Where to Get Car Keys Cut
Cutting your car keys is an essential service that could save you from a huge cost at the dealership. This will also keep you from being stuck if your key breaks.
Modern keys contain transponders which need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle. Luckily, your local AutoZone has the equipment to produce these key replacements for only a fraction of the cost.
What kind of key do I need?
There are several different kinds of keys. The most basic type of key is the standard key. It does not have any encoding, and it is merely a piece of metal that fits into the lock. They are commonly used on older vehicles.
A four-sided or double-sided key is a safer option and is easily identified by having two or four sets of teeth on opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to locate and can assist in preventing break-ins since they require additional strength to open the lock.
Transponder keys are a second type of key. They are equipped with an embedded microchip that is programmed to start your vehicle. This technology reduces theft since the key can only be used with the vehicle in question. Transponder keys are more expensive than mechanical or traditional keys, but they offer added security.
Most of the time, if you require a replacement key, your local AutoZone store has the necessary parts and the knowledge to complete it quickly. All you need to do is give them the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle, and they'll take care of it for you.
Some modern cars have remote controls that need to be programmed into the vehicle's computer in order to work. This requires specialized tools and software. Many people call their dealer for this service, but it is not always necessary. You can also look online for replacement keys/fobs that are available at much lower prices than what you'd pay at a dealer. But, before you start looking, it's important to note that these keyfobs could be stolen, so be sure to choose a reliable source.
Where can I get a key cut for me?
The majority of auto locksmiths can cut standard car keys. They'll need to know the year and make and model of your vehicle to provide you with the correct key blank and cut it with precise machinery on site. However, certain modern car keys, like fobs, also come with transponder chips that require special programming specific to the vehicle. Home Depot and similar stores may be able to copy these keys, but they will not have the equipment needed to duplicate the chip or program it.
A typical process for duplicating keys for a traditional car key involves an associate choosing the appropriate key blank and positioning it against your current key to serve as an outline. The original contours of the key are traced by a machine to make a duplicate. Bring your original key if it has any small scratches. These will be incorporated into your new key.
Mister Minit stores are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate keys for most automobiles. It is helpful to have the year model, make and year of your vehicle together with the remote fob or key to ensure that we choose the correct blank for your replacement key. Many stores can also program the new key if the vehicle is an auto-start model with a push button.
What equipment do I require?
Modern ignitions require precise tools to ensure a flawless cut. Making a new key to automobiles is more complicated than copying one that already exists. It requires specialized equipment, which is only available in key cutters equipped with the correct tools.
The key fobs in the majority of cars sold in Australia come with a transponder that is programmed to your vehicle. This security feature was introduced in the 1990s to combat the increasing incidence of theft from cars in Australia. It has since become standard for all new cars that are sold in the present.
This can be a lengthy and expensive procedure that is time-consuming and costly. key cutting services near me or spare key has to be laser cut and then programmed for your particular car. Most Mister Minit locations are equipped with the equipment and expertise to duplicate the key you have. All you need to do is bring your existing key and, if you can identify the year and model of your vehicle so we can determine the right code for programming your new key.
If you have a brand newer car, it may also be worth having a spare key cut for your push button start car that comes with an electronic key fob (which can be programmed to the vehicle separately). 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 it is possible the year and make of the keys, so that we can determine which key is transponder and then program it to your vehicle.
Can I cut my own keys?
Many big-box retailers and stores offer key cutting services for a nominal cost. They use a machine that tracks the original contours of the key to make an exact duplicate. This method is suitable on older keys that do not contain chips. Modern automobiles require that the key fob be programmed. This is a challenging task that requires specialized equipment and knowledge. Locksmiths are better equipped to tackle this type of task, because they have the right equipment and tools.
You can also go to the kiosk that cuts keys, such as the one operated by KeyMe. These are convenient, but they are not able to cut all types of keys. Some common keys can easily be copied. Other specialty keys must be mailed to be processed. You should not try to copy a key containing the words "Do Not Duplicate". If this is the case, you'll need to contact a locksmith help.
A locksmith is more convenient when visiting your home or work. They can cut a key and even reprogram your fob if necessary. You will not have to drive to the store and stand in a long line.
Dealerships are experts in automobiles however, they are not necessarily experts in keys. The process of cutting keys isn't their area of expertise. They have their own interior technology and mechanics. Dealerships are large corporations who have strict rules to maximize their profits. They report to car companies that, in turn, provide quarterly reports to shareholders and investors. These conditions are not conducive to good customer service when cutting keys to cars.
Where can I have a locksmith cut a key for me?
You can cut keys at hardware stores or self-service kiosks to copy keys, but the best place to go is a locksmith business. They are certified, knowledgeable and have the equipment necessary to duplicate the majority of keys. In addition, they are able to assist you in programming a new car key fob or transponder chip.
The majority of keys are cut using a special key duplicator, with the original key serving as a template. A blank key is placed on the opposite side, and both keys are moved through the machine's specialized cutter making a duplicate of the original key. For some key types such as car keys or key fobs, the process can take longer since they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
Some keys are marked "do duplicate" to protect against copies made by unauthorized copyists. This is a security measure. It doesn't mean that the key cannot be copied. However, it may take longer as a locksmith has to inspect the key to make sure that it's not damaged.
Certain keys are restricted and require proof of ownership in order to cut or copy them. This is typically because they have distinctive mechanical features or have a unique shape, and is done to prevent them from being used to steal items or get into secured locations.
You will need to contact the local locksmith to find out whether they are able to cut these special keys. You can also go to their website to check whether the locksmith has the necessary equipment and expertise. If they do, you will be charged a little more than if you were to get a basic key made at an hardware store or self-service kiosk. But, it's more affordable and less stressful to replace the key that has been lost.