most European
Programming equipment covers the great majority of makes on Texas roads.
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Old keys wiped on request
If a key is unaccounted for, we can clear it from the system.
Transponder Keys: what it costs
Typical Austin-metro ranges. Your exact number is quoted on the phone.
| Job | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Transponder key cut & programmedMost makes from the mid-nineties on | $120 – $250 |
| Duplicate from a working keyChipped or chipless | $70 – $180 |
| All keys lostKey originated from the VIN, no tow needed | $200 – $450 |
| Blank cut, no programmingMechanical key or valet blade | $25 – $70 |
| Service call / dispatchCharged once per visit, never per lock | $29 – $49 |
| Nights, Sundays & holidaysQuoted on the phone before a van is sent | +$25 – $65 |
These are the ranges most jobs in the Austin metro land between. The exact number is quoted on the phone before a technician is dispatched, and it is the number on the invoice. Parts are itemised separately and priced from a rate card, not invented at the door.
Common questions
Why will a hardware-store copy not start my car?
Because it has no chip, or an unprogrammed one. The blade turns the ignition, the immobiliser refuses fuel, and the engine dies within a couple of seconds.
Do you need my original key?
It helps and it makes the job cheaper, but it is not required. Without one we originate the key from the VIN with your proof of ownership.
Can you wipe a key somebody else has?
Yes, on most makes we can clear all stored keys and program only the ones in your hand.
Part of our Car Key Replacement & Programming work. Covering Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Georgetown, Leander, Lakeway, Kyle, Buda, Hutto, Manor and Dripping Springs.
What Austin says
about us
Reviews left by customers across Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park and Pflugerville.
Locked myself out at eleven at night with a toddler asleep upstairs. Quoted me on the phone, arrived in half an hour, had the door open in under five minutes without a scratch on it. Charged exactly what was quoted.
Marisol Trevino
Homeowner, Mueller
We turn over about forty units a year and they handle every rekey. Invoiced to the office, keying schedule emailed the same day, never had to chase them.
Dwayne Whitfield
Property manager, North Austin
Dealer wanted a tow plus two days for a lost Kia key. These guys did it in my driveway in about an hour for a lot less. Two keys, both tested before he left.
Priya Raghunathan
Driver, Cedar Park
Panic bar failed on a Friday during service. They came out after close, fixed it properly and talked me through what the inspector would be looking for.
Ben Ostrowski
Restaurant owner, East Sixth
Locked out? We answer the phone at 3 a.m.
One call gets a licensed, insured technician rolling to you anywhere in the Austin metro.
