How Does an Auto Locksmith Copy a Non Remote Key?

Need a spare non-remote car key? Auto locksmiths use precise techniques to duplicate standard mechanical keys without electronic components. This guide features ten professional methods locksmiths employ to copy keys for older or basic cars, ensuring drivers have reliable spares for daily commutes or parking lot emergencies.

Locksmiths Verify Ownership and Key Type

Before copying a non-remote car key, locksmiths confirm the driver’s ownership and verify the key is a standard mechanical type. This ensures a secure, legal process tailored to the car’s lock system.

Checking ownership and key type allows locksmiths to select the right duplication method, ensuring an accurate copy without complications.

• Request proof of ownership. Locksmiths ask for ID, registration, or title to verify the driver owns the car, ensuring compliance.

• Confirm key type. They check if the key is non-remote and mechanical, suitable for older or basic car models.

• Prepare quickly. This step takes 2-5 minutes, included in the $10-$50 cost for duplicating a non-remote key.

• Ensure security. Verification prevents unauthorized key copying, protecting the car and locksmith’s reputation.

Locksmiths Use the Original Key for Tracing

When the original key is available, locksmiths trace its shape to create an exact duplicate. This direct method ensures the new key matches the car’s lock perfectly.

Tracing is a straightforward technique for non-remote keys, relying on the original’s physical pattern. Here’s how locksmiths execute it.

• Trace the key’s outline. Locksmiths place the original key on a tracing machine to capture its exact shape and cuts.

• Cut a blank key. They use the traced pattern to cut a new key, ensuring it fits the car’s lock.

• Take 5-10 minutes. This quick process costs $10-$30, depending on the key’s complexity and locksmith rates.

• Test the duplicate. Locksmiths verify the new key works in the car’s door or ignition for reliability.

Locksmiths Decode the Lock Cylinder

Locksmiths decode the car’s lock cylinder to determine the key’s cut pattern. By analyzing the lock’s internal pins, they create a duplicate without needing the original key.

This method is ideal when the original key is lost, ensuring an accurate copy. Here’s how locksmiths perform this technique.

• Access the lock cylinder. Locksmiths remove the door or ignition cylinder carefully to avoid damaging the car.

• Decode the pin pattern. They analyze the cylinder’s pins to identify the key’s cut depths, creating a matching key.

• Cut the new key. This process takes 20-40 minutes, costing $50-$150 due to the labor involved.

• Reassemble and test. Locksmiths ensure the lock is reinstalled and the new key works smoothly.

Locksmiths Use a Key Code from the VIN

Locksmiths retrieve a key code using the car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to copy a non-remote key. The code specifies the exact cuts needed for the key.

This precise method works for many vehicles, especially when the original key is unavailable. Here’s how locksmiths use it.

• Obtain the VIN. Locksmiths check the dashboard, door jamb, or registration for the car’s 17-digit VIN.

• Access the key code. They use the VIN to retrieve the code from manufacturer databases or dealerships.

• Cut the key. The code guides precise cutting, taking 15-30 minutes, costing $30-$100 for non-remote keys.

• Verify functionality. Locksmiths test the new key in the car’s lock to ensure it works perfectly.

Locksmiths Perform Key Impressioning

Locksmiths use impressioning to copy a non-remote key by inserting a blank key into the lock and analyzing the marks. This creates a duplicate based on the lock’s pattern.

This hands-on technique is effective for older cars without the original key. Here’s how locksmiths apply impressioning.

• Insert a blank key. Locksmiths place a blank key in the lock, wiggling it to mark the pin positions.

• File the key. They cut the blank based on the marks, creating a working key in 20-40 minutes.

• Expect higher costs. Impressioning is labor-intensive, costing $50-$150 due to the skill required.

• Test the copy. Locksmiths ensure the new key operates the door or ignition lock smoothly.

Locksmiths Use a Key Cutting Machine

Locksmiths rely on key cutting machines to duplicate non-remote keys accurately. These machines cut a blank key to match the original’s pattern or a decoded template.

This automated method ensures precision for standard mechanical keys. Here’s how locksmiths use key cutting machines.

• Input the key pattern. Locksmiths use the original key or a decoded pattern to set up the cutting machine.

• Cut the blank key. The machine precisely shapes the blank, taking 5-10 minutes for a perfect duplicate.

• Cost-effective process. This method costs $10-$30 for non-remote keys, depending on the car model.

• Test the duplicate. Locksmiths verify the new key works in the car’s lock for reliability.

Locksmiths Consult Manufacturer Databases

Locksmiths access manufacturer databases to retrieve key cut specifications for non-remote keys. These databases provide precise details based on the car’s make and model.

This method is reliable when the original key or lock details are unavailable. Here’s how locksmiths use manufacturer data.

• Access the database. Locksmiths use the car’s VIN or model details to find key cut specifications.

• Cut a new key. They use the data to shape a blank key, taking 15-30 minutes, costing $30-$100.

• Verify ownership. Locksmiths check ID or registration to ensure the process is secure and legitimate.

• Test the key. They ensure the new key fits the car’s lock and operates correctly.

Locksmiths Use a Code-Cutting Machine

Locksmiths employ code-cutting machines to copy non-remote keys using a key code or lock pattern. These machines translate numerical codes into precise key cuts.

This automated method ensures accuracy for standard keys, especially when codes are available. Here’s how locksmiths use it.

• Input the key code. Locksmiths enter the code from the VIN or lock into the code-cutting machine.

• Cut the blank key. The machine shapes the key precisely, taking 5-15 minutes, costing $20-$50.

• Ideal for standard keys. This works for non-remote, mechanical keys without electronic components.

• Verify the copy. Locksmiths test the new key in the car’s door or ignition for functionality.

Locksmiths Coordinate with Dealerships

Locksmiths work with car dealerships to obtain key cut codes for non-remote keys. Dealerships provide accurate specifications based on the car’s VIN or model.

This collaborative method ensures a precise duplicate, especially for specific makes. Here’s how locksmiths use dealership support.

• Contact the dealership. Locksmiths use the VIN to retrieve key cut codes from the manufacturer or dealer.

• Cut the key. They use the code to shape a new key, taking 20-40 minutes, costing $30-$100.

• Require ownership proof. Locksmiths verify ID or registration to ensure a secure, legitimate process.

• Test the duplicate. They confirm the new key works in the car’s lock for reliability.

Locksmiths Manually File a Blank Key

Locksmiths manually file a blank key to match the lock’s pattern, using their expertise to create a duplicate. This hands-on method works when automated tools aren’t available.

Ideal for older cars, manual filing ensures a functional key. Here’s how locksmiths perform this technique.

• Analyze the lock. Locksmiths use impressioning or decoding to determine the key’s cut pattern.

• File the blank. They manually shape the key to match the lock, taking 20-40 minutes, costing $50-$150.

• Best for older models. This works for non-remote, mechanical keys without complex features.

• Test the key. Locksmiths ensure the new key operates the car’s door or ignition smoothly.

Conclusion

Need a non-remote car key copied? Auto locksmiths use these ten expert methods, from tracing to manual filing, to create reliable duplicates. For fast help, our car lockout service connects you to professional auto locksmiths 24/7. Get your spare key and drive with confidence!