Where to Get Car Keys Cut
It is essential to have your car keys cut. This can save you a lot of money at the dealership. This can also protect you from being stuck in the event that your key is damaged.
Modern keys have transponders that require programming to work with the vehicle. Luckily the local AutoZone has the tools to create these key replacements for a fraction of the price.
What kind of key do I require?
There are several different kinds of keys. The most basic is the traditional key, which isn't encoded or programming, and is merely cut metal that fits the lock. Keys like these are typically used in older cars.
Double-sided or 4-sided keys are more secure and can be identified as having two or four sets on opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to pick and can help prevent break-ins as they require more strength to open the locks.
Transponder keys are a different kind of key. They have an embedded microchip which is programmed to begin your vehicle. This technology can help reduce theft since keys can only be used on the vehicle in question. Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, but they provide extra security.
The majority times, when you require a new key you can find your local AutoZone store has the necessary parts and knowledge to do it immediately. You just need to give them the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they can handle it for you.
Certain modern vehicles have a remote control that must be programmed into the vehicle's computer in order to work. This requires special software and tools. Many people ask their dealer for this service, but it is not always necessary. You can also search on the internet for replacement keys or fobs at a much lower cost than what you'd pay at a dealership. But before you make this purchase, it's important to note that these keyfobs can be hacked so be sure to use a trusted source.
Where can I get a key cut for me?
The majority of auto locksmiths are able to cut standard car keys. To supply you with the right key blank they must know the year, make, and model. key car cutting will cut the key on-site using a precise machine. However, some modern automobile keys, such as fobs, have built-in transponder chips which require special programming for the particular vehicle. Home Depot and similar stores might be able to copy these keys, but they will not have the equipment required to duplicate the chip or program it.
A typical key duplication process for a traditional car key is a partner selecting the correct key blank and positioning it against your existing key to act as an outline. The machine then follows the initial contours of your key to make the 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 specific equipment required to duplicate the key of all cars. It is crucial to provide the year and model of your vehicle along with your remote or key to ensure that we select the appropriate blank for your replacement. Many stores will also assist with the additional step of programming the new key into your vehicle, if it's an auto start model with a push button.
What equipment do I need?
Modern key blades require precise tools to guarantee the highest quality cut required by modern ignitions. Cutting the new car key is more complicated than simply copying an existing one and requires special equipment that is only available at authorized locksmiths, key cutters or hardware stores equipped with the right tools to handle the task.
Most cars sold in Australia come with a transponder chips that is integrated into the key fob. This chip needs to be programmed to your vehicle prior to it being able to be used. key cutting car is a security feature that started in the 1990's to combat 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 will need to be laser cut before being programmed to the specific car you own, which can be a costly and time-consuming procedure. Fortunately, most Mister Minit locations have the specialist equipment and expertise to complete this task for you. All you need is the current working key you want duplicated, and if it is possible the year, year of manufacture and model of your vehicle so that we can determine the right code to program your new key.
It could be worthwhile to get a spare key made for your car with a push-button start. This key will have an electronic key fob that can be programmed separately to the car. The majority of Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a spare or replacement key. All you need is your car keys and, if you can the year, makes and models of both keys so we can determine which key has a transponder chip, and be able to program it correctly to your vehicle.
Can I get a key cut on my own?
Many hardware stores and big box retailers offer cutting keys for a cost. They employ a machine that tracks the original contours of your key to produce an exact duplicate. This method works for older keys that do not have chips. Modern cars require that a key fob be programmed. This is a complicated task and requires special equipment and expertise. Locksmiths are more equipped to handle this type of work, since they are equipped with the required equipment and tools.
key cut service may also visit a key-cutting kiosk like one operated by KeyMe. These are convenient, but they cannot cut all kinds of keys. Some common keys can easily be copied. Other keys with specializations must be sent to be processed. You should not try 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 may also provide an easier option by arriving at your office or home. They can quickly cut a key and change the fob's settings if needed. This will eliminate the headache of having to travel to a shop and wait in line.
Dealerships are experts in automobiles however, they are not necessarily experts in keys. They have their own mechanics and experts in interior technology but cutting keys is not their expertise. Dealerships are big corporations which operate with strict guidelines to support their bottom line. They report to car companies that, in turn, provide quarterly reports to investors and shareholders. These circumstances are not conducive to a good customer experience when cutting keys to cars.
Where can I have a locksmith cut me a key?
Locksmith services are the best option. You can also purchase keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are licensed and experienced, and have the necessary equipment to duplicate the majority of keys. Additionally, they can assist you in programming a new car key fob or transponder chip.
Most standard keys are cut by a key duplicator machine, with the original key serving as a template. The blank key is positioned on the other side and both keys are pushed through the machine's cutting blade, resulting in an exact duplicate of the original. For certain kinds of keys, like car keys and key fobs, the process takes longer because they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
Some keys are marked "do duplicate" to stop copies that are not authorized. This is a security measure. It doesn't mean that the key cannot be copied however, it could take more time because locksmiths will need to inspect the key and ensure that it's not altered.
Certain keys are restricted and require proof of ownership to copy or cut them. This is usually because they have unique mechanical features or have a peculiar shape and is intended to ensure that they are not used to steal items or get into secure areas.
For these special keys, you'll have to contact a local locksmith or visit their website to check whether they have the tools and knowledge to cut keys for them. If they do make them, you'll have to be charged a little more than if you were to get a basic key made at the hardware store or self-service kiosk. But, it's easier and less expensive to replace keys that have been lost.