Where to Get Car Keys Cut
It is essential to have your car keys cut. This will save you a significant amount of money at the dealership. It also stops you from being stuck without a functioning key.
Modern keys have transponders that require programming to work with the vehicle. Your local AutoZone can replace these keys at the lowest cost.
What kind of key will I need?
There are several different types of keys. The most basic type of key is the standard key. It does not include any encoding, and it is just a piece metal that fits inside the lock. These keys are most commonly found on older vehicles.
A four-sided or double-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 pick and can assist in preventing break-ins since they require additional strength to open the lock.
Another kind of key is a transponder key that is equipped with 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 more expensive than mechanical or traditional keys, but they do provide extra security.
The majority of the time, if you need a replacement key, 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 will take care of it for you.
Certain modern vehicles have a remote fob that must be programmed using the vehicle's computer to work, which requires specialized tools and software. Many people call their dealer for this service but it's not always required. You can also search the internet for aftermarket replacement keys/fobs available at a lower cost than you would spend at a dealership. Before you buy take a look, make sure you are aware that these keys are hackable, so be sure you get a trusted source.
Where can I have a key cut for me?
Most auto locksmiths are able cut standard car keys. They'll need the year and make of your vehicle to give you a suitable key blank and cut it with high-quality machinery on site. Certain modern car keys, such as fobs, also have transponder chips that require special programming. Home Depot and similar stores may be able to copy these keys, but they won't have the tools needed to clone the chip or program it.
A typical process for duplicating keys for a car key of the traditional type is a partner selecting the correct key blank and positioning it against your current key to serve as an outline. A machine then trace the initial contours of your key to create the duplicate. It is best to bring along your original key in the event that it has a few small scratches as they will be used to create the new key.
Mister Minit stores are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate keys on most automobiles. It is crucial to provide the year and make of your vehicle together with your key or remote so that we can choose the correct blank for your replacement. Many stores will also assist by programming the new key to your vehicle, if it's an auto start model with a push button.
What equipment will I need?
Modern key blades require specialised precise tools to guarantee the perfect cut required by modern ignitions. Cutting a new car key is much more complex than simply copying an existing key and requires specialised equipment that can be only found at authorised locksmiths, key cutters or hardware stores equipped with the right tools to handle the job.
The key fobs on the majority of cars sold in Australia come with a transponder, which is programmed to your vehicle. This security feature was introduced in the early 1990s to tackle the increasing incidence of car theft in Australia. It has since become standard for all new vehicles sold today.
It can be a lengthy and costly process that can be costly and time-consuming. A spare or replacement key needs to be laser cut, and then programmed for your particular vehicle. Fortunately most Mister Minit locations have the specialist equipment and expertise to complete this task for you and all you need is your current working key you want duplicated and, if you can, the year, make and model of your vehicle to help us identify the correct code to program your new key.
If you own a newer car, it may also be worthwhile to have an extra key cut for your car with a push button start feature with an electronic key fob (which can be programmed to the vehicle independently). Most Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a spare or replacement key. You'll need your vehicle key, and if you can, the year and make of both keys, so that we can identify which key contains transponder and then program it to your vehicle.
Can I cut my own key?
Many hardware stores and big box retailers provide a key-cutting service for a fee. They make use of machines to follow the contours of the original key to create an exact replica. This method is suitable for older keys that do not have a chip. Modern cars, however, require keys to be programmed, which is not an easy task and requires specialized equipment and knowledge. Locksmiths are more equipped to handle this kind of job because they have the right equipment and tools.
You can also go to the kiosk that cuts keys, like the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, but do not cut every kind of key. Keys that are common can be copied, whereas other keys with special features must be mailed to be processed. Be sure you're not attempting to make a copy of a key that has "Do Not Duplicate" on it. You'll need to contact an expert locksmith if this is the situation.
A locksmith can also offer a more convenient option by coming directly to your home or office. They can quickly cut a key and even reprogram your fob if necessary. This will avoid the headache of having to travel to a shop and wait in the line.
Dealerships are experts in cars, but not necessarily in keys. They have their own mechanics and interior technology experts but cutting keys is not their area of expertise. Dealerships are big corporations which operate with strict guidelines to protect their bottom line. They report to car companies who in turn, report to investors and shareholders that expect monetary gains every quarter. These conditions do not lend themselves to good customer service when cutting car keys.
Where can I get a key cut by locksmiths?
Locksmith firms are the best option. You can also have keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are certified, knowledgeable and have the tools to duplicate most types. They can also help you program your new car key fob, or transponder chip.
The majority of standard keys are cut using a special key duplicator, with the original key serving as a template. The blank key is placed on the opposite side, and both keys are simultaneously moved through the machine's specialized cutting blade, creating an exact copy of the original. For certain kinds of keys such as car keys or key fobs, the process can take longer since they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
Recommended Studying are marked "do duplicate" to protect against copies made by unauthorized copyists. This is a measure to protect. It doesn't mean that the key can't be copied. However, it will take longer since locksmiths must inspect the key to make sure that it's not damaged.
Certain keys are limited and require proof of ownership in order to cut or copy them. This is typically because they have unique mechanical characteristics or are a strange shape and is intended to prevent them from being used to steal items or get into secure locations.
You will need to contact a local locksmith to find out if they can cut these special keys. You can also go to their website to check whether the locksmith is equipped with the required equipment and know-how. If they can, you will be charged a little more than the cost of a basic key made at an hardware store or self-service kiosk. However, it is easier and less expensive to replace keys that have been lost.