Where to Get Car Keys Cut
It is essential to have your car keys cut. This will save you a significant amount of money at the dealership. It will also prevent you from being stuck in the event that your key is damaged.
Modern keys come with transponders that must be programmed to be compatible with your specific vehicle. Luckily, your local AutoZone has the equipment to make these key replacements at only a fraction of the cost.
What type of key will I require?
There are several kinds of keys. The most basic key is the standard key. It doesn't have any encryption, and is just a piece of metal that fits inside a lock. These keys are most commonly found 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 the blade. These keys are more difficult to find and could help prevent break-ins because they require extra strength to open the lock.
Another type of key is a transponder, which contains a microchip that is programmed to allow the car to start. This technology helps reduce theft since the key can only be used on that particular vehicle. Transponder keys can be slightly more expensive than mechanical keys or traditional keys, but they provide greater security.
If you are looking to replace keys and you need to replace a key, the AutoZone store closest to you will usually have the required parts and know-how. You just need to provide them with the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they will take care of it for you.
Certain modern vehicles have a remote control that must be programmed into the car's computer to function. This requires special tools and software. Many people call their dealer for this service, but it is not always necessary. You can also search the internet for replacement keys/fobs that are available at much less cost than you would pay at a dealer. But before you do this it is important to remember that these keyfobs could be stolen, so be sure to go with a trusted source.
Where can I get a key cut?
The majority of auto locksmiths are able to cut standard car keys. They'll need the year, make and model of your vehicle to provide you with the correct key blank and cut it with precision machinery on-site. Some modern car keys, such as fobs, have transponder chips that require specific programming. Home Depot and similar stores may be able to copy the keys, but they don't have the equipment needed to copy the chip or program it.
The standard procedure for duplicating keys for an auto key of the traditional type involves a person selecting the correct blank key, and positioning it next to your existing key to serve as a template. The original contours of the key are traced by a machine in order to create duplicates. Bring your original key if it has small scratches. These will be incorporated into the new key.
Mister Minit stores are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate keys on most automobiles. It is crucial to provide the year and make of your vehicle, together with your key or remote so that we can choose the correct blank for your replacement. Many stores can assist with the additional step of programming the new key into your vehicle, if it's an auto start model with a push button.
What equipment do I require?
Modern key blades require precise tools to guarantee the perfect cut required by modern ignitions. Cutting a new key for automobiles is more complicated than copying one that already exists. It requires special equipment that is only available in key cutters with the right tools.
Most cars sold in Australia come with a transponder chip embedded in the key fob. It needs to be programmed to your vehicle before it can be used. This is a security feature that was introduced in the 1990's to combat increasing car theft in Australia and has since become the standard for all new cars currently sold.
It can be a lengthy and costly process that can be costly and time-consuming. A spare or replacement key has to be laser cut and then programmed to match your specific car. Fortunately most Mister Minit locations have the specialist equipment and expertise to handle this for you. All you need is the current working key you want duplicated and, if you can, the year, make and model of your car to help us identify the right code to program your new key.
If you have a brand newer mobile car key cutting near me, it could be worthwhile to have a spare key cut to your car with a push button start feature with the key fob (which can be programmed for the vehicle independently). Finding a replacement or spare key cut and programmed is a quick and easy process at most Mister Minit stores. All you have to bring is your car keys and, if it is possible the year, make and models of both keys, so that we can identify which key is equipped with a transponder chip and get it correctly programmed to your car.
Can I cut my own keys?
Many big-box retailers and stores offer a key cutting car key service for a nominal cost. They employ an instrument that follows the original contours of the key to create an exact copy. This is applicable to older keys without a chip in them. Modern cars require that the automotive key cutting near me fob be programmed. This is a difficult task and requires special equipment and skills. This type of work is better suited to locksmiths, who have access to the tools and equipment needed.
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. Certain keys that are common can be copied. Other specialty keys must be mailed to be processed. It is not recommended to duplicate a key that has the words "Do Not Duplicate". If this is the case, you'll have to call a locksmith for assistance.
A locksmith can be more convenient by visiting your home or workplace. They can cut keys and even modify your fob, if required. You won't have to go to the store and wait in an endless line.
Dealerships are experts on cars, but they don't necessarily know anything about keys. Key-cutting may not be their expertise. They have their own internal technology and mechanics. Dealerships are big corporations which operate with strict guidelines to support their bottom line. They report to car companies who in turn, report to investors and shareholders who expect to earn money every quarter. This is not conducive to providing high-quality customer service, especially when it is time to cut car keys.
Where can I get a locksmith cut me a key?
You can get keys cut at hardware stores and self-service key copy kiosks however the best option is a locksmith business. 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 standard keys are cut by a key duplicator machine, using the original key serving as the template. A blank key is positioned on the opposite side, and both keys move through the machine's specialized cutter making a duplicate of the original key. For some mobile key cutting near me types 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 a "do not duplicate" mark on them, but this is merely an additional security measure to stop unauthorized copying. It doesn't mean that the key can't be copied however it could take more time because locksmiths will need to examine the key and ensure that it's not altered.
Some keys are restricted and require proof of ownership in order to copy or cut them. This is usually due to the fact that they have unique mechanical characteristics or have a peculiar shape and is done to prevent them from being used to steal items or gain access into secured locations.
For these keys, you will have to talk to a local locksmith or visit their website to see whether they have the equipment and knowledge to cut them. If they do make them, you'll have to pay a bit more than when you get an ordinary key cut at the hardware store or self-service kiosk. However, it's more affordable and less stressful to replace keys that have been lost.