Where to Get Car Key Cut
A professional service for cutting car keys ensures a smooth start and prevents any potential problems. They make use of advanced machines that guarantee accuracy, and they provide warranties on their services.
The majority of modern cars require a special transponder chip in the key fob in order to function effectively. These are highly sophisticated electronic components that can only be programmed by the dealership or an automotive locksmith.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys or the fob for your key breaks the first thing you think of is be to go to your auto dealer. In the end, the dealership is the official dealer for your vehicle and should be able to provide you with a replacement key. However, you could be shocked to learn the cost of their services could be. There are other ways to save money on key replacements.
Car dealerships may offer a variety of car keys, however they are more expensive. They may also not be able to make your specific type of key. Certain newer vehicles require laser-cut keys, which requires special equipment to duplicate, program, and create. This is a service that most locksmiths do not offer and have to outsource.
Home improvement stores that offer key-making services are an excellent alternative to dealerships. Most hardware stores have a large variety of blanks for various types of car keys, so they usually can meet most needs. In addition, they typically have lower costs than dealerships.
In addition to offering a wide variety of car key blanks, home improvement stores also have tools and expertise to create replacement keys and key fobs. They can create laser-cut keys that are harder to duplicate than traditional metal ones. They can also help reprogram your fobs, if necessary.
Auto parts stores such as Advanced Auto and NAPA can also produce replacement car keys. They have the necessary equipment to make standard house keys, transponder keys and key fobs. However there are some locations that don't make these keys, so you'll need to call ahead before visiting a specific location.
Some big-box stores, like Rite Aid, also have key cutting car-making services. In fact, you can have keys for your car or a key fob for less than $15 at many locations! These stores offer a wide variety of blanks available and can even cut and program the key for you. This is only possible if the original key has a microchip and can be programmed into the car's computer system.
Locksmiths
It's never a good idea to lose your car keys. If you lose your car keys the best thing to do is to call an emergency key cutting (navigate to this site) locksmith. They will quickly cut and replace your keys. In a lot of areas, automotive locksmiths offer 24 hour service to help out when you're in a pinch. They can cut any key, which includes transponder keys as well as standard keys. They also handle VAT systems on newer automobiles.
Most AutoZone locations have the ability to change your car key. The process is simple: A representative selects the right key blank based on your year, make, and model. A machine then trace the original contours of the current key. This ensures that your new key will fit perfectly. If your key has a computer chip built into the fob, it needs to be programmed.
Certain auto locksmiths have the technology to reprogram your key at a much lower cost than the dealership. They can also offer faster turnaround times, which is great if you are in need of assistance in a hurry. A locksmith from outside might not be able work on the latest vehicles, such as those with smart keys.
The average car key costs $10 to cut at Walmart and is therefore an affordable alternative if you just need an original key duplicated. Remember that keys made by machines are less likely than hand-made keys to last and weather over time. If you wish to have your spare keys last a long time it's a better idea to hire the help of an emergency locksmith.
Certain cars today have a smart key that activates the car's proximity sensors. They are the most convenient and popular keys, but also the hardest to duplicate if you don't have the original. Most automotive locksmiths will duplicate a smart-key however, you must provide evidence of ownership, like a registration certificate or title or purchase documentation. You may also need to pay for a tow truck to transport your vehicle back to the dealership.
Online Key-by-VIN Suppliers
If you are unable to reach the dealership or locksmith, online key-by-VIN suppliers offer a convenient method of making an extra car key. These businesses use the VIN number to create keys that are the original from the factory. They are less expensive than a locksmith or dealer but you'll need an automotive technician to connect the key to your vehicle.
Most cars from 1990 and up come with a transponder chip in the key that must be programmed to the vehicle to function. It is essential to use the car's keys code rather than the VIN when purchasing an online key from a key-by VIN provider. If you decide to use the VIN it's likely that the key won't work if your ignition has ever been changed or the door locks have been changed.
It's also important to keep in mind that even though online key-by-VIN providers can cut keys, they cannot send you a key that's programmed to your vehicle. This task will still require an auto technician, so make sure you factor this cost into your budget.
Dealers, locksmiths, and online key-by-VIN suppliers are the clear winners when it comes to accuracy. All of them cut keys using codes, resulting in a genuine OEM key. Big box stores however utilize an automated machine to cut their keys. The machine may become less precise over time and could result in a key which doesn't perform as it should.
Getting a key by VIN from a trusted locksmith key cutting or dealer will be cheaper than buying one from a website. The majority of online resellers come from overseas and use poor quality components and construction methods. You won't receive any assistance or warranty if the key fails.
Keeping a supply of remotes, keys, and transponders on hand for each model of car you service is a necessity. You can save time and money by using the OEM websites of manufacturers to locate car key codes that are based on VIN or make/model.
Big Box Stores
Online shopping is so convenient that you may not even want to leave your home. However there are many different shopping experiences that are all created equal. Some things, like cutting your car keys are best done in person rather than clicking with a mouse. There are a variety of big box stores that are equipped and know how to get your key copied properly. These stores may not meet the standards of a locksmith or key-by-VIN service online, but they are convenient and cost-effective.
One of the most popular locations to get your key cut is at an auto parts store. If you have a standard key that does not include a chip, this is a quick and easy process. These stores have key cutting machines that can replicate the contours of your key in just a few minutes.
Another common option is at an upscale chain store for hardware like Ace Hardware. These chains have key cutting machines and can copy most types. However, if you have a modern key that is part of a mobile key cutting service fob or has a chip in it they will not be able to assist.
Some of the more specialized hardware stores, such as Menards in the Midwest and Home Depot nationwide, have the capability to do chip-related key copies. But, you must call ahead to your local store to see if they can do this type of key before you head over.
It is recommended to visit your local AutoZone when you have keys that are high-security. AutoZone stores have the tools, knowledge, and technology to duplicate all types of high-security keys, including those that are integrated into a key fob. A staff member will select the proper key blank for your year, make, and model and use a key cutting machine to copy the original contours of the current key. This will take a few more minutes than a standard one, but it will give you peace of mind knowing that your keys are secure if it gets lost or stolen.