Test: How Much Do You Know About Car Keys Cut

Where to Get Car Keys Cut

Cutting Car Key your car keys is an essential service that could help you avoid a large cost at the dealership. This can also protect you from being stranded when your keys break.

Modern keys include transponders that need to be programmed to work with the vehicle. Luckily, your local AutoZone has the equipment to create these key replacements for less than the cost.

What kind of key do I need?

There are many kinds of keys. The most basic type of key is the traditional key. It does not include any encryption, and is just a piece metal that fits inside locks. They are commonly used on older vehicles.

Double-sided or 4-sided keys are more secure and can be identified by having four or two sets on opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to locate and can assist in preventing break-ins since they require more strength to open the lock.

Another type of key is a transponder key that is equipped with an embedded microchip that is programmed to start the car. This reduces the risk of theft since the key is only compatible with that specific vehicle. Transponder keys are a little more expensive than mechanical or traditional keys, but they do provide extra security.

The majority of the time, when you require a replacement key you can find your local AutoZone store will have the right parts and know-how to replace it quickly. You just need to give them the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they can take care of it for you.

Some modern vehicles have a remote fob that must be programmed with the car's computer with specialized tools and software. Many people ask their dealer for this service, but it's not always necessary. You can also search the internet for aftermarket replacement keys/fobs available at much lower prices than you would purchase from a dealer. However, before you start looking it is important to remember that these keyfobs can be hacked so be sure to go with a trusted source.

Where can I get a key cut for me?

Most auto locksmiths are able cut standard keys for cars. They'll need the year, make and Cutting Car Key model of your vehicle to provide you with the correct key blank, which they cut using precise machinery on site. However, some modern automobile keys like fobs also have built-in transponder chips which require specialized programming for the specific vehicle. Home Depot and similar stores may be able copy these keys, but they won't have the equipment needed to clone the chip or program it.

The most common method of duplication for an auto key of the traditional type involves an associate choosing the correct blank key and positioning it next to your existing key to serve as an example. The key's original contours are traced by a machine in order to create duplicates. It's best to bring your original key in the event that it has a few small scratches since they will be used to create the new key.

Mister Minit stores are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate keys on most automobiles. It is essential to know the year and model of your vehicle, along with your key or remote to ensure that we select the appropriate blank for your replacement. Many stores can also help with the process of programming the new key for your vehicle, if it's a push button start model.

What equipment will I require?

Modern key blades require precision tooling to ensure the highest quality cut required by modern ignitions. The process of cutting a new car key is much more complicated than simply copying an existing key and requires specialised equipment that is only available from authorized locksmiths, key cutters or hardware stores that have the right tools for the job.

The key fobs on the majority of cars sold in Australia are equipped with a transponder, which is programmed to your vehicle. This security feature was introduced in the early 1990s to tackle the increasing rate of theft from cars in Australia. It is now standard on all new cars that are sold in the present.

This means that a spare or replacement key will have to be laser cut and then programmed for your specific vehicle which is a lengthy and costly process. Fortunately most Mister Minit locations have the expert equipment and experience to handle this for you. All you need is the current working key you wish to have duplicated, and if it is possible the year, year of manufacture and model of your vehicle to help us identify the correct code to program your new key.

It could be worthwhile to get a spare key made for your car that has a push button start. This key will include the key fob which can be programmed separately to the car. Most Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a spare or replacement key. You will need your car key, and if possible the year the make and model of the keys, so that we can determine which key is a transponder and program it to your vehicle.

Can I cut my own key?

Many big-box retailers and stores offer a key cutting service for a small cost. They employ a machine to track the contours of the original key to create an exact replica. This method works for older keys that do not contain chips. Modern automobiles require that a key fob be programmed. This is a complicated job that requires specialized equipment and expertise. This kind of job is best to locksmiths, who have access to the tools and equipment needed.

You can also visit the kiosk that cuts keys, such as the one operated by KeyMe. These are convenient, but they cannot cut all types of keys. Certain keys that are common can be copied. Other keys with specializations must be mailed to be processed. Be sure you're not trying to create a duplicate of a key that has "Do Not Duplicate" on it. You'll need to contact a professional locksmith if this is the situation.

A locksmith can also offer a more convenient option by arriving at your office or home. They can cut keys quickly and reprogram your fob should it be required. It is not necessary to travel to the store and stand in an interminable line.

Dealerships are experts on cars but they don't know everything about keys. They have their own experts in interior technology and mechanics but cutting keys is not their area of expertise. Dealerships are big corporations that have strict rules in order to maximize their profits. They are accountable to car companies, who submit quarterly reports to investors and shareholders. These conditions do not lend themselves to providing good customer service when cutting car keys.

Where can I have a locksmith cut me a key?

You can cut keys at hardware stores or self-service kiosks to copy keys However, the best option is a locksmith company. They are licensed, experienced and have the equipment necessary to duplicate the majority of keys. They can also help you program your new car key fob or transponder chip.

The majority of keys are cut using a specific key duplicator machine, using the original key being used as a template. The blank key is placed on the other side and both keys are moved simultaneously through the machine's specially-designed cutting car key blade, which creates an exact copy of the original. For certain types of keys such as car keys or key fobs, the process takes longer because they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.

Certain keys bear some keys have a "do not duplicate" mark on them, but this is just an extra measure to protect against unauthorised copying. This doesn't mean that the key cannot be copied. However, it may take longer since locksmiths must inspect the key to make sure that it's not altered.

Other keys could be restricted, and require proof of ownership before they are cut or copied. This is usually due to the fact that they have unique mechanical features or are a strange shape and is done to ensure that they are not used to steal objects or get into secured locations.

You'll need to call an area locksmith to find out whether they are able to cut these special keys. You can also visit their website to check whether the locksmith is equipped with the required equipment and know-how. If they do cut them, you'll pay a bit more than if you were to get a basic key made at the hardware store or self-service kiosk. However, it's cheaper and less stressful to replace the key that has been lost.