Car Keys Cut s History History Of Car Keys Cut

Where to Get Car Keys Cut

Cutting your car keys is an essential service that can save you from a significant cost at the dealership. It also prevents you from being stuck without a working key.

Modern keys contain transponders which must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle. Your local AutoZone is equipped to replace these keys at the lowest cost.

What kind of key do I need?

There are many kinds of keys. The most basic is a traditional key. It does not contain any encoding or programming and is simply cut-off metal that fits into a lock. Keys of this type are often used in older cars.

A double-sided or four-sided key is more secure 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 prevent break-ins because they require extra strength to open the lock.

Transponder keys are a second type of key. They are equipped with a microchip programmed to start your car. This technology helps reduce theft because keys is only compatible with that particular vehicle. Transponder keys are a little more expensive than mechanical or traditional keys, however they provide additional security.

When you need to replace a key and you need to replace a key, the AutoZone store closest to you will usually have the necessary parts and know-how. Just provide them with the year, MAKE, and MODEL and they will take charge of the rest.

Some modern vehicles come with remote controls that have to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle in order to work. This requires specialized tools and software. Many people call their dealer for this service, but it's not always required. You can also look online for aftermarket replacement keys/fobs available at much lower prices than you'd pay at a dealer. However, before you do this be aware that these keyfobs are susceptible to being compromised, so make sure you go with a trusted source.

Where can I have a key cut for me?

Most auto locksmiths are able to cut standard keys for cars. They'll need to know the year and make of your vehicle to provide you with the correct key blank and cut it with precision machinery on-site. Some modern keys for cars, like fobs, have transponder chips that require specialized programming. It is possible to have these types of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores however they do not have the equipment needed to duplicate or program the chip.

A typical key duplication process for a standard car key involves an associate selecting the correct key blank and putting it on your existing key to act as an outline. The key's original contours are mapped by a machine to make a duplicate. Bring your original key in case it has small scratches. These will be added to your new key.

Mister Minit stores have the specialist equipment required to duplicate the key of all automobiles. It is helpful to have the year model, make and year of your car in hand together with the remote fob or key so that we can choose the appropriate blank for your replacement key. Many stores will also program the new key if the vehicle is an auto-start model with a push button.

What equipment do I need?

Modern ignitions require specialized tools to ensure a flawless cut. The process of cutting the new car key is much more complex than simply copying an existing key and requires specialised equipment that is only available at authorized key cutters, locksmiths or hardware stores equipped with the right tools for the task.

The key fobs of most vehicles sold in Australia come with a transponder which is programmed to your vehicle. This is a security measure that started in the 1990's to stop rising car key cutter near me theft around Australia and has since become the norm for all new cars currently sold.

This means that a spare or replacement key needs to be laser cut and then programmed to your specific car which is a costly and time-consuming process. The majority of Mister Minit locations are equipped with the required equipment and expertise to duplicate the key you have. All you have to do is bring your current key and, if you can provide the year, model and make of your vehicle, so that we can determine the right code for programming your new key.

If you have a brand newer car, it may also be worthwhile to have an extra key cut for your car's push button start that includes the key fob (which can be programmed to the car separately). Finding a replacement or spare key cut and programmed is a fast and easy process at the majority of Mister Minit stores. All you have to bring is your car keys and, if possible, the year, cutter makes and models of both keys so that we can determine which key has a transponder chip and be able to program it correctly to your car key cuts.

Can I cut a key by myself?

Many hardware stores and big box retailers provide a key-cutting service for a fee. They use a machine that tracks the original contours of the key to make an exact copy. This works for older keys without a chip in them. Modern vehicles, however, require the key fob to be programmed, which isn't an easy job and requires specific equipment and knowledge. This type of work is better suited for locksmiths, who have access to the tools and equipment required.

You may also visit an automated key cutting kiosk like one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient but do not cut every kind of key. Some common keys can be copied, while other keys that are special need to 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 need contact a locksmith for help.

A locksmith may also provide a more convenient option by visiting your home or office. They can cut a key and even reprogram your fob if necessary. This will eliminate the inconvenience of having to drive to a store and stand in line.

Dealerships are experts in cars, but not necessarily in keys. They have their own mechanics and experts in interior technology however, key cutting is not their field of expertise. Dealerships are large corporations which operate with strict policies to serve their bottom line. They report to car companies that submit quarterly reports to investors and shareholders. This is not a good way to provide excellent customer service, particularly when it comes time to cut the car keys.

Where can I have a locksmith cut a key for me?

You can get keys cut at hardware stores and self-service key copy kiosks, but the best place to go is a locksmith business. They are licensed and experienced, and have the equipment to duplicate all kinds of keys. They can also assist you to program your new car key fob, or transponder chip.

The majority of standard keys are cut using a special key duplicator machine, using the original key acting as the template. A blank key is put on the opposite side, and both keys move simultaneously across the machine's specialized cutter, creating a copy of the original key. For certain types of keys such as car keys and key fobs, the process takes longer because they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.

Certain keys are marked "do duplicate" to prevent unauthorized copies. This is a security measure. It doesn't mean that the key isn't readable however it could take longer because locksmiths will need to look over the key to ensure it's not damaged.

Other keys could be restricted, and require proof of ownership before they can be cut or copied. This is typically because they have unique mechanical characteristics or have a peculiar shape, and is done to ensure that they are not used to steal items or gain access into secure locations.

For these special keys, you'll have to talk to an experienced locksmith in your area or go to their website to see if they have the equipment and know-how to cut them. If they do cut them, you'll pay a bit more if you were to get a standard key from the hardware store or self-service kiosk. However, it's cheaper and less stressful to replace the key that has been lost.