Where to Get Car Keys Cut
It is essential to have your car keys cut. This will save you a lot of money at the dealership. It also prevents you from getting stuck without a working key.
Modern keys come with transponders that need to be programmed to match the specific vehicle you have. Your local AutoZone is equipped to replace these keys for an affordable cost.
What kind of key will I require?
There are a few kinds of keys. The most basic type of key is the standard key. It does not include any encoding, and it is merely a piece of metal that fits into locks. These keys are commonly used in older cars.
A key with four sides or a double-sided side is a more secure option and is easily identified by having two or four teeth on the opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to pick and can aid in preventing burglaries because they require extra strength to open the lock.
Another type of key is a transponder key, which contains a microchip which is programmed to allow the car to start. This technology helps reduce theft because the cheapest key cutting near me can only be used with the vehicle in question. Transponder keys are a little more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, but they do provide additional security.
When you need to replace a key, the AutoZone store nearest you will have the necessary parts and know-how. You just need to provide them with the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they can handle it for you.
Certain modern vehicles have remote controls that need to be programmed into the car's computer in order to work. This requires special tools and software. Many people prefer to contact their dealership for this service however, it's not always needed. You can also search online for replacement keys and fobs from the aftermarket at a lower cost than you would purchase from a dealer. However, before you make this purchase be aware that these keyfobs can be stolen, so be sure to go with a trusted source.
Where can I get a key cutting locksmith near me cut for me?
Most auto locksmiths are able cut standard keys for cars. They'll need to know the year and make of your vehicle in order to provide you with the correct key blank and cut it using precision machinery on-site. Some modern car keys, such as fobs, also come with transponder chips that require specialized programming. 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 standard procedure for duplicating keys for a traditional auto key 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 then traced by a machine in order to create a duplicate. Bring your original key if it has any small scratches. These will be incorporated into the new key.
Mister Minit stores have the special equipment needed to duplicate the keys of most automobiles. It is helpful to have the year model, make and year of your car in hand together with the key or remote fob to ensure that we choose the appropriate blank for your replacement key. Many stores will also program the new key if the vehicle is an auto-start model with a push button.
What equipment will I require?
Modern key blades require specialised precision tooling to ensure the best cut that is required by modern ignitions. Making a new key to automobiles is more complicated than replicating one already in use. It requires specialized equipment that is only available in key cutters with the correct tools.
The key fobs on the majority of automobiles sold in Australia come with a transponder, which is programmed to your vehicle. This security feature was introduced in the 1990s to combat the rising rate of theft from cars in Australia. It has since become standard for all new vehicles sold today.
It can be a lengthy and costly process. A replacement or spare key has to be laser cut, and then programmed for your particular vehicle. Fortunately most Mister Minit locations have the specialist equipment and expertise to do this for you. All you need is the working key you wish to have duplicated, and if it is possible the year, year of manufacture and model of your car so that we can identify the right code to program your new key.
If you have a brand newer car, it could be worth having a spare car key cutting key cut for your car with a push button start feature that includes an electronic key fob (which can be programmed for the vehicle 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, and if you can, the year, make and model of both keys, so we can identify which key contains transponder technology and program it to your vehicle.
Can I get a key cut by myself?
Many big-box retailers and hardware stores offer a key cutting service for a small fee. They make use of machines that follow the original contours of your existing key to create an exact duplicate. This method works for keys older than not have a chip. Modern automobiles require that a key fob be programmed. This is a challenging task that requires specialized equipment and knowledge. Locksmiths are better equipped to tackle this kind of job as they have the necessary equipment and tools.
You can also go to an area that cuts keys, such as the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, but do not cut every type of key cut service. Certain keys that are common can be copied. Other specialty keys must be mailed to be processed. You should not try to copy a key containing the words "Do Not Duplicate". If this is the case, you'll need contact a locksmith for help.
A locksmith can also offer the convenience of arriving at your office or home. They can cut a key and even reprogram your fob if necessary. You won't have to go to the store and wait in an interminable line.
Dealerships are experts in cars however, they are not necessarily experts in keys. The process of cutting keys isn't their area of expertise. They have their own interior technology and mechanics. Dealerships are big corporations that have strict rules in order to maximize their profits. They report to car companies who report quarterly to shareholders and investors. These conditions are not conducive to providing good customer service when it comes to cutting car keys.
Where can I get a locksmith cut me a key?
You can get keys cut at hardware stores and self-service kiosks for copying keys However, the best option is a locksmith business. They are licensed and experienced and have the necessary equipment to duplicate all kinds of keys. They can also help you program your new car key fob or transponder chip.
Most standard keys are cut using a special key duplicator machine, with the original key serving as the template. A blank key is positioned on the opposite side, and both keys move simultaneously through the machine's specialized cutter and create a copy of the original key. For certain types of keys such as car keys or key fobs, the process can take 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. However, this doesn't mean keys cannot be copied. However, it could take longer as locksmiths have to examine the key to ensure that it's not damaged.
Some keys are restricted and require proof of ownership in order to cut or copy them. This is usually because they have unique mechanical characteristics or are a strange shape, and is done to stop them from being used to steal items or get into secure areas.
For these specialty keys, you'll need to speak with the local locksmith or go to their website to determine whether they have the equipment and know-how to cut keys. If they do, expect to pay a little more than a standard key cut at a hardware store or at self-service kiosks, however it's cheaper and less stressful than replacing the car key that was lost.