Where to Get Car Keys Cut
Getting your car keys cut is a crucial service that can save you from a huge expense at the dealer. This will also keep you from being left stranded in the event that your key is damaged.
Modern keys cutting near me include transponders that must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle. Your local AutoZone has the capacity to replace these keys at an affordable cost.
What type of key will I require?
There are many 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 a lock. Keys of this type are often used in older cars.
A key with four sides or a double-sided side is more secure and is easily identified by having two or four sets of teeth on the opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to pick, and they can be used to prevent break-ins as they require more strength to open locks.
Another kind of key is a transponder key that is equipped with an embedded microchip that is programmed to turn on the car. This technology helps reduce theft since the key can only be used on the specific vehicle. Transponder keys are a little more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, but they provide additional security.
Most times, when you require a new key you can find your local AutoZone store has the necessary parts and knowledge to do it quickly. All you have to do is give them the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they will take care of it for you.
Certain modern vehicles have remote controls that have to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle to function. This requires specialized software and tools. Many people prefer to contact their dealership for assistance however, it's not always needed. You can also search on the internet for replacement keys/fobs that are available at a much lower cost to get car key cut than what the price you'd pay at a dealer. Before you buy make a purchase, you should be aware that these keyfobs are hackable, so make sure you get a trusted source.
Where can I get a key cut for me?
Most auto locksmiths can cut standard car keys. To give you the right key blank, they will need to know the year and make, as well as the model. They can then cut it on the spot using precision machinery. However, some modern car keys, like fobs, also have built-in transponder chips which require special programming for the particular vehicle. You may be able to get 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 process for duplicating keys for a standard car key is a partner selecting the correct blank and positioning it against your current key to serve as an outline. The key's original contours are then traced by a machine in order to create a duplicate. It is recommended to bring your original key in the event that it has a few tiny scratches as these will be incorporated into the new key.
Mister Minit stores are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate keys on most automobiles. It is helpful to have the year, make and model of your car in hand along with the remote fob or key to ensure that we choose the appropriate blank for your replacement key. Many stores will also program the new key if your car is an auto-start model with a push button.
What equipment do I require?
Modern key blades require specialised precision tooling to ensure the perfect cut required by modern ignitions. Cutting a new key for automobiles is more complicated than making copies of one that is already in place. It requires special equipment that can only be found in key cutters equipped with the correct tools.
The key fobs on the majority of automobiles sold in Australia are equipped with a transponder, which must be programmed for your vehicle. This is a security measure that was introduced in the 1990's to combat the rising theft of cars in Australia and has since become the norm for all new vehicles sold today.
This means that a spare or replacement key needs to be laser cut and then programmed to your specific car which can be a time-consuming and expensive procedure. Fortunately most Mister Minit locations have the expert equipment and experience to handle this for you. All you need is the working key that you want duplicated, and if it is possible the year, make and model of your car to help us identify the right code to program your new key.
If you own a newer vehicle, it might be beneficial to have a spare key cut to your push button start car that includes the key fob (which can be programmed to the car independently). The majority of Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a replacement or spare key. You will need your car key cut service, and if you can, the year, make and model of both keys, so that we can determine which key has a transponder and program it to your vehicle.
Can I cut my own key?
Many big-box retailers and hardware stores provide key cutting services for a small fee. They employ a machine to track the contours of your original key in order to produce a exact replica. This works for older keys without a chip in them. Modern automobiles require that the key fob be programmed. This is a complicated task that requires specialized equipment and expertise. Locksmiths are better equipped to handle this type of task, since they are equipped with the required equipment and tools.
You can also go to a kiosk that cuts keys, like the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, but they don't cut every kind of key. Keys that are commonly used can be copied. Other keys that are special have to be mailed in order to be processed. Be sure you're not trying to make a copy of a key that says "Do Not Duplicate" on it. If this is the case, you'll have to contact a locksmith assistance.
A locksmith may also provide an easier option by arriving at your home or office. They can cut keys and even reprogram your fob if necessary. You will not have to drive to the store and wait in an endless line.
Dealerships are experts on cars however they don't know everything about keys. Key-cutting isn't their area of expertise. They have their own internal technology and mechanics. Dealerships are large companies that operate according to strict guidelines to support their bottom lines. They report to car companies who in turn, report to shareholders and investors that expect monetary gains every quarter. This is not conducive to providing excellent customer service, particularly when it comes time to cut the car keys.
Where can I have a locksmith cut a key for me?
Locksmith services are the best choice. You can also purchase keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are licensed, skilled and have the tools to duplicate all types of keys. They can also help you program your new car key fob or transponder chip.
The original key can be used as a template to cut most standard keys. The blank key is placed on the opposite side and both keys are pushed through the machine's specialized cutting blade, resulting in a duplicate of the original. Certain key types, like fobs and car keys need a longer process because they need to be programmed to your vehicle.
Certain keys are marked "do duplicate" to stop copies that are not authorized. This is a measure to protect. This doesn't mean that the key cannot be copied. However, it could take longer because locksmiths have to examine the key to ensure that it's not damaged.
Certain keys are restricted and require proof of ownership to copy or cut them. This is usually due to the fact that 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 areas.
You'll need to call the local locksmith to determine whether they are able to cut these specialty keys. You can also check their website to determine whether the locksmith is equipped with the required equipment and know-how. If they do, you should expect to pay a little more than getting a basic key cut at an hardware store or self-service kiosks, however it will be cheaper and less stress-inducing than having to replace a lost car key.