A plain cut key turns in the ignition but the engine won't fire unless a tiny transponder chip sends the immobiliser the correct code. We cut the blade and program the chip, so the key unlocks, turns and starts.
For keyless push-start cars, see keyless entry programming and smart key replacement — those use a different process.
We work with fixed-code, rolling-code and encrypted transponders used across most makes. A chipped spare made now is far cheaper than an all-keys-lost job later.
You're paying for the transponder and the programming time, not just the blade — the chip is what lets the car start.
Yes, for most common makes. Some newer encrypted systems take longer, and we'll say so when we quote.
Most cars from the late 1990s on do. Send your make, model and year and we'll confirm.