Where to Get Car Keys Cut
Getting your car keys cut is a crucial service that could help you avoid a large expense at the dealership. This will also keep you from being left stranded if your key breaks.
Modern keys come with transponders that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Your local AutoZone is equipped to replace these keys for a fractional price.
What kind of key do I need?
There are a variety of different kinds of keys. The most basic type of key is the standard key. It doesn't have any encoding, and it is merely a piece of metal that fits inside locks. Keys like these are typically used on older vehicles.
Keys with a 4-sided or double-sided design are more secure and are identified as having four or two sets on opposite sides of blade. These keys are difficult to pick, and they can be used to prevent break-ins as they require more strength to open locks.
Another type of key is a transponder that has a microchip which is programmed to turn on the car. This technology reduces theft because the key can only be used with a particular vehicle. Transponder keys are a little more expensive than mechanical or traditional keys, but they do provide additional security.
Most times, when you need a replacement key, your local AutoZone store will have the parts and the knowledge to complete it quickly. Just give them your vehicle's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL and they will take care of the rest.
Certain modern vehicles have a remote control that must be programmed into the car's computer to function. This requires special tools and software. Many people call their dealer for this service, but it is not always necessary. You can also look 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 purchase, be aware that these keyfobs can be hacked, so make sure you get a trusted source.
Where can I get a key cut for me?
Most auto locksmiths can cut standard car keys. To provide you with the right blank for your key they'll need to know the year of your car and make, along with the model. They will then cut it on site with precision equipment. However, some modern car keys like fobs also come with transponder chips that require specialized programming for the specific vehicle. Home Depot and similar stores might be able to copy these keys, but they won't have the equipment required to copy the chip or program it.
A typical process for duplicating keys for a traditional car key involves a person selecting the correct key blank and then putting it in place against the key you have already used as an example. laser key cutting of the key are traced by a machine in order to create a duplicate. Bring in your original key if it has small scratches. These will be added to your new key.
Mister Minit stores have the specific equipment required to duplicate most automobiles. It is essential to know the year and model of your vehicle together with your remote or key to ensure that we select the appropriate blank for your replacement. Many stores can also help with the process of programming the new key into your vehicle if it's a push button start model.
What equipment do I need?
Modern key blades require precise tools to guarantee the highest quality cut required by modern ignitions. Making a new key to a car is more complex than copying one that already exists. It requires special equipment that is only available in key cutters that have the right tools.
The key fobs on the majority of vehicles sold in Australia are equipped with a transponder, which is programmed to your vehicle. This is a security measure that started in the 1990's to combat the rising theft of cars in Australia and has since become the norm for all new cars currently sold.
This can be a time-consuming and expensive process that can be costly and time-consuming. A replacement or spare key needs to be laser cut and then programmed for your particular car. Fortunately, the majority of 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, make and model of your vehicle to help us identify the right code to program your new key.
It might be worthwhile getting an extra key designed for your car that has a push button start. This key will have an electronic key fob that can be programmed separately to the car. Most Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a replacement or spare key. All you need to bring is your car keys and, if you can the year, make and models of both keys, so that we can determine which key has a transponder chip and have it properly programmed to your car.
Can I get a key cut by myself?
Many big-box retailers and hardware stores offer key cutting services for a small cost. They employ an instrument that follows the original contours of the key to produce an exact replica. This works for older keys that do not have a chip. Modern cars, however, require a key fob to be programmed, which is not an easy task, and requires specialized equipment and expertise. This type of job is best to locksmiths, who have access to the tools and equipment needed.
You can also go to a kiosk for cutting keys, such as one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, however they cannot cut all types of keys. Certain keys that are common can be copied. Other keys that are special have to be sent to be processed. You should not try to copy a key with the words "Do Not Duplicate". If this is the case, you'll have to contact a locksmith help.
A locksmith is more convenient when visiting your home or workplace. They can cut a key quickly and reprogram your fob, if needed. This will eliminate the headache of having to travel to a shop and wait in the line.
Dealerships are experts on cars, but they don't necessarily know anything about keys. They have their own experts in interior technology and mechanics, but the key-cutting process is not their area of expertise. Dealerships are big corporations that operate according to strict guidelines to support their bottom lines. They report to car companies who report quarterly to investors and shareholders. This does not help in providing good customer service, especially when it comes time to cut car keys.
Where can I have a locksmith cut a key for me?
Locksmith firms are the best option. You can also get keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are licensed and experienced and have the equipment to duplicate the majority of keys. In addition, they are able to assist you in programming a brand new car key fob or transponder chip.
The original key is used as a template to cut most standard keys. The blank key is positioned on the other side and both keys are pushed through the machine's cutting blade, resulting in a duplicate of the original. For certain types of keys, like car keys and 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 measure to protect. It doesn't mean that keys cannot be copied. However, it will take longer since locksmiths must inspect the key to make sure it is not tampered.
Some keys are restricted and require proof of ownership to copy or cut them. This is usually due to the fact that they have unique mechanical features or are a strange shape, and is done to prevent them from being used to steal items or gain access into secured locations.
You'll need to contact an area locksmith to find out whether they are able cut these keys. You can also visit their website to determine whether the locksmith has the equipment and experience required. If they do, you should expect to pay a bit more than a standard key cut at the hardware store or a self-service kiosk, but it will be less expensive and less stress-inducing than having to replace a lost car key.