Key Duplication
Expert Key Duplication in Bismarck, ND
At Warren’s Locks and Keys, we offer key duplication services for homes, vehicles, and businesses in Bismarck, Mandan, Lincoln, and the surrounding North Dakota communities. Our locksmith services cover basic house keys, a wide range of car keys, and various commercial keys. We focus on transparent pricing, accurate key cutting, and keys that feel right in the lock.
We are a family-operated locksmith shop that has served the Bismarck and Mandan areas since 1971. Our team operates from a staffed storefront in Bismarck and provides mobile services for various key needs. We support our work with ongoing training and a 1-year warranty on parts and labor, reflecting our commitment to quality and reliable service.
Key Duplication Services We Offer
Depending on the type of key you want us to copy, we’ll use a manual duplication machine, like the one shown here, for single-sided keys. For high-security car keys (sidewinders), dimple keys, and other types of high-security keys, a specialized laser model is necessary.
Spare keys help you avoid lockouts, share access, and protect your time and money. We create backup keys for various locks and situations, ensuring that life and work continue to move smoothly.
- Residential key cutting for house and garage doors, including many common lock brands
- Automotive key duplication for metal keys, remote head keys, flip keys, fobs, and remotes
- Commercial key duplication for office doors, storage rooms, and many commercial lock systems
For homes, we copy keys for front doors, side doors, back doors, and garage entry doors. You can keep a spare at home, at the office, or with a trusted contact. We cut each key to match the original and check that the copy operates the lock smoothly.
For vehicles, we cut and program key duplicates for most domestic and foreign makes and models. We select the correct key blank from our stock, cut it on our key machine, and test the copy. For supported vehicle models, we can also create and program new keys or key fobs that both turn the lock and work with the vehicle’s system.
For Bismarck businesses, we duplicate keys for many office and commercial locks. We also handle many high-security and restricted key systems, where control over key copies is crucial. In such cases, we follow your key control rules and maintain clear records of the number of keys we cut and to whom they are issued.
How Our Key Copying Process Works
We keep the key-cutting process simple. The first step is to identify the key type and choose the correct key blank. We then cut the new key on a specialized key-cutting machine that traces the cuts in the original key and duplicates them on the new key. After cutting, we deburr and clean the new key so the edges are smooth and comfortable to use.
When possible, we will test the new key in the lock or ignition, or we will ask you to test it at your home, office, or vehicle. We explain the price before we start cutting, so you know what to expect, and we do not add hidden fees after the work is done. If a key is too worn, bent, or damaged to copy safely, we will inform you of our findings and may suggest key replacement, lock rekeying, or other options to ensure your locks and keys continue to function correctly.
Some vehicle keys, especially transponder keys and certain key fobs, require both cutting and programming to function correctly. In those cases, the process may require access to the vehicle so we can complete programming and test all functions. We explain these steps in advance so you understand the time and cost involved.
Car Key Copies, Transponder Keys, and Fobs
A key laser duplication machine works using a tracer to follow the cuts in an original key, while a connected laser simultaneously cuts the same pattern into a blank key. In this image, we’re cutting a duplicate of the automotive remote head key on the left.
Car keys and truck keys require special care because many modern vehicles utilize chips and remotes as part of their security systems. Some older vehicles use standard metal keys that we can duplicate from the original without any electronic work. Many newer vehicles use transponder keys or remote key fobs that require both precise cutting and electronic programming.
We can duplicate many metal car and truck keys for personal and work vehicles. When you still have a working key, we often can create a second or third key to use as a spare or to share with another driver. For supported vehicle models, we can cut and program specific transponder keys and key fobs to start the vehicle and operate lock and unlock functions.
In many cases, working with a local locksmith is more practical and more affordable than using a dealership for basic key copies or extra keys. We review your vehicle year, make, and model and explain what type of key or fob you have, what the process requires, and what the price is. If a vehicle key clone or key fob program is not possible for your specific model, we will inform you and explain any alternatives, such as a full key replacement or dealer programming.
Key Copies for Homes and Offices
House and office keys are used daily as people come and go. Over time, keys and locks wear out, and key control can weaken as people move, change jobs, or misplace their keys. Key duplication, combined with a simple key plan, helps you stay ahead of these issues.
Our residential locksmith services include key copying, allowing family members, roommates, and trusted neighbors or friends to enter when needed. We can talk through which doors should share the same key and how many copies make sense for your household. If we notice heavy wear on a key or lock, we may recommend rekeying or replacing the lock so that the new key does not carry over old problems.
For offices and small commercial properties, we duplicate keys for staff, managers, and service providers. Many businesses operate within a master key system or high-security system, where key counts must be closely controlled. We respect those rules, record which keys we cut, and help you keep track of which keys go with which doors and people. Clear records and well-cut keys support both daily access and long-term security for your property.
Get in Touch With Warren’s Locks and Keys About Key Copies
If you want to add a spare key, prepare for lost keys, or share controlled access with family, staff, or tenants, we are ready to help. Warren’s Locks and Keys offers key duplication services for homes, vehicles, and businesses throughout the Bismarck area, with a focus on precise key cutting and transparent information about pricing and the key duplication process. Contact us today to ask about key duplication and get expert help.
Key Duplication FAQs
How much does it cost to make a copy of my key?
The price for key duplication depends on the key type. Basic house and office keys cost less than most car keys and transponder keys. High-security and restricted keys also cost more because they use special key blanks and cutting methods. Once you tell us what key you have and how many copies you need, we can provide a clear price before we cut any keys.
Where can I duplicate a house key in Bismarck, ND?
You can bring your house key to our locksmith shop in Bismarck for professional key cutting. We copy many common residential keys and check that the key copy matches the original key pattern. Working with a locksmith helps protect lock function and reduce the risk of a poor copy that can damage a lock.
Can you duplicate car keys and truck keys?
Yes. We duplicate many metal car keys and truck keys and can create spare keys when you still have a working original key. For some vehicles, we can also cut and program transponder keys and certain key fobs. We will ask for your vehicle year, make, and model so we can explain what is possible for your vehicle in ND.
Is it safe to duplicate a car key at a locksmith instead of a dealer?
For many vehicles, it is safe and practical to duplicate car keys at a locksmith. We use proper machines, key blanks, and programming tools. In many cases, our services are more affordable than those of a dealership for basic key copies and extra keys, while still protecting your vehicle’s locks and security systems.
Which keys cannot be copied?
Some keys have “do not duplicate” or restricted markings and require special authorization before duplication. Certain high-security keys and electronic keys also have restrictions on who can copy them and the number of copies that can exist. If you bring the key to our shop, we can check the type, explain any restrictions, and tell you if duplication is allowed.
What if my original key is worn or damaged?
If the original key is badly worn, bent, or cracked, copying it can cause problems. In that case, we may suggest creating a new key from a code, rekeying the lock, or replacing the lock and starting fresh with new keys. We will review the key and provide you with honest advice before we proceed.
Can you duplicate office and commercial keys?
Yes. We duplicate many office keys and commercial lock keys, including some high-security systems. If your business uses a master key system or restricted keys, we follow your key control rules and keep records of the keys we cut. This helps you manage who has access to each door.
Do you charge hidden fees for key duplication?
No. We explain key duplication prices before we start cutting and do not add hidden fees at the end. If a key type requires extra work, such as programming for a transponder or key fob, we describe that cost in advance so you can decide how to proceed.
How long does key duplication usually take?
The time required depends on the key type and the number of copies needed. Simple house keys often take a short time to cut, while some vehicle keys and key fobs require extra steps and testing. When you visit or call, we can inform you about what to expect for your specific key, allowing you to plan your day accordingly.