Drive sales with ChipKey® car keys
Bring dealership-level key duplication to your store with a retail friendly program that’s designed for success. ChipKey car keys take the complex world of automotive key technology and package it into a quick, easy-to-use solution that’s convenient for both hardware stores and consumers.
Most consumers aren’t aware they can get a replacement car key right at their local hardware store – and that’s a huge opportunity for new business. ChipKey car keys make it easy for customers to get a new car key quickly and affordably, right where they shop, driving the sales of any key center.
Programs to suit
your key center
With different levels of ChipKey technology, retailers have the flexibility to choose a program that best fits the needs of their store and their customers. Allowing locations to start small and easily upgrade as their key centers grow.
Designed for every day retail associates, employees of all skill levels can confidently duplicate automotive transponder keys, providing a high-tech service that saves customers time and money, compared to automotive dealerships.
The keys to success
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IN-STORE TRAINING
All ChipKey programs include in-store installation and training, teaching store associates how to successfully sell and duplicate ChipKey car keys.
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POP & IN-STORE SIGNAGE
Most customers aren’t aware they can purchase ChipKey car keys from their local hardware store. Each ChipKey program comes with a variety of in-store signage to inform customers of this service and to drive sales.
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CHIPKEY RESOURCE CENTER
Access additional marketing materials, exclusive to authorized ChipKey dealers. Resources include training materials, pre-designed ChipKey car key ads, marketing and promotional materials, ChipKey car key news, and more!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Most vehicle keys contain a computer transponder, or “chip,” in the head of the key that contains coded data. That data is programmed to the vehicle’s security system, stored in the vehicle’s memory bank and is required to start the car.
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If a vehicle uses a transponder key, a transponder key with a matching, recognized code must be used to start the vehicle. In these instances, a non-transponder key can only be used to unlock the car doors and trunk.
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The computer chip in the key holds a code like a password and that code is sent to the vehicle when the key is turned in the ignition or the push-to-start ignition button is pressed. The computer in the vehicle reads the password in the key, and if the password is correct the vehicle will start. Otherwise, the vehicle will be inoperable. This extra layer of security is a proven deterrent to theft making it more difficult to steal a car.
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ChipKey car keys are replacement automotive transponder keys available from Midwest Fastener. Our selection of ChipKey car keys covers the majority of the automotive key market and has been in retail locations for nearly two decades. ChipKey car keys range from a basic transponder key, which is your basic key that must be turned in the ignition to start a vehicle, all the way to the advanced integrated remotes and push-to-start proximity keys.
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Two different methods of programming are used for duplicating ChipKey car keys. The first is cloning, where the code on an existing key is copied to a new ChipKey car key, creating a duplicate copy or clone. The other method is On-Board-Diagnostic (OBD) programming where an OEM style key with an existing code has its code programmed to the customer’s vehicle. In this case, a new key is being added to the vehicle’s memory bank. Both programming methods require specialized tooling and software for duplication. The keys must be cut on either an edge-cut or sidewinder key cutting machine.
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The key is no longer a key. It is a high-tech device that communicates electronically with the vehicle’s computer with a unique security code. Most vehicles today use transponder keys that contain special-coded computer chips. This technology is a very expensive component of the vehicle which was designed to protect against vehicle theft. ChipKey car keys must be programmed to work with a particular vehicle. Programming these keys requires specialized equipment operated by a trained technician.
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No, only one working original transponder key is needed to make a duplicate ChipKey car key.
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In many cases, a standard ChipKey car key can be made from an original key with an integrated remote. Check the keys available for that specific vehicle to see what options are available.
