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Where to get duplicate keys made?

1.8K views 7 replies 6 participants last post by  AstroWill  
#1 ·
Dealer in Hickory, NC just quoted me $22 per key!

Any ideas / suggestions?
 
#2 ·
If you have a very good original, you can get copies many places.

Mine (210K+) came with a badly worn key, and a VERY badly worn key as a 'spare'.
Soon after getting it home, I began having 'crank, but no start' trouble ( the PO had mentioned sometimes it was difficult to get going, and that definitely affected the sales price, in my favor).
It would crank fine, and occasionally fire once or twice upon releasing the key to the RUN position.
After much diagnostic work, I decided it was related to the Pass-loc system and probably the ignition portion. At first I suspected it might be the electrical portion of the ignition switch, so I ordered one. It is still in the original box.
A new key, cut from the original code solved the problem.
I would highly recommend you go for a new key cut from the original code. The $20+ will be well spent for peace of mind, particulalry if you might have to have it towed once, or spend any time with a mechanic trying to figure out what the problem may be.
Best of luck.
Rod J
Issaquah, WA
 
#5 ·
A new key, cut from the original code solved the problem.
I would highly recommend you go for a new key cut from the original code. The $20+ will be well spent for peace of mind, particulalry if you might have to have it towed once, or spend any time with a mechanic trying to figure out what the problem may be.
This, but call around, some dealers are significantly cheaper than others. Also let them know that you have a working key, because some won't charge you a 'code lookup fee' if you have an existing key. Then take that brand new key and get a copy/copies made at WM for $2 or whatever it is these days and USE THAT KEY AS YOUR WORKING KEY(s), keep the original code cut key as a backup. When you need a new key, use the backup to have a cheap copy made again.
 
#6 ·
Thanks all. I did call around and found several locksmiths willing to copy the existing key for $3 ($3.50 w/rubber head!) and finally the local "Hometown" Hardware Store said they had several blanks and would make copies for $3.

Local LOWES and closest HOME DEPOT said "We don't cut car keys" they both have the machines that cut standard House Keys.

AutoZone, O'Reilly's and Advance Auto Parts folks all touted me to LOWES or HOME depot - the help can't be trusted to know sh*t! (IMHO/E).

Interesting anecdote from Rods Trucks! Knowing how locks work - either locked or not, as I recall, that situation's "a puzzlement."

Good point about getting a CODE key made. (And checking other Chevy Dealers or a price!)

It appears the van I bought with 109K on the clock was properly and carefully maintained - my favorite mechanic, looking at the front end parts today so advised.

Thanks again for the feedback.
 
#8 ·
Yes, they use the VIN, just take your current registration to the dealer and they can take care of it for you.