Where to Get Car Keys Cut
Getting your car keys cut is an essential service that will help you avoid a large cost at the dealership. It also stops you from being stuck without a functioning key.
Modern keys have transponders that must be programmed to work with the specific vehicle you have. Luckily that your local AutoZone has the equipment to create these key replacements at a fraction of the price.
What kind of key do I need?
There are many different types of keys. The most basic key is the traditional key. It doesn't have any encoder, and is just a piece of metal that fits inside locks. These keys are commonly used in older cars.
A double-sided or four-sided key is a safer option and is easily identified by having two or four teeth on the opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to pick and can help in preventing burglaries as they require more strength to open the locks.
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 because the key can only be used with a particular vehicle. Transponder keys may be slightly more expensive than traditional keys or mechanical keys, but they provide greater security.
Most times, when you require a new key you can find your local AutoZone store has the necessary parts and knowledge to do it immediately. All you need to do is provide them with the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle, and they'll handle it for you.
Certain modern vehicles come with remote fobs that have to be programmed with the vehicle's computer to work, which requires specialized tools and software. Although many prefer to call their dealer to get this service but it's not always required. You can also search online for after market replacement keys and fobs that are readily available for a fraction of the price you'd find at a dealership. Before you do take a look, make sure you are aware that these keys can be hacked, so make sure you get a trusted source.
Where can I get the key cut?
Most auto locksmiths are able to cut standard keys for cars. They'll need the year, make and model of your vehicle in order to provide you with a proper key blank and cut it using precise machinery on site. Certain modern car keys, such as fobs, have transponder chips that require specialized programming. You may be able to have these types of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores but they won't have the equipment to clone or program the chip.
The typical key duplication procedure for a standard auto key is a user choosing the appropriate blank key and placing it next to the existing key to serve as an example. A machine then trace the initial contours of your key to create a duplicate. It is best to bring along your original key in case it has a few tiny scratches, as these will be incorporated into the new key.
Mister Minit stores have the special equipment needed to duplicate the keys of most automobiles. It is helpful to have the year the make and model of your car handy together with your remote fob or key so that we can choose the correct blank for your replacement key. Many stores will also program the new key if your car is a push-button start model.
What equipment do I need?
Modern ignitions require specialized tools to ensure a perfect cut. Making a new key to cars is more difficult than replicating one already in use. It requires special equipment which is only available in key cutters with the right tools.
The majority of automobiles sold in Australia have a transponder chip that is integrated into the key fob that requires to be programmed to your vehicle before it can be used. This security feature was introduced in the 1990s to counter the increasing incidence of theft from cars in Australia. It has since become a standard feature for all new vehicles sold today.
It can be a lengthy and expensive process that can be costly and time-consuming. A replacement or spare key must be laser cut, and then programmed for your specific vehicle. Fortunately, the majority of Mister Minit locations have the special equipment and know-how to do this for you and all you need is your current working key you wish to have duplicated and, if possible the year, make and model of your car so that we can determine the right code to program your new key.
It may be worth getting an extra key for your push-button start car. The key will come with a key fob that can be programmed separately to the car. Getting Continued or replacement key cut and programmed is a fast and simple process at many Mister Minit stores. You will need your car key, and if you can, the year, make and model of both keys, so that we can determine which key has a transponder and program it to your vehicle.
Can I cut my own keys?
Many big-box retailers and stores provide key cutting services for a small cost. They use an instrument that follows the original contours of your key to make an exact duplicate. This works for keys older than without a chip in them. Modern cars require that a key fob be programmed. This is a complicated task and requires special equipment and skills. This kind of job is best to locksmiths, who have access to the equipment and tools needed.
You can also visit a kiosk that cuts keys, such as the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient but do not cut every kind of key. Keys that are common can be copied, while other specialty keys need to be sent in for processing. Be sure you're not attempting to make a copy of a key with "Do Not Duplicate" on it. You'll need to call an experienced locksmith in this situation.
A locksmith may also provide the convenience of visiting your workplace or home. They can cut keys quickly and reprogram your fob, in the event that it is required. This will avoid the inconvenience of having to drive to a store and wait in line.
Dealerships are familiar with cars however they don't know anything about keys. They have their own experts in interior technology and mechanics but cutting keys is not their expertise. Dealerships are big corporations that adhere to strict guidelines to protect their bottom line. They report to car companies who in turn, report to shareholders and investors that expect monetary gains every quarter. These circumstances are not conducive to providing good customer service when cutting car keys.
Where can I get a key made by locksmiths?
Keys can be cut at hardware stores or self-service kiosks to copy keys However, the best place to go is a locksmith business. Read A lot more are licensed, experienced and have the tools to duplicate all types of keys. They can also assist you to program your new car key fob, or transponder chip.
The original key can be used as a template to cut most standard keys. A blank key is placed on the opposite side and both keys are moved through the machine's specialized cutter, creating a copy of the original key. Certain key types, like fobs and car keys require more time because they need to be programmed to your vehicle.
Certain keys are marked "do duplicate" to protect against copies made by unauthorized copyists. This is a security measure. However, this doesn't mean the key can't be copied. However, it will take longer since a locksmith has to inspect the key to make sure it is not tampered.
Certain keys are restricted and require proof of ownership to cut or copy them. It is usually because they possess a unique mechanical characteristic or a strange shape. This is done to prevent the keys from being used to steal items or entering secure areas.
You will need to contact an area locksmith to find out whether they are able cut these keys. You can also go to their website to check whether the locksmith has the necessary equipment and expertise. If they do, you should expect to pay a bit more than getting a basic key cut at an hardware store or self-service kiosks, however it will be cheaper and less stressful than replacing the car key that was lost.
