I just got a couple of uncut mechanical keys. Should any locksmith, even my local hardware store be able to cut them and copy from the master? I have read that Walmart does it as well. Not sure it's worth a drive down there. But is there any possibility that this can be screwed up? Thanks
Yup, they can screw it up. I took a mechanical key to the local hardware store where they messed it up. I ended up taking another key to a locksmith, who did a perfect job for $10 (!). Note that you don't have to use the mini key that fits in the keyfob - an ordinary Toyota key works fine, and can cost more like $2. The problem is with clamping the mini key into the machine, and the skill of the operator.
I bought a couple of blanks on eBay for about $4 apiece. My biggest fear is that they would screw up my one good key. I do have the little tag with the code still attached to the FOB. Can anyone confirm that Walmart does a good job for very little money? Rob- I am curious what you mean by an ordinary Toyota key?
Your original key should be safe. It's the accuracy of the copy that can be a problem. When they mess up a copy on one of their blanks, they just try again. When they mess up your $4 blank, you're out $4 even if they charge you zero for the cutting.
The $2 copies from hardware stores and the like are full size keys. If you want the kind that fits in a keyfob, you have to get it from a dealer or eBay. I keep several full size keys to hand out when someone else needs access to the car. Then I have a transponder key (works in the ignition) hidden inside the car. The ordinary keys lock/unlock the door, and the transponder key works in the keyslot. Gen2 Prius keyfobs all have transponders in them, which are used when they are plugged into the keyslot. I just extracted one from a keyfob and used it to replace the transponder in a Toyota transponder key.
RobH- well turns out your prescient. Took it to my local hardware store. The very nice guy who cut the key said that their key-cutting machine was the "Cadillac"of cutting machines and he promptly made a key that didn't work. He was smart enough to tell me to try it out before I go pay for it He was very nice about it and apologetic and I certainly told him not to let it ruin his day. It was one of the $4 keys I got on eBay. He did comment that the key is a "little thicker" than the keys they usually cut- I assume he's referring to house/regular car keys, etc. So now- what's my next step? A "real" locksmith? Walmart? Dealer? Thanks
