Car Keys Cut: The Secret Life Of Car Keys Cut

Where to Get Car Keys Cut

Cutting your car keys is a critical service that can help you avoid a large expense at the dealership. It will also prevent you from being stranded when your keys break.

Modern keys contain transponders which must be programmed to work with the vehicle. Luckily, your local AutoZone has the tools to make these key replacements for less than the cost.

What kind of key will I need?

There are many kinds of keys. The most basic key is the traditional key. It does not have any encoding, and it is merely a piece of metal that fits into the lock. Keys of this type are often used in older vehicles.

A double-sided or four-sided key is a safer option and can be identified by having two or four sets of teeth on opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to pick and can help stop burglaries since they require more strength to open the locks.

Another kind of key is a transponder that is equipped with a microchip which is programmed to allow the car to start. This technology helps reduce theft because the key can only be used on that particular vehicle. Transponder keys are a little more expensive than mechanical or traditional keys, but they provide additional security.

The majority times, when you need a replacement key the local AutoZone store will have the right parts and knowledge to do it quickly. Simply provide them with the year of your vehicle, MAKE, and MODEL and they'll take charge of the rest.

Certain modern vehicles have remote fobs that have to be programmed by the vehicle's computer to work, which requires specialized tools and software. Although many prefer to call their dealer for assistance, it's not always necessary. You can also look online for replacement keys and fobs from the aftermarket at a lower cost than you would spend at a dealership. However, before you start looking it is important to remember that these keyfobs could be compromised, so make sure you use a trusted source.

Where can I get a key cut?

The majority of auto locksmiths are able to cut standard car keys. To provide you with the right key blank they'll need to know the year and make, as well as the model. They will then cut it on the spot using a precise machine. Certain modern keys for cars, like fobs, have transponder chips that require specific programming. You may be able to get these types of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores but they won't have the tools to reprogram or clone the chip.

The most common method of duplication for a standard auto key involves a person selecting the correct blank key, cutting car keys and positioning it next to your existing key as an example. A machine then trace the original contours of the key to create the duplicate. Bring your original key if it has small scratches. These will be incorporated into the new key.

Mister Minit stores are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate keys for a variety of automobiles. It is helpful to have the year the make and model of your car in hand together with your key or remote fob so that we can accurately choose the appropriate blank for your replacement key. Many stores can also program the new key if the vehicle is one with a push-button start feature.

What equipment do I require?

Modern key blades require precision tooling to ensure the perfect cut required by modern ignitions. Cutting a new key for cars is more difficult than replicating one already in use. It requires specialized equipment which can only be found in key cutters with the correct tools.

Most automobiles sold in Australia have a transponder chip that is integrated into the key fob that needs to be programmed to your vehicle prior to it being able to be used. This security feature was introduced in the 1990s to counter the rising rate of car theft in Australia. It has since become standard for all new cars sold in the present.

This means a spare or replacement key will have to be cut using lasers and programmed for your specific vehicle which is a costly and time-consuming process. The majority of Mister Minit locations are equipped with the necessary tools and experience to duplicate the key you have. All you have to bring is your existing key and, if you have it, the year, model and make of your vehicle so we can determine the right code for programming your new key.

If you have a brand newer vehicle, it might be beneficial to have a spare key cut for your push button start car that comes with a key fob (which can be programmed for the vehicle independently). Finding a spare or replacement key cut car key and programmed is a fast and easy process at the majority of Mister Minit stores. All you need to bring is your car key and, if it is possible the year, make and models of both keys, so that we can determine the key that is equipped with a transponder chip and get it correctly programmed to your vehicle.

Can I cut a key by myself?

Many big-box stores and hardware stores offer a key cutting service for a small cost. They use a machine to track the contours of the original key to create an exact replica. This method works for older keys that do not include a chip. Modern automobiles require that the key fob be programmed. This is a difficult task and requires special 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 the kiosk that cuts keys, like the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, but they do not cut every kind of key. Some common keys can be copied, but other keys with special features must be sent in for processing. Be sure you're not trying to make a copy of a key with "Do Not Duplicate" on it. You'll need to contact an expert locksmith if this is the situation.

A locksmith can also provide the convenience of arriving at your office or home. They can quickly cut a key and even modify your fob, if required. It is not necessary to travel to the store and stand in an interminable line.

Dealerships are experts on cars however they don't know everything 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 large corporations that operate under strict policies to maximize their profits. They report to car companies, who in turn, report to shareholders and investors that expect monetary gains every quarter. These conditions do not lend themselves to a good customer experience when it comes to cutting car keys.

Where can I get a key cut by locksmiths?

You can get keys cut at hardware stores and self-service kiosks to copy keys However, the best place to go is a locksmith business. They are licensed, skilled and have the tools to duplicate all types of keys. In addition, they are able to assist you in programming a brand new car key fob or transponder chip.

The majority of keys are cut using a specific key duplicator, with the original key acting as the template. A blank key is placed on the opposite side and both keys are moved across the cutter's specialized cutting machine, creating a copy of the original key. Certain key types, like car keys and fobs require an extended process since they must be programmed for your vehicle.

Some keys have a "do not duplicate" mark on them, but this is merely a security measure to prevent unauthorized copying. This doesn't mean that the key can't be copied. However, it could take longer since locksmiths have to examine the key to make sure it is not tampered.

Other keys could be restricted, Cutting car keys and require proof of ownership before they can be copied or cut. This is usually because they have unique mechanical features or have a peculiar shape and is done to ensure that they are not used to steal items or get into secure areas.

For these keys, you will have to talk to the local locksmith or go to their website to see if they have the equipment and know-how to cut them. If they do, you should expect to pay a bit more than getting a basic key cut at an hardware store or self-service kiosks, but it will be less expensive and less stressful than having to replace a lost car key.