Where to Get Car Keys Cut
It is important to have your car keys cut. This can save you a significant amount of cash at the dealer. It will also prevent you from being left stranded in the event that your key is damaged.
Modern keys feature transponders that have to be programmed to be compatible with your specific vehicle. Luckily the local AutoZone has the equipment to produce these key replacements for less than the cost.
What kind of key do I need?
There are several different types of keys. The most basic is a traditional key, which does not contain any encoding or programming, and is merely cut out of metal and fits inside to a lock. They are commonly used on older vehicles.
Keys with a 4-sided or double-sided design are more secure and can be identified by having two or four sets on opposite sides of blade. These keys are more difficult to pick and can assist in preventing break-ins since they require additional strength to open the lock.
Transponder keys are a different kind of key. They contain an embedded microchip that is programmed to start your car. This type of key is less likely to be stolen because the key is only compatible with that specific vehicle. Transponder keys can be a bit more expensive than mechanical keys or traditional keys but they offer increased security.
Most of the time, when you require a replacement key the local key cutting AutoZone store has the necessary parts and know-how to replace it right away. All you have to do is provide them with the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they can take care of it for you.
Certain modern vehicles come with remote fobs that have to be programmed by the vehicle's computer with specialized tools and software. Although many prefer to contact their dealership for assistance, it's not always necessary. You can also look online for after market replacement keys and fobs that are readily available for much less than you'd find at a dealership. But, before you start looking, it's important to note that these keyfobs are susceptible to being hacked so be sure to choose a reliable source.
Where can I get the key cut?
Most auto locksmiths are able to cut standard car keys. To give you the right blank for your key they'll need to know the year and make, along with the model. They can then cut it on site using precision machinery. However, some modern car keys, like fobs, also have built-in transponder chips which require specialized programming for the specific vehicle. You might be able to purchase these kinds of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores but they will not have the tools to reprogram or clone the chip.
The standard procedure for duplicating keys for a standard auto key is a user choosing the correct blank key, and placing it next to the existing key as an example. The original contours of the key are traced by a machine in order to create a duplicate. Bring your original key if it has scratches. These will be incorporated into the new key.
Mister Minit stores have the specific equipment required to duplicate the key of all automobiles. It is crucial to provide the year and make of your vehicle along with your key or remote so that we can select the appropriate blank for your replacement. Many stores will also program the new key if the vehicle is an auto-start model with a push button.
What equipment do I require?
Modern key blades require precision tooling to ensure the highest quality cut required by modern ignitions. Making a new key for automobiles is more complicated than replicating one already in use. It requires specialized equipment, which can only be found in key cutters equipped with the right tools.
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 1990s to combat the increasing incidence of car theft in Australia. It has since become standard for all new cars that are sold in the present.
This means a spare car key cutting or replacement key will have to be laser cut and then programmed for your specific vehicle which can be a very lengthy and costly process. Fortunately, most Mister Minit locations have the specialist equipment and expertise to do this for you. All you need is the current working key that you want duplicated and, if you can, the year, make and model of your vehicle to help us identify the right code to program your new key.
It may be worth getting an extra key for your push-button start car. The key will come with a key fob that can be programmed separately to the car. The majority of Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a spare key cutting or replacement key. All you need to bring is your car key and, if possible the year, make and models of both keys so we can determine the key that has a transponder chip and get it correctly programmed to your car.
Can I cut my own key?
Many big-box retailers and hardware stores offer key cutting services for a nominal cost. They employ machines that follow the original contours of your key to make an exact copy. This works for older keys that do not have a chip. Modern cars require that the key fob be programmed. This is a difficult task and requires special key cutting equipment and knowledge. This type of work is better suited to locksmiths, who have access to the equipment and tools needed.
You can also visit an area that cuts keys, such as the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient but don't cut every kind of key. Some common keys can be copied, while other specialty keys need to be mailed in for processing. It is not advisable to copy a key with the words "Do Not Duplicate". You'll need to call a professional locksmith if this is the situation.
A locksmith is more convenient when visiting your home or workplace. They can cut a key quickly and reprogram your fob in the event that it is required. This will eliminate the hassle of having to drive to a store and wait 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 area of expertise. Dealerships are big corporations that have strict rules in order to maximize their profits. They report to car companies who then submit quarterly reports to shareholders and investors. These circumstances are not conducive to providing good customer service when cutting car keys.
Where can I have a locksmith cut a key for me?
You can get keys cut (why not find out more) at hardware stores and self-service kiosks to copy keys However, the best place to go is a locksmith firm. They are licensed, skilled and have the equipment necessary to duplicate all types of keys. They can also assist you to program your new car key fob or transponder chip.
The original key is used as a template to cut standard keys. The blank key is positioned on the opposite side, and both keys are simultaneously moved through the machine's specialized cutting blade, creating an exact duplicate of the original. For certain types of keys such as car keys or key fobs, the process takes longer due to the fact that they must be programmed to work with your vehicle.
Certain keys are marked "do duplicate" to stop copies that are not authorized. This is a security measure. This doesn't mean that keys cannot be copied. However, it could take longer since locksmiths have to examine the key to ensure it is not tampered.
Other keys may be restricted and require proof of ownership before they can be cut or copied. This is usually because they have distinctive mechanical features or have a unique shape, and is done to stop them from being used to steal items or gain access into secure locations.
For these special keys, you will have to talk to an experienced locksmith in your area or go to their website to determine if they have the equipment and expertise to cut keys for them. If they do, you will pay a bit more than if you were to get a basic key made at an hardware store or self-service kiosk. However, it's easier and less expensive to replace a lost key.