How Car Keys Cut Has Become The Most Sought-After Trend In 2023
Where to Get Car Keys Cut
Getting your car keys cut is an essential service that could save you from a significant expense at the dealership. It will also prevent you from being stuck in the event that your key is damaged.
Modern keys have transponders that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Luckily the local AutoZone has the tools to produce these key replacements for less than the cost.
What type of key do I need?
There are several kinds of keys. The most basic key is the standard key. It does not have any encryption, and is just a piece metal that fits inside a lock. Keys like these are typically found in older automobiles.
A double-sided or four-sided key is more secure and is easily identified by having two or four sets of teeth on the opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to pick and help prevent break-ins as they require more strength to open locks.
Transponder keys are a second type of key. They contain an embedded microchip which is programmed to begin your car. cost to get a key cut reduces the risk of theft since the key is only compatible with that specific vehicle. Transponder keys are a little more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, however they provide additional security.
Most of the time, when you need a replacement key you can find your local AutoZone store will have the right parts and know-how to replace it immediately. You just need to give them the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they will handle it for you.
Some modern vehicles have remote fobs that have to be programmed using the vehicle's computer to work and requires special tools and software. Many people ask their dealer to get this service, but it's not always required. You can also search the internet for aftermarket replacement keys/fobs available at a lower cost than you'd pay at a dealer. Before you do take a look, make sure you are aware that these keys can be hacked, so make sure you get a trusted source.
Where can I get a key cut?
The majority of auto locksmiths can cut standard car keys. They'll need the year, make and model of your vehicle in order to provide you with a proper key blank and cut it with high-quality machinery on site. Some modern keys for cars, like fobs, have transponder chips that require special programming. You might be able to purchase these kinds of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores however they do not have the equipment to duplicate or program the chip.
A typical key duplication procedure for a standard car key is a partner choosing the appropriate key blank and positioning it against the key you have already used as an example. The machine then follows the original contours of the key to create the duplicate. Bring your original key if it has scratches. These will be added to your new key.
Mister Minit stores are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate keys for a variety of cars. It is essential to know the year and make of your vehicle along with your key or remote so that we can choose the appropriate blank for your replacement. Many stores can also program the new key if the vehicle is an auto-start model with a push button.
What equipment do I require?
Modern key blades require specialised precision tooling to ensure the highest quality cut required by modern ignitions. Making a new key to automobiles is more complicated than making copies of one that is already in place. It requires specialised equipment that is only available in key cutters with the correct tools.
The key fobs of most automobiles sold in Australia are equipped 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 a standard feature for all new vehicles sold today.
This means a spare or replacement key will need to be cut using lasers and programmed to your specific car which can be a costly and time-consuming process. Fortunately, most Mister Minit locations have the specialist equipment and expertise to complete this task for you and all you need is your current working key that you want duplicated and, if you can, the year, make and model of your vehicle to help us identify the correct code to program your new key.
If you have a newer vehicle, it might be beneficial to have a spare key cut to your car's push button start that includes an electronic key fob (which can be programmed to the vehicle separately). Getting a spare or replacement key cut and programmed is a simple and simple process at many Mister Minit stores. You'll need your car key, and if possible the year the make and model of both keys, so we can determine which key has transponder and then program it to your vehicle.
Can I cut my own key?
Many big-box stores and hardware stores provide key cutting services for a small cost. They make use of a machine that tracks the contours of your original key in order to make a precise replica. This works for older keys with no chip. Modern cars require that the key fob be programmed. This is a challenging task that requires specialized equipment and expertise. This type of job is best to locksmiths, who have access to the equipment and tools needed.
You can also visit the kiosk that cuts keys, such as the one operated by KeyMe. These are convenient, but they do not cut all kinds of keys. Keys that are commonly used can be copied. Other specialty keys must be sent to be processed. You should not try to duplicate a key that has the words "Do Not Duplicate". You'll need to contact an expert locksmith in this situation.
A locksmith may also provide the convenience of visiting your workplace or home. They can quickly cut a key and even change the fob's settings if needed. This will avoid the inconvenience of having to drive to a store and wait in line.
Dealerships are familiar with cars but they don't know anything about keys. They have their own mechanics and interior technology experts but cutting keys is not their field of expertise. Dealerships are big corporations that adhere to strict guidelines to maximize their profits. They report to car companies who then provide quarterly reports to investors and shareholders. These conditions do not lend themselves to a good customer experience when it comes to cutting keys to cars.
Where can I get a locksmith cut me a key?
Keys can be cut at hardware stores or self-service kiosks to copy keys however the best option is a locksmith business. They are licensed and experienced and have the tools to duplicate all kinds of keys. They can also assist you to program your new car key fob, or transponder chip.
The original key can be used as a template to cut the majority of standard keys. A blank key is positioned on the opposite side and both keys are moved across the cutter's specialized cutting machine, creating a copy of the original key. For some key types such as car keys and key fobs, the process takes longer because they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
Certain keys are marked "do duplicate" to stop copies that are not authorized. This is a measure to protect. This does not mean the key can't be copied however it could take longer as a locksmith will have to look over the key to ensure that it's not altered.
Other keys could be restricted and require proof of ownership before they are cut or copied. This is usually because they have distinctive mechanical features or have a unique shape, and is done to ensure that they are not used to steal items or gain access into secured locations.
You'll need to contact an area locksmith to find out if they can cut these keys. You can also check their website to check if the locksmith has the required equipment and know-how. If they can make them, you'll have to be charged a little more than if you were to get an ordinary key cut at the hardware store or self-service kiosk. But, it's cheaper and less stressful to replace the key that has been lost.