Where to Get Car Keys Cut
It is crucial to get your car keys cut. This will save you a significant amount of money at the dealer. It also stops you from being stuck without a functioning key.
Modern keys contain transponders which must be programmed to work with the vehicle. Luckily that your local AutoZone has the tools to produce these key replacements for a fraction of the price.
What type of key will I need?
There are a variety of different kinds of keys. The most basic key is the standard key. It does not have any encryption, and is just a piece metal that fits into the lock. Keys of this type are often used in older cars.
A key with four sides or a double-sided side is more secure and is easily identified by having two or four sets of teeth on the opposite sides of the blade. These keys are difficult to pick and can help in preventing burglaries as they require more strength to open the locks.
Another type of key is a transponder key that is equipped with a microchip that is programmed to start the car. This technology helps reduce theft because the key is only compatible with the specific vehicle. Transponder keys may be slightly more expensive than mechanical keys or traditional keys, but they are more secure. security.
Most times, when you require a new key, your local AutoZone store will have the parts and the knowledge to complete it immediately. Just provide them with the year, MAKE, and MODEL and they will take charge of the rest.
Certain modern vehicles have remote fobs that have to be programmed with the vehicle's computer, which requires specialized tools and software. car key programming and cutting prefer to contact their dealership to get this service however, it's not always needed. You can also search the internet for replacement keys and fobs from the aftermarket at a lower cost than what you'd spend at a dealership. Before you buy make a purchase, you should be aware that these key fobs are hackable, so make sure you get a trusted source.
Where can I have a key cut for me?
The majority of auto locksmiths can cut standard keys for cars. To give you the right blank for your key, they will need to know your vehicle's year and make, as well as the model. They will then cut it on the spot using a precise machine. However, some modern automobile keys like fobs also contain transponder chips built-in that require special programming specific to the vehicle. It is possible to have these types of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores but they won't have the tools to duplicate or program the chip.
The most common method of duplication for a standard auto key is a user choosing the correct blank key and positioning it next to your existing key as an example. The original contours of the key are traced by a machine to create duplicates. Bring your original key in case it has small scratches. These will be incorporated into the new key.
Mister Minit stores are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate keys for a variety of automobiles. It is helpful to have the year, make and model of your vehicle together with the remote fob or key so that we can accurately select the right blank for your replacement key. Many stores can assist with the process of programming the new key into your vehicle if it's one with a push button start feature.
What equipment will I need?
Modern key blades require precise tools to guarantee the perfect cut required by modern ignitions. Making a new key to cars is more difficult than making copies of one that is already in place. It requires specialized equipment which is only available in key cutters equipped with the right tools.
The majority of vehicles sold in Australia have a transponder chip embedded in the key fob. This chip must be programmed into your vehicle before it can be used. This is a security feature that started in the 1990's to stop increasing car theft in Australia and has since become the norm for all new vehicles that are sold today.
This means a spare or replacement key needs to be cut using lasers and programmed to the specific car you own, which is a time-consuming and expensive procedure. The majority of Mister Minit locations are equipped with the equipment and know-how to duplicate the key you have. All you have to bring is your existing key and, if you have it, the year, model and make of your vehicle so that we can determine the right code for programming your new key.
If you have a newer car, it could be beneficial to have a spare key cut for your car's push button start that includes an electronic key fob (which can be programmed to the vehicle independently). The majority of Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a spare or replacement key. You'll need your car key, and if possible the year and make of both keys, so we can determine which key is a transponder and program it to your vehicle.
Can I cut a key by myself?
Many big-box stores and hardware stores offer a key cutting service for a small cost. They use a machine to track the contours of your original key in order to create an exact replica. This works for older keys that do not have a chip. Modern automobiles require that the key fob be programmed. This is a complicated task and requires special equipment and expertise. This kind of work is best to locksmiths, who have access to the equipment and tools needed.
You can also visit an automated key cutting kiosk such as one run by KeyMe. They are convenient, however they are not able to cut all kinds of keys. Certain keys are able to be copied, whereas other keys that are special need to be mailed in for processing. Make sure that you aren't attempting to make a copy of a key that has "Do Not Duplicate" on it. If this is the case, you'll need to contact a locksmith help.
A locksmith can be more convenient by coming to your home or workplace. They can cut keys quickly and reprogram your fob, if needed. This will avoid the hassle of having to drive to a store and wait in line.
Dealerships know cars but they don't know everything about keys. They have their own mechanics and interior technology experts, but the key-cutting process is not their expertise. Dealerships are big corporations that have strict rules in order to maximize their profits. They report to car companies, who in turn, report to shareholders and investors who expect to earn money every quarter. This is not a good way to provide excellent customer service, particularly when it comes time to cut the car keys.
Where can I get a locksmith cut a key for me?
Keys can be cut at hardware stores or self-service key copy kiosks, but the best option is a locksmith business. They are licensed and experienced and have the tools to duplicate most types of keys. They can also assist you to program your new car key fob, or transponder chip.
Most standard keys are cut by a special key duplicator, with the original key acting as the template. The blank key is positioned on the opposite side, and both keys are pushed through the machine's cutting blade, resulting in an exact copy of the original. For certain types of keys such as car keys or key fobs, the process can take longer because they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
Certain keys are marked "do duplicate" to stop copies that are not authorized. This is a security measure. However, this doesn't mean the key can't be copied. However, it could take longer since locksmiths have to examine the key to ensure it is not tampered.
Other keys can be restricted, and require proof of ownership before they can be cut or copied. This is typically because they have a unique mechanical feature or a strange shape. This is to stop the keys from being used for stealing items or gaining access to secure areas.
For these specialty keys, you'll need to speak with a local locksmith or visit their website to determine whether they have the equipment and knowledge to cut keys. If they can, you will pay a bit more if you were to get a basic key made at the hardware store or self-service kiosk. But, it's cheaper and less stressful to replace the key that has been lost.