Lost Car Keys Replacement

All You Need to Know about Car Keys, Programming and more

GM Transponder Key B97-PT

(This type of key is used for Buick, Chevrolet, Oldsmobile, Pontiac & Saturn models)

B97-PT key

Table of Contents

Transponder Key B97-PT - Overview

Chip key overview information

The B97-PT key is a transponder chip-coded key, mostly used for GM models manufactured AFTER 1996. It is used for different models and different years.

As this is a transponder chip key – or coded key – it therefore needs to be programmed/coded to start your vehicle.

The chip is located at the top of the key. It can’t be seen unless you disassemble the plastic cover, which we don’t recommend doing.

B97-PT is sold under a few additional names, depending on the manufacturer – A1 B97S-PT, Bianchi BB97-PT, Curtis C25833, Hata B97-HPT, Ilco B97-PT, Jet B97-PHT, JMA TP05GM-27.P, Orion B97-PT, Silca B97-PT, Strattec 690552. However, B97-PT is the most common one.

Key blank (for online purchase): B97-PT (Click to order online)

Where can I get a new car key made?

Options to get a replacement key

Generally speaking, you have three options:

First, call an automotive locksmith – in most cases this would be your best choice since this type of key needs to be programmed to the car’s computer. The car must therefore be present. This means you either need to call a locksmith, who offers mobile service or tow the car to the dealer.

Second, order the key online – you can order a key blank online and then call a locksmith to cut and program it for you.

Third, dealer – the dealer should be able to make you a replacement key. However, you will need to tow the car there as this type of key needs to be programmed.

To learn more about your options including great tips visit: How to get a replacement key

Is programming or coding needed for this type of key? Does this key have a chip in it? Should it be coded to the car?

No coding needed

Yes. This type of key is a transponder chip key and therefore programming is needed.

In addition, special coding/programming equipment is needed and therefore you will need to either call a locksmith or tow the car to the dealer.

Below, are a few examples of coding machines used by an automotive locksmith to program chip keys:

MaxIM IM608 coding machine for transponder keys
Smart Pro by Advanced Diagnostics coding machine

How much does it usually cost to get a new transponder key?

We’ve researched the average price for this key with dealers, automotive locksmiths, and online. Needless to say, the price varies greatly and depends on where you get it, the time of day, and your location (mobile locksmith service or dealer).

The prices mentioned below are only rough estimates.

Dealer Price:

The dealer should have the key code on file. In addition, it may be necessary to have an additional code or pin to program this key. The dealer should have that as well. Expect to pay about $153.

Please keep in mind that this price DOES NOT include the price of towing the car to the dealer, which will bump up the cost considerably.

Locksmith Price:

A locksmith would charge a service fee plus the price of the blank key, as well as key-cutting and programming charges. Expect to pay about $223 for parts and labor, including programming.

Online Price:

You can get a replacement key online. Usually about $13.

I already have a working key. Can I get a duplicate made at the hardware store/locksmith shop/dealership and will it start the car?

Car key copy machine

Hardware store

No. As a B97-PT is a transponder key, you will need to have it programmed to start the car. This requires a special device that hardware stores don’t carry.

Locksmith shop or dealer:

Yes. You have two options:

A. Programming an additional key WHEN THE CAR IS PRESENT – You can drive the car to a locksmith or to a dealer and they will program an additional key for the car.

B. Cloning a new key – The cloning process is basically having a duplicate made WITHOUT THE NEED TO HAVE THE CAR ON SITE. To make a duplicate of a transponder key / remote, the locksmith needs to have a special device. However, you will need to have a working key that can start the car.

What information will I need to give the locksmith or dealer when I call for the service?

Information to provide a locksmith

First, make sure you have the exact year, make and model, e.g., 2005 Buick Park Avenue.

In addition, write down the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) of the car which you can find on the left side of the dashboard near the side mirror. The VIN will help the locksmith or dealer verify the year, make and model of the car.

It’s important to ask if you can come and pick up the key, or if the car has to be present. When key codes are not available (as happens with older models), an onsite service will be required to make a new key.

You can of course tow the car to the locksmith shop, but that would be more expensive.

Finally, make sure you can show ownership of the car by having the necessary documents – the title, ID, insurance card, etc.