MEtal KEYS

Illustration of a traditional Metal key, used on older vehicles.
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Mechanical (Metal) Keys

Mechanical keys – sometimes called “plain metal keys” – are the older‑style car keys made entirely of metal. You insert and turn them in the ignition and door locks, and there is no chip, no built‑in remote, and no electronics inside the key itself.

What a mechanical / metal key is

A mechanical key typically:

  • Is a solid metal key with no plastic head or electronics

  • Turns the ignition and/or door locks directly

  • Has no transponder chip and no built‑in remote buttons

  • Can usually be copied by cutting the metal to match the original

If the metal is cut correctly, the key will unlock and start the car; there is no chip programming step like there is with chipped or smart keys.

What we can do with mechanical / metal keys

For most vehicles that still use mechanical keys, we can:

  • Cut new metal keys when all keys are lost

  • Duplicate an existing key quickly when you still have one working original

  • Make spare keys so you are not one mistake away from “all keys lost”

  • Replace worn or bent keys that stick, jam, or only work sometimes

All cutting is done at your vehicle or at our key equipment, depending on what the car needs. There is no chip to program, so these keys are usually the fastest and least expensive keys we make.

Why use a locksmith instead of a dealer

Even for simple metal keys, dealers may still charge dealership‑level prices and require you to bring the vehicle in. A mobile automotive locksmith can:

  • Cut replacement mechanical keys on site where the vehicle sits

  • Often save you money compared to dealer pricing for the same key

  • Help even if the key is broken, missing, or stuck in a lock or ignition

When to call

Mechanical / metal key help is for you if:

  • Your vehicle uses a plain metal key and you only have one left

  • The key is worn, bent, or starting to slip in the ignition

  • You have lost your only metal key and cannot start the car

  • You want extra keys for family members, a valet, or a safe place at home

If you are not sure whether your key is a simple metal key or a chipped / transponder key, look at the pictures on this page or tell us your vehicle’s year, make, and model and what the key looks like.