Five Qualities That People Search For In Every Car Keys Cut
Where to Get Car Keys Cut
It is essential to have your car keys cut. This can save you a lot of money at the dealership. This can also protect you from being stuck in the event that your key is damaged.
Modern keys contain transponders which require programming to function with the vehicle. Your local AutoZone has the capacity to replace these keys for a fractional price.
What kind of key do I require?
There are several different types of keys. The most basic is a traditional key, which isn't encoded or programming and is simply cut-off metal that fits into a lock. Keys of this type are often used in older vehicles.
A four-sided or double-sided key is more secure and is easily identified by having two or four sets of teeth on opposite sides of the blade. These keys are harder to pick and help stop burglaries since they require more strength to open the locks.
Another kind of key is a transponder that has an embedded microchip that is programmed to allow the car to start. This type of key is less likely to be stolen because the key is only compatible with that particular vehicle. Transponder keys can be a bit more expensive than traditional keys or mechanical keys but they offer increased security.
The majority of the time, when you require a replacement key, your local AutoZone store will have the right parts and knowledge to do it quickly. Just give them the year, MAKE, and MODEL and they'll take charge of the rest.
Certain modern vehicles have a remote fob that must be programmed by the car's computer, which requires specialized tools and software. While many people choose to contact their dealership to get this service but it's not always required. You can also search online for aftermarket replacement keys or fobs for a fraction of the price you'd find at a dealership. Before you buy take a look, make sure you are aware that these key fobs can be hacked, so make sure you get a trusted source.
Where can I get a key cut?
Most auto locksmiths are able to cut standard car keys. They will need to know the year, make and model of your vehicle in order to give you a suitable key blank and cut it with precise machinery on site. However, certain modern car keys, such as fobs, have built-in transponder chips which require specialized programming for the specific vehicle. You might be able to purchase these kinds of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores but they won't have the equipment needed to clone or program the chip.
A typical key duplication process for a car key of the traditional type is a partner choosing the appropriate key blank and then putting it in place against your existing key to act as an outline. The initial contours of the key are traced by a machine to make a duplicate. It's best to bring your original key in the event that it has a few small scratches since these will be incorporated into the new key.
Mister Minit stores have the specialist equipment required to duplicate most cars. It is helpful to have the year model, make and year of your vehicle together with your remote fob or key to ensure that we choose the correct blank for your replacement key. Many stores can also help by programming the new key for your vehicle if it's a push button start model.
What equipment do I require?
Modern ignitions require specialized tools to ensure a flawless cut. The process of cutting a new car key is much more complex than simply copying an existing one and requires specialised equipment that is only found at authorised locksmiths, key cutters, or hardware stores with the right tools to handle the task.
The key fobs on the majority of vehicles sold in Australia are equipped with a transponder which must be programmed for your vehicle. This is a security feature that was introduced in the 90's to fight increasing car theft in Australia and has since become the standard for all new vehicles sold today.
It can be a lengthy and expensive process that can be costly and time-consuming. A replacement or spare key has to be laser cut, and then programmed for your specific vehicle. Fortunately, the majority of Mister Minit locations have the specialist equipment and expertise to do this for you and all you need is your current working key that you want duplicated and, if you can the year, year of manufacture and model of your vehicle so that we can identify the correct code to program your new key.
If you have a brand newer car, it could be worth having an extra key cut for your push button start car with an electronic key fob (which can be programmed to the vehicle separately). The majority of Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a spare or replacement key. All you need is your car key and, if possible, the year, makes and models of both keys, so that we can identify which key is equipped with a transponder chip and be able to program it correctly to your vehicle.
Can I cut my own keys?
Many hardware stores or big box retailers provide a key-cutting service for a fee. They employ a machine to track the contours of your original key in order to produce a exact replica. This works for keys older than without a chip in them. Modern automobiles require that a key fob be programmed. This is a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and expertise. Locksmiths are more equipped to handle this kind of job as they have the necessary equipment and tools.
You can also go to a kiosk that cuts keys, like the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient but don't cut every kind of key. Certain keys that are common can be copied. Other keys with specializations must be mailed to be processed. Make sure that you aren't trying to create a duplicate of a key that has "Do Not Duplicate" on it. If this is the case, you'll have to contact a locksmith assistance.
A locksmith can also offer the convenience of coming directly to your workplace or home. They can cut keys quickly and reprogram your fob should it be required. You will not have to travel to the store and stand in a long line.
Dealerships are familiar with cars, but they don't necessarily know anything about keys. Key-cutting isn't their area of expertise. They have their own interior technology and mechanics. Dealerships are big corporations that adhere to strict guidelines in order to maximize their profits. They report to car companies who report to shareholders and investors who anticipate monetary gains each quarter. These circumstances are not conducive to good customer service when cutting car keys.
Where can I have a locksmith cut me a key?
Locksmith companies are the best option. You can also have keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are licensed, experienced and have the equipment necessary to duplicate most types. They can also assist you to program your new car key fob or transponder chip.
Most standard keys are cut using a specific key duplicator, with the original key acting as the template. The blank key is positioned on the opposite side, and both keys are simultaneously moved through the machine's specialized cutting blade, creating a duplicate of the original. For certain types of keys, like car keys and key fobs, the process takes longer since they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
Certain keys are marked "do duplicate" to protect against copies made by unauthorized copyists. laser key cutting is a measure to protect. This doesn't mean that the key cannot be copied. However, it could take longer since locksmiths have to examine the key to ensure it is not tampered.
Certain keys are limited and require proof of ownership to copy or cut them. This is typically because they have unique mechanical features or have a peculiar shape and is intended to prevent them from being used to steal items or get into secure locations.
For these specialty keys, you will have to talk to an experienced locksmith in your area or go to their website to see whether they have the tools and knowledge to cut keys for them. If they do, you should expect to pay a little more than having a standard key cut at the hardware store or self-service kiosks, but it will be cheaper and less stressful than having to replace the car key that was lost.