4 Dirty Little Secrets About The Getting A New Car Key Cut Industry
Getting a New Car Key Cut
A locksmith for your vehicle can save you money if you compare it to a dealer. They can create replacement keys for all vehicle types and models, including fobs that require programming.
Laser-cut keys are more robust with less grooves. They also have transponder chips that require programming into your car. This is more complex and takes longer, but can still be cheaper than visiting an auto dealer.
What Kind of Keys Do I Have to have?
When you are replacing keys for your car the type of keys you have is a major factor. If your car is equipped with a traditional key and is older, you can find an alternative in a variety of hardware or locksmith stores. These keys are easy to duplicate and come with an easy, precise ridge cut into the side.
Most modern vehicles use electronic keys that have a built-in transponder chip which transmits a signal the vehicle when it's inserted into the ignition. This system is designed to block unauthorised users from starting your car or opening the doors. It's more costly to replace a smart lock if you lose it since they require an electronic chip. It's recommended to have a spare key available and leave one with a family member or acquaintance in the event that you lose the original.
Depending on the model and make, you might not be in a position to replace the smart key that's missing using an aftermarket replacement. If your car does not have this type of technology, you'll require contacting a locksmith or visit the dealership. You will need a photo ID and proof of ownership to purchase the new car key. They will then have to program the key to your vehicle's computer.
This process can take up to an hour. It is much more expensive than an ordinary copy of keys. A laser-cut key fob can cost between $50 to $100.
While you wait for your new key to be made, try not to be too worried about losing it. You should always keep an extra key in your pocket, or with a trusted friend. Keep your eye on the keychain when it moves.
Think about purchasing an aftermarket key online if you wish to save money. You can usually find these keys for about 75 % less than what the dealer would charge. They'll still have to be cut and programmed for the specific vehicle you own, however it is important to call around for the best prices in your region.
How long will it take?
If you're one of those who is prone to losing or forgetting your keys it's the right time to buy a spare. A spare key will save you the hassle of having to pay for a locksmith or tow to the dealership when you get locked out and require a replacement key. It can take anywhere from several minutes to a few hours to make a replacement key.
It could cost you upwards of $200 to get a replacement key if you lose the sole key. You'll have to pay for having your car towed by a dealer who will order and program the new key. Additionally, you will be charged for the labor cost. A spare key now is much better than having to pay for an upgrade later.
A hardware store or locksmith can cut traditional car keys in a short time. They usually have slightly larger shanks and have less grooves carved out than laser-cut keys. If you require an replacement for your key fob, it's likely to take longer since they need to be programmed using the vehicle's computer. car keys cut and programmed of the time an auto locksmith with a good reputation can do this. It's best to contact them ahead of time to inquire about their prices and the time it will take to complete the task.
At all Mister Minit locations we have the equipment and expertise to duplicate your existing car keys or fobs. You'll be required to bring the original key you'd like duplicated as well as the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car to help us determine what kind of transponder chip your key is equipped with. The year model, make and year will also allow us to determine the type of key fob you require.
If you're worried about losing your original key fob, you can also visit the dealer who manufactures the car model you use. If you require a key fob replacement this will take a little longer since the dealer will need to program it using your car's computer. They'll need proof of ownership, like your title or registration documents to do this. You can also get an extra key for your third car and reprogramme it yourself. You'll have to check your owner's manual to learn how this is done since it varies from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Are there any restrictions on making a key that is not the original?
If you own an older vehicle you could get a standard metal key made by an auto locksmith, or in some cases, a hardware store. This is because older vehicles do not have specific electronic components such as chips. Newer cars may use transponder keys, which require a special laser-cutting machine called a sidewinder in order to duplicate the key. Additionally, these keys may have chip-programmed circuits that prevent your car from starting without the original key in close proximity to the ignition.
You'll have to visit a dealer if your car has an advanced key. A replacement key that is not the original one will be made. This could be expensive, especially if you have to transport your car to the dealer to program the key.
A cheaper option is to call a locksmith, which can usually cut and program an exact duplicate of your key for about half the cost of an auto dealer. This is something you should do prior to losing your keys. It will save you money in the future if you can't locate keys.
Can I get a Key made at AutoZone?
While modern vehicles have sophisticated security systems, they still rely on keys to unlock the car and start it. If you lose your key replacing it isn't as simple as stopping by the self-service kiosk at the mall and cutting it. Instead, modern keys for cars must be programmed to work with the security system in your vehicle. They must contain a transponder chip that is unique to the vehicle you own.
Fortunately, a lot of AutoZone locations have the tools and expertise to provide these services. If you have a key fob, or even an old-fashioned key associate at the store, they can help you program it to your car on the spot.
The basic process for cutting a car key involves using a machine to copy the contours of a working original key. A key that is already in use is placed on one side of the duplication machine and a blank key on the other side, and an instrument designed for this purpose holds them in alignment. The machine moves the blank key forward and back and cuts out the desired shape. The result is an original key that matches exactly the dimensions of the original.
The process of making an extra key for your car may be more complicated. The year, make, and model of your car will determine what kind of key you own, which will need to be cut by a professional locksmith in order to work in your car. There are locksmiths who will do the work for less than dealerships. Make sure to verify whether the locksmith is an associate member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
If you have an old-fashioned key, you may be able to purchase replacements online for cheaper than going to the dealer to have them cut and programmed for you. You can find them by searching "(your year and year of manufacture)" on websites designed specifically for this purpose.
If you have a more complex key or a key fob, you'll likely need go to the dealer or a locksmith to have it repaired. You can have a key made by providing your VIN and proof ownership, but the programming will cost you. The best method to avoid these expenses is to get an extra key created today, so that you can use it in case in the event of an emergency.