Everything You Need To Know About Car Keys Cut
Where to Get Car Keys Cut
Cutting your car keys is an essential service that could save you from a significant expense at the dealership. It also keeps you from getting stuck without a working key.
Modern keys contain transponders which must be programmed in order 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 do I need?
There are several different kinds of keys. The most basic type of key is the traditional key. It does not have any encoding, and it is just a piece of metal that fits inside a lock. These keys are commonly used in older vehicles.
A double-sided or four-sided key is more secure and is easily identified by having two or four sets of teeth on opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to find and could aid in preventing burglaries because they require more strength to open the lock.
Transponder keys are another type of key. They contain an embedded microchip which is programmed to begin your car. This type of key is less likely to be stolen because the key is only compatible with that specific vehicle. Transponder keys are a little more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, but they provide additional security.
If you require replacement of keys and you need to replace a key, the AutoZone store nearest you will typically have the necessary parts and know-how. You just need to provide them with the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they can 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 special tools and software. Although many prefer to call their dealer for this service but it's not always required. You can also look online for replacement keys/fobs that are available at a lower cost than you would purchase from a dealer. But, before you start looking, it's important to note that these keyfobs can be hacked so be sure to go with a trusted source.
Where can I get a key cut for me?
The majority of auto locksmiths can cut standard keys for cars. They will need to know the year and make of your vehicle to provide you with the correct key blank, which they cut using precise machinery on site. However, some modern car keys, such as fobs, contain transponder chips built-in that require special programming specific to the vehicle. Home Depot and similar stores might be able to copy these keys, but they don't have the equipment needed to duplicate the chip or program it.
A typical process for duplicating keys for a traditional car key involves a person choosing the appropriate key blank and putting it on the key you have already used as a template. The original contours of the key are traced by a machine to create duplicates. It is best to bring along your original key if it has a few tiny scratches since these will be incorporated into the new key.
Mister Minit stores are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate keys for most cars. It is helpful to have the year, make and model of your vehicle together with the key or remote fob so that we can choose the correct blank for your replacement key. Many stores can assist by programming the new key to your vehicle if it's a push button start model.
What equipment will I require?
Modern key blades require precise tools to guarantee the best cut that is required by modern ignitions. Cutting a new car key is much more complex than simply copying an existing one and requires specialised equipment that can be only available from authorized locksmiths, key cutters or hardware stores equipped with the right tools to handle the task.
The majority of automobiles sold in Australia come with a transponder chip integrated into the key fob. This chip needs to be programmed to your vehicle prior to it being able to be used. This is a security measure that was first introduced in the 1990's to combat increasing car theft in Australia and has since become the standard for all new vehicles that are sold today.
This can be a time-consuming and expensive procedure that is time-consuming and costly. A replacement or spare key has to be laser cut, and then programmed for your specific vehicle. Fortunately, most Mister Minit locations have the specialist equipment and expertise to handle this for you and all you need is your current working key that you want duplicated and, if you can the year, year of manufacture and model of your car so that we can determine the right code to program your new key.
If you own a newer car, it could be worthwhile to have a spare key cut to your car with a push button start feature with the key fob (which can be programmed to the car independently). The majority of Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a replacement or spare key. You will need your car key, and if possible the year the make and model of both keys, so we can determine which key is a transponder and program it to your vehicle.
Can I cut my own keys?
Many big-box stores and hardware stores offer key cutting services for a nominal cost. They make use of a machine that tracks the original contours of your existing key to produce an exact replica. car key cutting works for older keys with no chip. Modern cars require that the key fob be programmed. This is a complicated task and requires special equipment and knowledge. This kind of job is best for 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 don't cut every kind of key. Some common keys can be copied, but other keys with special features must be mailed to be processed. It is not recommended to duplicate a key that has the words "Do Not Duplicate". If this is the case, you'll have to contact a locksmith assistance.
A locksmith is more convenient when visiting your home or work. They can cut a key and change the fob's settings if needed. This will avoid the inconvenience of having to drive to a shop and wait in the line.
Dealerships are experts on cars however they don't know anything about keys. They have their own mechanics and experts in interior technology but cutting keys is not their field of expertise. Dealerships are big corporations that adhere to strict guidelines to maximize their profits. They report to car companies, which report to shareholders and investors who expect to earn money every quarter. These circumstances are not conducive to good customer service when cutting car key s.
Where can I have a locksmith cut a key for me?
You can get keys cut at hardware stores or self-service key copy kiosks however the best place to go is a locksmith firm. They are licensed, skilled and have the tools to duplicate the majority of keys. In addition, they can help you program a new car key fob or transponder chip.
The original key is used as a model to cut the majority of standard keys. A blank key is placed on the other side, and both keys are moved across the machine's specialized cutter and create a copy of the original key. Certain types of keys like car keys and fobs require a longer process because they need to be programmed to your vehicle.
Some keys are marked "do duplicate" to prevent unauthorized copies. car key cutting is a measure to protect. It doesn't mean that the key can't be copied however, it could take longer as a locksmith will have to inspect the key to ensure it's not damaged.
Certain keys are restricted and require proof of ownership to copy or cut them. This is usually due to the fact that they have distinctive mechanical features or are a strange shape and is done to prevent them from being used to steal objects or get into secure locations.
For these special keys, you will need to speak with the local locksmith or go to their website to check whether they have the tools and knowledge to cut them. If they do, expect to pay a little more than getting a basic key cut at a hardware store or at a self-service kiosk, but it's cheaper and less stress-inducing than having to replace a lost car key.